In winter, the skin loses water more easily and can become drier and more sensitive. A dermatologist explains which habits are worth adopting—and which to avoid—to get through the season with the skin barrier protected.
As temperatures drop, it’s not only the clothing we choose each morning that changes. The needs of the skin also change. Cold, wind, heating and the contrasts between indoor environments and the outdoors can disrupt the skin barrier, promoting dryness, irritation and flaking. In light of this scenario, some daily habits make a difference.
“The skin needs to adapt its care to each season. During winter, protecting the skin barrier, maintaining adequate hydration and not neglecting photoprotection are fundamental pillars to preserve its health and prevent premature aging,” explains dermatologist Milagros Alcorta.
Boosting hydration to protect the skin barrier
During winter, the skin loses water more easily. Therefore, the specialist recommends applying moisturizers or hydrating emulsions at least twice a day, especially after bathing, when the skin is more receptive to absorbing the humectant ingredients.
Among the ingredients that help restore and strengthen the skin barrier are hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, shea butter and oats.
Why it’s best to avoid very hot showers
Although a very hot shower is tempting when it’s cold, it can remove some of the natural lipids that protect the skin. As a result, dryness and irritation increase.
The recommendation is to opt for short baths with lukewarm water and to use gentle cleansers that respect the skin’s natural balance.
Sunscreen is also an ally in winter
One of the most frequent mistakes during this season is stopping the use of sunscreen. However, ultraviolet radiation remains present year-round and continues to be one of the main factors associated with premature aging, the appearance of spots and cumulative cellular damage.
Therefore, Alcorta recommends maintaining daily use of facial sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even when the day is cloudy.
A good time for certain dermatological treatments
The reduced sun exposure makes winter a season favorable for carrying out treatments aimed at improving skin quality, treating spots, stimulating collagen production or addressing signs of aging.
Among them are procedures such as peels, intense pulsed light (IPL), platelet-rich plasma or depigmenting protocols, always prescribed and supervised by medical professionals.
Lips, hands and hydration: care routines you should not overlook
The lips and hands are usually the first areas to show the effects of the cold. Frequent use of nutritive lip balms and restorative creams helps prevent cracks and flaking.
In addition, even though thirst decreases in winter, the specialist reminds of the importance of maintaining adequate water intake and a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, to support the skin’s hydration from within.
If dryness, redness, itching or flaking persist despite these measures, she recommends seeking medical consultation, as these symptoms can be related to conditions such as atopic dermatitis, rosacea or eczema, which require specific diagnosis and treatment.
Source: Milagros Alcorta, aesthetic physician and dermatologist
