It may still seem a little early yet to start thinking about winter and all of its festive glories, but the chilly weather and post-Halloween “hangovers” are already in full effect in many households, including mine! I love this time of year for so many reasons, but it also happens to be a season that not only wreaks a bit of havoc on our general health, but our skin as well. With skin being the largest organ – and also a main protective barrier – it is important to keep it healthy and hydrated, even through the harsh winter months.
There are many reasons why common skin complaints arise around this time of year. Dry, rough, and flaky skin can be attributed to lower outside humidity levels, indoor heating, and frequent hand washing. Skin health is also largely dependent on hydration status. During the summer months, we may feel more inclined to drink more water due to the heat and extra sweating. Thirst is a feeling that comes naturally in the warm weather, even if we are just relaxing outside. However, in the winter, it can be difficult remembering to reach for the water bottle all the time, especially if we are cold or feeling more lethargic. Skimping on water intake can take a toll on skincare, especially when skin is already experiencing moisture loss.
Winter skin issues can affect nearly anyone at any age. Those who already have sensitive skin or other issues like eczema or psoriasis can be even more susceptible. Children can also experience dry skin, but may be too young to verbalize. Look for signs and symptoms such as excessive itching, rough patches of skin, difficulty sleeping, or cracked lips in babies and toddlers. A small section regarding dry skin in children is included later in the article.
Winter can be a harsh time for health, but your skin doesn’t have to suffer. These tips can even be used year round for those with sensitive skin or eczema.
Use Gentle Products
Mild products that are free from fragrances, soaps, and allergens can be very helpful for rough skin, but finding the right products for your own personal liking is sometimes easier said than done. To complicate matters even more, a recent study was published that found that as much as 83% of products that claim to be “hypoallergenic” actually contain some sort of chemical allergen. This may not be an issue for the average consumer – even with occasional dry winter skin – but could be harmful to people with sensitive skin and children with eczema. Even as a pharmacist, I was shocked to learn from this study that many products contain a great deal amount more ingredients than what is actually listed on the package. Not to fear, most of us remain unharmed by anything, but it is still important to know that loopholes regarding ingredient listing do exist in the skincare and cosmetic industry.
With that being said, the study did find some products that are truly free of any skin allergens. These products are:
White petroleum jelly
Cold-pressed and unrefined coconut oil
Vanicream’s hypoallergenic products
Aveeno Eczema Therapy Moisturizing cream
Again, if you have underlying skin issues, it may be helpful to try these products. If you have relatively “normal” skin and are just experiencing winter dryness, there are still a host of other gentle cleansers and moisturizers available that you may like better.
For cleansing, I like mild agents such as Dove and Cetaphil. Women can even use make-up removing wipes and micellar water, if traditional washing is too harsh. Just make sure water is warm – not hot – and apply a layer of moisturizer right away.
I always keep a jar of petroleum jelly, like Vaseline or Aquaphor, handy in the house all year round. Vaseline is 100% petroleum jelly, while Aquaphor is around 40% petroleum jelly mixed with other ingredients. These products aren’t considered moisturizers, but do lock in the skin’s own moisture which can be crucial for many during the winter months. Many people think that skin needs to be rough and scaly in order to use something so thick and heavy, but Vaseline used sparingly can actually be applied to the face, lips, and other body parts fairly routinely for smooth and healthy skin. Many beauty industry experts even swear by Vaseline for eye wrinkles, dry lips, and even lash strengthening when applied sparingly to lashes. I also love Vaseline for my children for issues like dry skin, minor cuts, and diaper rash prevention.
If you are acne-prone or feel uncomfortable using Vaseline on your face, there are many oils available that work very similarly and may be easier to use for some. Examples of oils that are safe for both children and adults include coconut oil, argan oil, and rose hip oil. You could even apply a layer of oil onto skin prior to bathing or showering – just make sure the water is not too hot.
Use alcohol-based toners, exfoliants, and retinol products cautiously. Many of these agents – while touted for their anti-aging benefits – can actually be a little harsh on already sensitive, dry skin. Common ingredients that have the potential to dry out skin are alcohol, any “acid” (glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid) and any retinoid-type product. You may want to consider switching to every other day or even once weekly usage.
Use a humidifier
Humidifiers can help not only with colds and congestion, but with skin health as well by replacing moisture back into the air. Cool-mist humidifiers are preferred if young children are present in the home, as warm-mist humidifiers may cause burns if children come in close contact or water spills from the tank.
Just remember to always keep your humidifier clean by rinsing the filter and cleaning the parts often. Vinegar can also be used to clean the tank. Water should be changed often, such as every day or every other day. You can also use purified or distilled water to prevent mineral buildup.
Infuse your diet
Infuse your diet with loads of water and foods that are minimally processed and contain fatty acids. Skin cells are protected by fat, so it makes sense to supplement this layer internally with good food choices. Omega-3 fatty acids are the preferred fat and can help keep skin feeling smooth and supple. Examples of food that can help with skin are salmon, avocados, walnuts, flaxseeds, tofu, and foods that are fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, such as orange juice. Supplements that also contain omega-3 fatty acids are also available if the above food products don’t agree with you. Some people even use a spoonful of avocado oil or flaxseed oil daily.
Protect your skin
The sunlight may not seem to be in full effect such as in the summer months, but it is still very important to protect your skin and lips with an SPF. The wind can also be harsh on skin, so protective clothing like scarves and hats are recommended. It is important that skin and hair are completely dry before going out in the cold, if even just for a minute. Skin that is damp and comes in contact with cold air is more prone to chapping.
Dry Skin Care for Children
The tips listed above can also be used for children, but I know that sometimes it is hard to have children eat right all the time or have them keep their scarves and hats on, especially when they are having a blast outside. These tips are more practical for young children (and the parents who take care of them!). For instance, it is ok to skip bath time here and there. Children don’t need to bathe every single day, and when they do bathe, make sure to take a look at the ingredients listed on bubble baths and soaps. I know these products make bath time fun (I personally have an arsenal of them in my own bathroom closet), but if the ingredient list looks way too long with names you can’t pronounce, you may want to skip out on these products from time to time if your child’s skin appears dry or rough.
Milk, honey, oatmeal (such as Aveeno Baby Soothing Bath), and bath oil (such as Burt’s Bees Lemon and Vitamin E Bath Oil) can all be added to the bath to soothe skin and minimize irritation. Just a few drops of oil are recommended – anything more can make the tub slippery. If your child likes to linger in the bath, consider waiting to soap up until the very end. That way, the child won’t be sitting unnecessarily in excess soaps or shampoos. Once bath time is over, gently pat dry and apply a moisturizing agent such as an oil or gentle cream right away. A small dab of baby Aquaphor can also be mixed with just about anything to keep moisture locked in the skin. Ingredients to avoid are alcohol and sodium lauryl sulfate.
If your child suffers from atopic dermatitis or eczema – which are more severe skin issues aside from dry skin – you may need to take a look at everything that comes in contact with your child’s skin, including laundry detergents, clothing materials, and possible even bedding. It is helpful to use agents that are free from fragrances and dyes.
With dry winter skin, you may need to moisturize your child more than once a day. I know it is hard to wrangle small children for such a mundane task, but itchy skin is even more bothersome! Use humidifiers in the house and make sure your child is drinking enough fluids.
We still may be lingering in fall festivities, but winter is just around the corner! It is not too early to start transitioning your skincare for yourself and your family!
References:
http://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/2652353
*The author does not receive compensation for listed products or agents.
