As Temperatures Drop, Here’s How to Protect Your Skin

The skin is your body’s largest organ, which is why keeping it safe is vital to your overall health and well-being. As the temperatures drop, so can the protection your skin typically receives. 

The good news is that by following a few simple hacks, you can have the healthy, beautiful, and stress-free skin you deserve all throughout the year. See one of our skilled dermatology specialists at Latham Dermatology in Latham, New York, to keep your skin firm and flawless this season. 

How cold temperatures can affect your skin

The colder winter air is often drier than its summer counterpart, which can wreak havoc on our skin’s health when not addressed. The results often include dry, cracked, itchy, and rough skin (especially the hands, face, or lips) that can become painful in some cases. Fortunately, making a few minor adjustments can work wonders this winter.

8 ways to optimize skin health during the winter months

Here are some simple ways to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, smooth, and free from disease and injury:

1. Avoid overexposure to cold and wind

Keeping your skin safe in the winter means protecting it from the elements when you’re outdoors. Avoid exposing your skin to frigid temperatures and wind by wearing warm gloves, long sleeves, a mask or scarf when necessary, and other appropriate outerwear based on your climate. You’ll avoid frostbite and other skin injuries by choosing heat-trapping clothes.

2. Use lip balm

It doesn’t get much worse than having dry, cracked, and painful lips when you try to smile during the winter months. Keep your lips protected by applying lip balm regularly. Choose a balm with sun protection factor (SPF) if you’re outdoors, even when it’s cold or cloudy.

3. Wear sunscreen or a brimmed hat

Don’t neglect sunscreen as temperatures drop; the elements can still damage your skin during non-summer months. Sunny cold-weather days can emit ultraviolet rays that can penetrate unprotected skin and reflect off snowy or icy surfaces. If you don’t have sunscreen handy, wear a wide-brimmed hat and avoid the urge to use tanning beds. 

4. Humidify indoor air

Adding moisture to indoor air can reduce dryness, soothe itchy skin, and keep your skin protected from cracking. Consider a filtered, cool-mist humidifier for your bedrooms to boost skin hydration. 

5. Moisturize daily

Don’t wait for your skin to feel dry before you moisturize. Choose a heavier (denser) winter moisturizer as recommended by the Latham Dermatology team to protect your skin’s barrier and keep it smooth, soft, and youthful.

They may recommend you try specific ointments or creams based on your skin type. Apply the moisturizer right after showering or bathing to trap in moisture, and apply it at least twice daily.

6. Wear soft fabrics

Wear softer fabrics like silk or cotton this winter that won’t irritate dry skin like wool and other itchy materials. Comfort is a key component for your skin’s health during the cold seasons and beyond.

7. Avoid long, hot showers

It’s tempting to take long, hot showers during the colder winter months, but doing so can worsen dryness. Take shorter showers or use warm water instead of hot water to keep your skin protected and hydrated. Apply a moisturizer afterward.

8. Choose gentle products

Gentle skin care products, body washes, and laundry detergents are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, which tend to be less irritating than scented products. Choosing gentle products is especially helpful if you have sensitive skin.

When to see your dermatologist

You don’t have to wait until you have symptoms of a skin condition, such as acne, rashes, rosacea, psoriasis, warts, skin cancer, eczema, or similar concerns. 

See the Latham Dermatology experts if you’re interested in prevention, want to reduce wrinkles and other common signs of aging, or develop dry patches, itching, scaling, cracking, or new growths during the cold months and beyond. 

Keep your skin protected, refreshed, and healthy by contacting us at Latham Dermatology today. Call our office or request an appointment online.