It’s the most wonderful time of the year—holiday celebrationswith loved ones, good food and good cheer. And yes, it’s even possible to have good skin during thewinter months in Chicago. Many ofus often experience chapped lips, dry hands and itchy skin this time ofyear. Let’s take a look at thebasic structure of the skin to help understand the effects of topical productson the biological function of the skin. The skin is composed of three primarylayers: the epidermis, the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Each layer possesses specificcharacteristics and functions; however, we will focus on the epidermis intreating dry skin, also known as xerosis. Xerosis is sometimes referred to as “winter itch” because it is worseduring the winter season. Theoutermost layer of the epidermis, called the stratum corneum provides a barrieragainst water loss and also helps to absorb unwanted materials that come intocontact with our skin. Dry skin is primarily characterized by lack of moisturein the stratum corneum. For theskin to appear and feel comfortable, the water content in stratum corneum mustbe more than 10 percent. Water,i.e. moisture, is lost when the skin barrier is disrupted by low temperatures, indoorheating, low humidity and brutal winds; especially when combined with harshsoaps and skin care products or frequent, prolonged bathing in hot water. Whenthe skin is too dry, it may become irritated, inflamed, flaky and itchy and caneven develop cracks and fissures. Fortunately, there are many ways to addressthe common problems associated with “winter skin”. Not only is it important to moisturizemore often but choosing moisturizers with the most beneficial ingredients iskey. Look for products that contain ingredients such as ceramides, which helpto repair the skin’s lipid barrier and hyaluronic acid, a good humectant toattract and hold moisture in the skin. One product we often recommend is CeraVe, a relatively inexpensive skincare line which offers a gentle cleanser, moisturizing lotion and a heaviermoisturizing cream. CeraVeproducts are also fragrance-free; an important factor when choosing skin carefor sensitive or dry skin as perfumes and scented products can cause irritationand further inflame the skin. And, remember, high-end, expensive products don’tnecessarily work any better than inexpensive ones. In fact, some higher end products may contain unnecessary orirritating ingredients. The mostimportant factor is how your skin feels and looks in response to a product—nothow much the product costs. Evenplain olive oil can be used as a gentle and effective moisturizer.
Chapped lips are also a common and uncomfortable conditionthis time of year. Again, avoid flavoredand fragranced lip products which can exacerbate the problem. Petroleum jellyor Aquaphor are simple and effective lip treatments. For severely chapped lips, ask your doctor about a lip balmcontaining 1% hydrocortisone.
Long, hot showers or baths may be tempting after an outingin Chicago winter weather; however, it’s best to stick with quick bathing inlukewarm water to help prevent dryness. Moisturizing right after bathing and handwashing is especially important during the winter months. Investing in a humidifier is also anexcellent option for adding moisture to your home environment which in turnbenefits the skin. If you sleepwith a humidifier in the bedroom, keep doors closed to prevent the moist airfrom escaping the room.
Wool clothing feels good during the winter months but beaware that wool is a common skin irritant that may cause redness, itching andrashes in persons with sensitive skin.
Healthy lifestyle measures such as not smoking, regularexercise and good nutrition help promote good skin year around. Heart-healthy fats such as Omega 3’sfound in olive oil, walnuts and fish are also “skin-healthy” by helping to keepthe skin supple from the inside out.
Some skin regimes for acne or anti-aging may increase alsoincrease winter dryness and irritation of the skin. Products containing retinol, glycolic or salicylic acid orbenzoyl peroxide may be especially drying during wintertime. However, for persons considering skinrejuvenation procedures such as laser treatments or chemical peels, winter is agood time of year due to the importance of avoiding sun exposure followingthose procedures.
Finally, please remember to use sunscreenyear around to help prevent skin cancer and premature aging of the skin.
