‘Tis the season for colder weather. And with it comes health issues you may not typically experience during warmer months. At Omnia Health, we understand the importance of providing thorough, comprehensive care. This means taking every aspect of your well being into consideration. One component that may often be overlooked is your skin. Various skin conditions are more common in the winter due to the cold, dry air, indoor heating, and reduced humidity. In addition to everyday dryness, here are some of the most common skin issues people experience during this festive time of year.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Winter exacerbates eczema by drying out the skin, which can trigger flare-ups. This skin condition is often linked to genetic factors and environmental triggers — such as winter. This season is known to exacerbate eczema by drying out the skin, triggering flare-ups.
Symptoms include:
- Red, inflamed patches of skin
- Dryness
- Iitching
- And sometimes blistering or scaling
Moisturizing frequently, using fragrance-free products, and avoiding known triggers (such as certain fabrics or detergents) are the best forms of prevention.
Psoriasis
While psoriasis is a chronic condition, the cold, dry weather can worsen flare-ups. It leads to the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in thick, scaly patches. Although the rash can appear anywhere, it is typically found on the elbows, knees, scalp, or lower back.
Did you know? Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that’s not contagious. It’s estimated to affect more than 7.5 million adults in the U.S.
Source: https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/
Prevention includes moisturizing regularly, having a doctor prescribe medicated creams, and using a humidifier to keep the air moist.
Rosacea
Cold weather is not a friend of rosacea, a condition characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps on the face. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), Women are more likely to develop rosacea than men. However, when men do get it, it tends to be more severe.
In order to keep flare-ups under control, it’s wise to avoid extreme temperatures when possible, wear a scarf to protect the face, and use gentle skincare products to reduce irritation.
Seborrheic Dermatitis (Dandruff)
This condition causes flaky, scaly skin on the scalp and other oily areas of the body. Sometimes, symptoms can also include redness around the eyebrows, nose, or ears. Winter dryness can exacerbate seborrheic dermatitis,which can be concerning as more severe cases may lead to the immunodeficiency of affected skin, increasing the risk for infections.
You should know: Seborrheic dermatitis is not precancerous and does not increase your chance of getting skin cancer. Another common misconception is that this chronic skin condition leads to hair loss.
In order to prevent flare-ups, try anti-fungal or medicated shampoos, keep the scalp moisturized, and avoid hot showers that can further dry out the scalp.
Keratosis Pilaris
This common condition, often referred to as “chicken skin,” can worsen during the winter due to dryness. It results in small, rough bumps on the arms, thighs, and sometimes the face. This is a completely harmless and non-contagious condition that is quite common and often hereditary, affecting up to 80 percent of people.
Moisturizing with products that contain urea or salicylic acid to exfoliate and smooth the skin can help keep symptoms under control.
According to a survey by CeraVe, a significant majority (77%) of Americans experience dry skin during the winter. Furthermore, 83% of people notice a difference in their skin quality during winter, often describing it as “unhealthy.”
Keeping the above mentioned information in mind, here are some general, helpful tips for maintaining an effective winter skin care regimen:
Moisturize: Use a thicker, richer moisturizer during the winter, especially after bathing.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils — opt for lukewarm water.
Cover Up: Scarves, gloves, and hats can protect skin from harsh winds and cold temperatures.
Use a Humidifier: This adds moisture to the air in your home, preventing skin from drying out.
If any skin condition worsens or persists, it’s always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. It’s also wise to make annual skin checks a priority, as they are an effective form of preventive care.
It’s about more than feeling comfortable in your own skin; you deserve to be healthy inside AND out. The Functional Medicine experts at Omnia Health are here to provide you with a comprehensive plan that takes every aspect of your wellness into account.
Schedule a consultation today to get started.
