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Winter Itchy Skin? Revamp Your Bathing Habits and Increase Moisturizing for Better Skin Health
26 days ago | 5 Views
Winter has arrived, signalling the need to generate dry indoor heat with reduced humidity levels. When outdoors, individuals are subjected to cool, dry air, which can exacerbate skin issues. Incorporating hot water baths into your routine can further contribute to the conditions that lead to dry skin. This often results in itchiness in various areas of the body. Itchy skin during winter is a prevalent issue, especially among those with pre-existing dry skin or conditions such as eczema, which can cause dryness, itchiness, and inflammation. To prevent dry and itchy skin, one may consider home remedies such as oatmeal baths and the application of coconut oil to maintain skin hydration.
What are the causes of itchy skin in winter?
1. Cold, dry air
Individuals may encounter itchy skin during the winter months, a condition referred to as winter itch or pruritus hiemalis. According to dermatologist and cosmetologist Dr. Nilofar Diwan Mansuri, this condition is a form of skin irritation or inflammation primarily caused by the drying effects of cold, dry air. The low humidity levels characteristic of winter air extract moisture from the skin, resulting in a dehydrated skin barrier that becomes dry, tight, and susceptible to itching.
2. Indoor heating
Heating systems, while providing warmth, tend to lower the humidity levels in indoor environments, resulting in a drier atmosphere. This prolonged exposure can strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness and leading to skin irritation. Research published in the European Journal of Pain in 2015 indicates that environmental factors, particularly heat, can trigger itching.
3. Hot showers
"While hot showers are enjoyable during cold weather, they can be detrimental to your skin as they strip away the natural oils that protect it," explains Dr. Mansuri. This lack of protection increases the risk of moisture loss, making individuals more vulnerable to dryness.
4. Harsh soaps
The use of soaps or cleansers containing potent chemicals and fragrances can disturb the skin's pH balance. "Such products eliminate natural lipids, which are essential fats for the skin, further intensifying dryness and leading to itchiness," states cosmetic and aesthetic surgeon Dr. Shweta Mishra.
5. Underlying conditions
Existing skin conditions, such as eczema, which causes dryness and itchiness, often become more severe during winter months. A study published in the Clinical and Experimental Dermatology journal in 2023 revealed that participants with eczema experienced worsened symptoms in winter and improvement in summer. The dry air contributes to flare-ups, increasing skin sensitivity and itchiness.
Who is at a greater risk of having itchy skin in winter?
- People with dry skin: People with naturally dry skin produce less sebum, the oil that helps lock in moisture. "In winter, this predisposition worsens as the cold air strips away the limited natural oils," says Dr Mishra. This leads to itchy skin in winter.
- Older adults: "Older people are at higher risk of having itchy skin in winter since their skin naturally dries out and loses elasticity due to age," says Dr Mansuri. Dry skin is a common problem in the older adult population, with prevalence ranging from 41.2 to 99.1 percent, as per research published in Geriatric Nursing in 2023.
- People with skin conditions: People with conditions like eczema or psoriasis have an already compromised skin barrier, making their skin more vulnerable to winter dryness. These conditions often flare up during colder months due to reduced moisture and increased skin irritation.
- Frequent bathers: People who bathe frequently, especially with hot water, inadvertently remove their skin's natural oils. This habit leads to increased dryness and itching, particularly in winter when the skin’s ability to retain moisture is already reduced.
How to get rid of itchy skin in winter?
1. Moisturise frequently
Applying a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer immediately after bathing can effectively lock in moisture. It is essential to apply the product on damp skin to maximize hydration retention. "Opt for occlusive moisturizers that include ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. These components are beneficial in attracting and retaining moisture within the skin, thereby creating a protective barrier," advises Dr. Mishra.
2. Oatmeal bath
Colloidal oatmeal possesses inherent anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate skin irritation. An oatmeal bath not only alleviates itching but also establishes a protective barrier to minimize moisture loss. A study conducted in 2015 and published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology revealed that colloidal oat extracts, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, were effective in assisting women with mild to moderate itching and dry skin.
3. Humidifiers
"Utilizing a humidifier indoors can enhance air moisture levels and help prevent skin dehydration," states Dr. Mishra. Adding a humidifier to your bedroom or living space can assist in preserving the skin’s natural moisture balance, particularly when indoor heating is in use.
4. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is recommended for alleviating itchy skin during the winter months. It serves as a natural emollient that hydrates and soothes dry skin. "With its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, throughout the winter season," notes Dr. Mishra.
![coconut oil for itchy skin](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2022/12/03144359/coconut-oil.jpg)
5. Aloe vera gel
Applying fresh aloe vera gel can soothe inflamed skin and alleviate itching. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help ease the symptoms of inflamed eczema and provide relief from associated itching, according to research published in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences in 2018.
6. Ensure proper hydration
Maintaining hydration from within is equally crucial as topical treatments for alleviating itchy skin during winter. "Keeping your body well-hydrated aids in sustaining moisture levels in the skin, enhancing its overall elasticity and mitigating dryness and itchiness," states Dr. Mishra.
7. Adjust bathing practices
It is vital to use lukewarm water instead of hot water during showers to protect the skin’s natural oils. Hot water can deplete these protective oils, resulting in heightened dryness and itchiness during winter. Limit shower duration to 10 minutes or less to minimize the skin's exposure to drying effects, thereby helping it retain moisture.
8. Choose mild cleansers
Soaps, particularly those with strong fragrances or alcohol, can compromise the skin’s natural barrier and worsen dryness. It is advisable to select gentle, fragrance-free cleansers designed for sensitive or dry skin. Such cleansers generally possess a milder pH that helps preserve the skin's natural oils, reducing the risk of further irritation. Avoid products containing added chemicals, dyes, or artificial fragrances, as these can trigger allergic reactions or exacerbate skin irritation.
9. Consider medicated creams
Over-the-counter hydrocortisone or antihistamine creams can be effective in managing inflammation and itchy skin during winter. Hydrocortisone creams function by diminishing inflammation and can be particularly beneficial for calming irritated skin. Conversely, antihistamine creams address the root cause of itching. "However, these treatments for winter-related itchy skin should be utilized sparingly and for limited durations, as extended use of hydrocortisone may lead to skin thinning," advises Dr. Mishra. It is recommended to consult a physician before using these creams for winter-related itchy skin.
Itchy skin in winter is common, but people with dry skin, older adults or those with eczema may be affected more. Stay away from hot showers and use moisturisers to keep dryness away and itching.
Read Also: Clinique Moisture Surge Review: Is It the Ultimate Solution for Dry Skin?
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