Foggy City, Smooth Skin: Winter skin care in San Francisco
It is officially winter in San Francisco. The Fog City vibe right now is cozy clothing, warm beverages, and snuggle sessions with the people you love. Let’s face it: it is also the season of dry, itchy skin, which is a winter vibe killer. Get the Skinny on ways to keep your skin healthy and glowing this winter.
Why do we get dry skin in the winter?
Dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, known medically as eczema, is a common problem for many, particularly in winter months. Winter season brings dry, cold air, indoor heating, and pleasantly hot showers, all of which strip moisture from the skin. Dehydrated skin results in irritated, exposed skin nerve endings, which triggers itching, scratching, and eventually, inflammation, none of which feels pleasant.
Here are five steps you can take to care for your skin during the winter months:
Moisturize frequently: it is important to add hydration back to dehydrated skin in the winter months. The best type of moisturizer for dry, itchy skin is one that is in a cream formulation (rather than a lotion in a pump bottle), that can be scooped out of a jar. The best time to use a moisturizer is immediately after showering or washing your face. Apply liberally once or twice a day.
Use a humidifier: this can help to add moisture back into the air, which can in turn help to keep your skin hydrated
Protect your skin from the elements: Cold weather, wind, and snow can all be harsh on your skin. To protect your skin, cover up as much as possible when you go outside, wear sunscreen daily, and use a thick lip ointment such as petroleum jelly or Aquaphor, to protect your lips.
Avoid scalding hot water: While it may be tempting to take hot showers to warm up during the winter, hot water strips moisture from your skin, worsening skin dryness. Instead, opt for lukewarm water and limit your shower time.
If you have dry, itchy, inflamed and rashy skin that is not improving with the above steps, you may have severe eczema that needs to be treated by a dermatologist. Consult your local dermatologist for a skin evaluation. Visit us at California Center for Dermatologic Surgery for any skin concerns.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your skin hydrated, healthy, and radiant throughout the winter months.