Dr. Adam Friedman, professor and chair of dermatology at George Washington University’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences, explains how colder weather can negatively affect your skin. “Tis the season to be flaky with the lower humidity, the blasting heat, and dry, cold air — it’s very easy for the skin to dry out,” Friedman said.
When skin dries out, it becomes itchy, and when scratched, it increases the risk of infection. According to Friedman, there are ways to combat dry skin, starting with how you clean yourself. He emphasizes that while washing your hands is important, doing so frequently can be counterproductive.
“Water is the most drying substance on the planet. It will actually wash away the natural substances that pull water in, leading to further dryness,” he said.
Winter skincare essentials from Dr. Friedman
His advice is to avoid overusing soap and opt for gentle soaps and moisturizers during winter. Products designed to treat eczema can be beneficial, even for those who do not have the condition. These products usually contain colloidal oatmeal, which helps fight inflammation. They might also contain pre- or postbiotics that support the skin’s natural barrier.
Friedman suggests applying moisturizer to damp skin rather than overly wet skin. For those who frequently wash their hands, he recommends his daily “hand rash boot camp.” This involves soaking hands in lukewarm water for a few minutes, patting them dry, applying a thick moisturizer to the damp skin, and then wearing gloves or socks for about 30 minutes to help lock in moisture. If your dry skin has reached a severe stage, leading to skin fissures, Friedman advises using a liquid Band-Aid instead of a traditional one.
Finally, protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, even in winter. Sunscreen should be part of your daily routine regardless of the season.
