Winter not only brings cold but also leads to low humidity, dry wind and indoor heating systems, the silent enemies of the skin. In those conditions, the natural oil layer protecting the skin is easily swept away, making the skin dry, stretchy, flaky and more sensitive. Many skin care habits that are suitable for hot weather become counterproductive when the weather turns cold.
According to studies published in the British Journal of Dermatology, seasonal climate change can directly affect skin protection barriers at the cellular level. The outermost layers of skin become drier and rougher in winter, increasing the risk of dermatitis, edema and cracking, especially in the cheeks and hands.
Dr. Priyanka Sharma, dermatologist, skin and hair expert at the healthcare consulting system Health Shots (India), said: "Cold and dry weather weakens skin protection barriers. If you do not adjust your care routine, the skin is very prone to dehydration and irritation, even in people who used to have healthy skin.
How to restore the skin barrier correctly?
According to Dr. Sharma, the key to winter skin care is not to use too many products, but to use them correctly and enough. First of all, you should switch to mild cleanser, cream or oil, instead of strong foaming types. This helps retain natural lipids, limiting the feeling of dryness after washing your face.
Moisturizing is an indispensable step. “Creams or ointments rich in nutrients, containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin, are more effective in restoring the skin's protective barrier than light creams,” Dr. Sharma emphasized. Applying cream when the skin is still slightly moisturized will help lock in water better; combining moisturizing serum below can increase skin elasticity.
A common but avoidable habit is bathing in hot water for too long. High temperatures make the skin dehydrate faster, making protective barriers difficult to restore. Instead, you should shower quickly with moderately warm water.
Don't forget to sunscreen and moisturize from inside
Many people mistakenly believe that winter does not need sun protection. In fact, UVA rays still penetrate clouds and reflect from bright surfaces. Therefore, it is necessary to use broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or more every day. In addition, wearing a scarf, gloves and using a humidifier in the house also helps reduce the impact of cold wind on the skin.
Drinking enough water and supplementing with warm herbal tea is a simple but effective way to maintain moisture from the inside, a factor that is often underestimated in cold weather.
For cases of skin peeling, redness, tingling, or prolonged acne breakouts, experts recommend going for a dermatology examination. “Treatment at this time is not to follow cosmetic trends, but to restore the health barriers that protect the skin and control inflammation,” Dr. Sharma noted.
Winter skin care, after all, is a lesson of understanding skin and moderation. When you know how to listen to seasonal changes, your skin will be strong enough to overcome harsh cold months.
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