How To Combat Dry Skin In Winter

Why winter wreaks havoc on your skin

Several environmental factors impact your skin health, and they become harsher in winter. Indoor and outdoor climates are drying for skin, which makes it harder to retain healthy levels of skin hydration.

The science behind seasonal skin dehydration

Your skin is continuously exposed to dry air in winter, both indoors and outside. Cold outdoor air doesn’t hold as much moisture as room temperature or warm air, so it seeks moisture from other sources – like your skin. 

Inside, central heating heats your space without adding any more humidity, causing a similar drying effect. Water molecules are pulled from the surface of your skin, which leaves you with a drier epidermis, which can appear red, flaky or cracked.

What is dry skin?

Dry skin is a common skin type. It means the moisture reserves in your skin are naturally lower, rather than being directly caused by environmental factors like cold weather, harsh face wash or sun damage. If you regularly notice signs of dryness or have dry skin all year round, you likely have a dry skin barrier.

Signs your skin is suffering from winter dryness

If you normally have hydrated skin but notice changes in winter, you may need to add more moisture to your skincare routine in colder climates. Recognising the signs of skin dryness is crucial for treating and preventing it.

Common symptoms of dry skin

Tightness

A lack of moisture in the skin causes it to lose its elasticity and flexibility, resulting in feelings of tightness.

Flaking

Since dry skin lacks moisture, it’s common for the outer layer to peel or flake. Dry skin can also feel rough to the touch.

 Irritation

Dry skin may be red, itchy or sore, because it’s more prone to damage and inflammation.

The role of indoor air in skin hydration

Indoor air may dry out when the heating is on, but with technological innovation, it’s possible to control the indoor environment to make it more conducive to healthy, hydrated skin, all year round.

Why humidity matters for healthy skin

The amount of moisture in the air directly affects the moisture in your skin. Low humidity can dry out your skin, while high humidity can cause excess sweating, pore blockages and even breakouts. At optimum humidity, the environment supports your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Using a humidifier to restore balance 

Keeping your home well-humidified is a crucial step in supplying moisture to your skin. 

A Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool™ Autoreact PH3A utilises innovative technology to purify and humidify your space, capturing 99.95% of particles from the air as small as 0.1 microns.1 Hygienic, purified air restores moisture to your indoor climate and replenishes the moisture within your skin. This model is engineered with an auto mode that scans the air for signs of dryness and brings your space to optimal humidity to create an environment your skin will love.

Lifestyle habits that support skin health

Hydration from within: water and omega-rich foods

Getting your daily dose of vitamins and drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin nourished and hydrated. Drinking water boosts your skin’s natural water reserves, while eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C and E can help with valuable oil production and hydration. Essential foods include flaxseeds, fish, avocado and coconut oil.

Shorter, cooler showers

Hot showers can be relaxing, but hot water can dry out your skin’s natural moisture and oils or worsen conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Instead, opt for a shorter, cooler shower that doesn’t dry out your skin.

Avoiding harsh fabrics and detergents

Some detergents are made with ingredients that strip the skin of moisture and oils. If you notice that this happens to you regularly, check the ingredients in your detergent and consider switching to a different one.

Skincare strategies to lock in moisture

Gentle cleansing and barrier-repair ingredients

Harsh cleansers strip the skin of essential moisture and natural oils, which can contribute to skin dryness. Use a gentle cleanser that cleans dirt, pollutants and excess oil from the skin, rather than a harsh cleanser that completely strips it.

Layering hydration: serums, creams and oils

After cleansing, serums with highly concentrated ingredients can offer a hydration boost to dry skin. Lock in your skincare with an oil that forms a protective barrier, retaining moisture and limiting the environmental impact on your skin.

Best moisturisers for winter skin

Hydration is key in winter, so thicker moisturisers with more hydrating properties are best. Apply moisturiser to dry skin while it’s damp to improve absorption and lock more moisture into the skin.

When to seek professional help

In some cases, lifestyle changes and skincare updates don’t solve dry skin. If you suspect you have an ongoing skin condition that causes dry skin, seek medical advice.

Chronic dryness and skin conditions

Chronic dryness refers to skin that is consistently dry as a result of environmental factors, genetics, lifestyle factors, or even medical conditions. Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis cause skin to feel dry, itchy and irritable, and must be managed carefully with specific treatment.

Prescription treatments and dermatologist advice

You can manage some dry skin conditions with prescription treatments, medications or topical creams. Discuss your concerns with a doctor or dermatologist to receive a prescription to manage dry skin.

Your winter skin survival plan with Dyson

With innovative technology to take care of your indoor environment, there’s one less thing to worry about when it comes to looking after your skin in winter. Dyson’s innovative engineering makes improving your indoor air simple and easy, so you can achieve the optimal indoor climate for your skin to thrive.