What is a winter rash?
According to Dr. Khushboo Jha, a dermatologist in India and Da & Hair expert, winter rashes are mainly caused by rapid skin dehydration due to low humidity. When the skins natural moisture barrier weakens, the outer layer is prone to peeling, causing redness and burning, says Jha.
Winter rashes often appear in areas of skin that are in direct contact with cold air such as the face, hands, and forearms. Common symptoms are dryness, mild itching, and smooth scales. The good news is that this condition often improves significantly after a few days to a week if fully moisturized, gently washed with a cleanser, and limited prolonged hot showers. Winter rashes are like a "cold" of the skin, uncomfortable but rarely dangerous.
Skin diarrhea, a chronic disease that should not be underestimated
In complete contrast, eczema is a chronic dermatitis related to skin barrier disorders and atrophy. Dr. Khushboo Jha emphasizes: People with eczema have congenital skin sensitivity, which is prone to inflammation even when the weather is not too harsh.
Leprosy can occur all year round but is often active in the winter. Severe itching, thickened red skin, cracked skin, and even bleeding are typical signs. Common locations include the face in the elbows, back of the knees, neck, eyelids and hands. People with a family history of allergies and asthma are at higher risk of eczema.
If the rash does not improve despite regular moisturization, or the pain and itching increase, that is the time to suspect eczema.
When should you see your doctor?
According to Dr. Jha's recommendation, if over-the-counter products do not bring effectiveness after 1-2 weeks, patients should see a dermatologist. Delaying treatment can make eczema worse, causing prolonged and uncontrollable skin damage, she says.
The doctor may prescribe specific topical medications, combine skin barrier recovery products and advise avoiding irritants such as raw fabric, strong detergents or environmental foreign affairs.
Keeping your skin healthy in winter is not a luxury. moderate moisture, take a warm bath in moderation, use a humidifier and listen to your skin, these are small habits but have long-lasting value. Don't confuse it and pay the price with persistent itching throughout the cold season.
