Getty Images
Eczema and Dry Skin in Winter? Here’s How to Keep It Calm and Hydrated
Winter is coming—and for anyone prone to dry skin or eczema, that can mean itchy, red, crusty patches popping up faster than you can say “layer up.” Cold outdoor air, combined with indoor heating, can strip your skin of its natural moisture, leaving it looking and feeling less than cute. The good news? There are plenty of ways to keep your skin calm, hydrated, and cozy this season.
According to the National Eczema Society, a little extra care can make all the difference when the temperature drops. Not everyone sees their eczema flare the moment autumn hits, but many notice a sudden downturn in their skin’s condition as the weather cools. Here’s how to stay ahead of it:
Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Keep rooms around 18°C and layer your clothing so you can peel off or add layers as needed. Thin layers are your friend—they keep you warm without overheating sensitive skin.
Combat indoor dryness. Radiators and central heating may keep you cozy but can suck moisture out of the air. Placing a bowl of water near a radiator can help. Avoid sitting directly next to a heat source; instead, warm the whole room and snuggle into blankets or cozy layers.
Ventilate your space. Closed windows may seem cozy, but stagnant air allows dust mites and mold to thrive—both big eczema triggers. Open your windows daily to refresh your home, even if only for a few minutes.
Use the right moisturizers. Oil-based moisturizers and ointments are lifesavers this season, forming a protective barrier to lock in moisture. Just be mindful not to use them on areas that get hot or sweaty—trapped sweat can mix with ointments and cause irritation. Humectant creams are also helpful, drawing water into the skin. Reapply frequently and keep topical steroids nearby for any flare-ups.
Take warm, not hot, baths or showers. Lukewarm water protects your skin’s natural oils, whereas hot water strips them away. Add colloidal oatmeal to your bath for extra soothing relief, and keep bath time short—10 to 15 minutes is perfect.
Layer smart and avoid itchy fabrics. Wool can be scratchy, even under other layers, and should be avoided for scarves, gloves, and clothing touching sensitive skin. Opt for soft, breathable cotton instead. If warmth is a concern, wear a thin cotton layer under another glove or scarf.
Don’t forget sunscreen. Yes, even in winter. Snow and cold-weather reflections can magnify sun exposure. Apply a broad-spectrum, moisturizing sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher to your face, hands, and other exposed areas. Some products combine oil-based moisturizers with sunscreen for double protection.
Be vigilant indoors. Spend extra time dusting and vacuuming carpets, rugs, curtains, and mattresses. Damp dusting and deep cleaning help keep allergens in check.
Protect your skin outdoors. Hands, face, and lips are especially vulnerable. Apply emollient before heading out and avoid licking lips. Gardeners should protect skin from moldy leaves, compost, or damp soil.
Take care of your overall health. Winter colds and flu can trigger eczema flare-ups. Eat well, rest, and maintain good hand hygiene to protect both skin and immunity.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your dry skin or eczema persists despite following these expert tips, it may be time to consult a board-certified dermatologist. Persistent dryness could signal an underlying condition. Getting proper treatment not only helps relieve discomfort but also prevents both your dry skin and the root condition from worsening over time.
Conversation
All comments are subject to our Community Guidelines. Life & Style does not endorse the opinions and views shared by our readers in our comment sections. Our comments section is a place where readers can engage in healthy, productive, lively, and respectful discussions. Offensive language, hate speech, personal attacks, and/or defamatory statements are not permitted. Advertising or spam is also prohibited.