The harsh winter weather this year in St. Louis is uncomfortable enough with the cold temperatures—not to mention the effect it can have on your skin. Scott Dunbar, dermatology resident at Washington University in St. Louis, shares his tips to keep your skin healthy and itch-free during winter:
1. Watch your shower temperature. Even though a hot shower can feel great after coming in from the cold, hot water actually dissolves the natural oils in your skin that keep it moisturized. Dunbar recommends lukewarm water, but says that even decreasing the water temperature a few degrees can make a big difference.
2. Use the soak and smear method. As soon as you get out of the shower, pat yourself dry with a towel and immediately put on a skin moisturizer—you want to lock in the moisture on your skin right after you shower. And don’t use a moisturizer that’s too thin. Anything that comes out of a pump, Dunbar says, is probably too thin. Look for a cream-based moisturizer, or even an ointment like Vaseline.
3. Watch the humidity level in your home. Heaters and fireplaces can make the humidity level extremely low, which dries out your skin. Try using a portable humidifier to increase the moisture level in the air.
4. Cover up. Even though it’s a given to wear lots of layers to keep warm when you’re outside, it’s also a good idea to wear gloves for indoor activities such as washing dishes or cleaning with household chemicals, Dunbar advises. For your clothing, go for cotton or silk underneath your outerwear, rather than itchy, wool fabrics.
5. Choose products carefully. A lot of detergents have dyes and perfumes that can irritate your skin, and the cold winter weather can make your reactions worse, Dunbar says. Also, avoid antibacterial soaps, which can strip away natural oils. Lastly, don’t forget to wear a facial moisturizer with SPF of at least 30 to reduce sun damage.
If your skin becomes irritated and doesn't respond to any treatments, seek care from a dermatologist.
