As outdoor temperatures go down and indoor temps heat up, the air gets drier and so does your skin. In the winter, it’s not uncommon for people to experience redness and discomfort on the surfaces of their hands, legs and other parts of the body. Being proactive with lotions and potions may help! As we head into the cooler season, consider switching up your skin care routine and arming your body with everything it needs to stay comfy and cozy through the holidays and beyond. 

Opt for warm showers, not hot. When your fingers and toes and everything in between feel cold, a long, hot shower sounds like a luxury. Resist! According to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, hot water can actually dry skin out. Choose warm water, instead, and don’t linger in the mist for too long.

Lotion up as soon as you towel off. Lotion works by adding moisture and by sealing moisture in. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends slathering lotion on right after you step out of the shower when your skin is still damp, for maximal moisturizing. Further, the AAD suggests using an ointment or cream because they may be more effective than other products, and choose skincare items that are gentle and fragrance-free, to avoid irritating the skin. Oh, and don’t neglect the feet, hands and lips! Those are parts tend to dry out and suffer when they’re forgotten.

Drink lots of water. While moisturizing your skin is important, so is hydrating your body from the inside out! And adult bodies consist of 60% water. It’s up to you to help maintain that balance so that your body can carry out all of its functions, including the essential duties that the skin does to protect you from germs and regulate your temperature.

Keep using sun protection year-round. UV rays shine all year long, regardless of temperature. People of all skin types should protect their skin from damage by wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on any body part that will be exposed to the sun, according to the AAD.

Break out the humidifier. For some people, dry air can cause nose bleeds, dry sinuses and skin so dry it cracks. A humidifier helps by putting moisture into the air. Just remember that it’s important to keep humidifiers clean, or they can contribute to other health problems.

Talk to your doctor or dermatologist about any concerns. People with skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis may find that dry, cool weather is a trigger for flare-ups. If that’s the case, you may need to modify your skincare routine and apply moisturizer or ointment more frequently. If you’re struggling with any skin challenges and can’t seem to solve them on your own, reach out to your doctor or dermatologist for personalized health advice.

Tune in to any changes on your skin. In summer it may be easier to spot something suspicious on your skin, because you’re simply seeing more skin. Don’t forget to tune in in winter, too, and look for any suspicious growths or changes that could indicate skin cancer. The American Cancer Society lists the following characteristics to be aware of:
– A new, expanding or changing growth, spot or bump on the skin
– A sore that bleeds and/or doesn’t heal
– A rough or scaly red patch that may also crust or bleed
– A wart-like growth
– A mole or other spot that’s new or changes in size/shape/color
– A mole that has an odd shape, irregular borders and/or areas with different colors

If you notice an area that has the above characteristics, or changes in other ways, make an appointment for a skin check with a dermatologist.

Layers are necessary in winter and your skin is perhaps the most important layer! As the largest organ of your body, your flesh is working overtime, night and day, to protect you from harm and regulate your body temperature. Remember to take good care of it so it can take good care of you!