In winter, sweaters, scarves, and thick coats almost become the "second layer of skin" for many people. However, behind that warm feeling is a silent risk: skin infections caused by fungi and bacteria. This is not uncommon, especially in areas where the body is prone to sweating but is less noticed.
According to dermatologist Navjot Arora, a professional collaborator at Health Shots (India), woolen clothes when worn for a long time can retain sweat, dead skin cells and microorganisms. “A warm and humid environment under the wool layer is an ideal condition for fungi and bacteria to multiply, especially in folded skin areas,” he emphasized.
The most easily "hit" skin areas in winter
Skin infections related to winter clothes often appear in the armpits, groin, neck, waist and feet. These are areas prone to sweating but are covered and less ventilated. When sweat is not properly dried, bacteria and fungi have a chance to develop, causing itching, redness, burning, and even peeling skin.
According to Dr. Arora, many people are subjective because they think winter sweats less, so they don't need to focus on skin hygiene like summer. "That is a common mistake. In fact, winter sweat is more difficult to evaporate because it is held under many layers of clothing," he warned.
Wear it properly so your skin breathes
The first and most important solution is to choose appropriate clothing. Dermatologists recommend wearing a layer of cotton shirt that is breathable and close to the skin, then wearing a sweater on the outside. Cotton helps absorb sweat well, limiting direct contact with the skin.
Conversely, wearing tight sweaters for a long time can irritate the skin, increase sweating and worsen the risk of infection. In addition, the skin needs to be washed clean and completely dried before wearing sweaters, especially in skin folds.
Skin areas prone to sweating need to be cared for more carefully in winter, not less," Dr. Arora emphasized.
Cleaning clothes, clean is not necessarily safe
Another mistake is re-wearing sweaters many times because "it still looks clean". According to experts, clothes may not be dirty visible to the naked eye but still contain sweat, bacteria and dead skin cells. Washing sweaters periodically and properly is a key factor to prevent infection.
In addition, it is necessary to avoid sharing wool items such as scarves, coats or hats. Changing clothes immediately when damp, using baby powder or antifungal powder in areas prone to sweating also helps reduce the risk of infection.
Keeping warm is necessary, but keeping skin dry and clean is the foundation of skin health. Winter is not only a story of cold, but also a personal hygiene problem and the habit of dressing properly. Winter skin care, in the end, is caring for the body with understanding, not just with thick clothes.
