Itching in winter
The right skin care in winter
The temperatures are dropping, the days are getting shorter and the warm winter jacket becomes a daily companion. But while we wrap up warm, our skin often reacts quite differently: it tightens, starts to itch and feels rough – as if it is feeling the challenge of this time of year itself. For sensitive skin types in particular, the cold air combined with dry heating air can quickly become a problem. Those who don’t take precautions now are familiar with the typical vicious circle of dehydration, skin irritation and feelings of tightness. But with the right care, you can keep your skin supple, healthy and pleasantly warm even in winter. Find out more in this article!
Why does my skin itch in winter?
As soon as it gets colder outside, many people notice a change in their largest organ – their skin: it becomes flakier, drier, more cracked – and often starts to itch. These symptoms occur for a reason: they are typical of so-called winter skin. The most common signs include
- Itching
- Taut and cracked skin
- Scaly, rough patches
The reason for this is that our skin reacts particularly sensitively to external influences in winter. The cold air outside and the dry heating air inside draw heat and moisture from the skin. At the same time, the sebaceous glands produce less oil, which normally acts as a protective oil film and strengthens the skin’s protective barrier. Frequent showers with aggressive ingredients can also dry out the skin. Lips, hands and other parts of the body that are not sufficiently protected are particularly affected.
However, with the right care, winter skin can be effectively supported so that it remains supple and healthy even in the cold season.
Winter eczema - what is it?
As the name suggests, winter eczema is eczema that occurs in winter. Eczema is an inflammatory skin reaction that is usually accompanied by redness, itching, scaling and sometimes the formation of blisters. It is a generic term for various skin problems that can be triggered by different causes.
Winter eczema can occur on the face, hands, elbows, arms, legs, back of the knees and feet. The hands in particular are often affected, as they lose a lot of moisture through frequent hand washing and are already drier. The skin is particularly damaged in these areas, cracks easily, can bleed and is very tight. Scratching often makes the situation worse, as the skin is repeatedly irritated and cannot recover.
Tips against itching and co. in winter
1. ensure high humidity
Heating air dries out the skin considerably. A humidifier can provide optimum moisture indoors. Alternatively, bowls of water on the heating can also help. This not only protects the skin, but also the mucous membranes.
2. ventilate regularly
Fresh air helps to regulate the humidity. A short burst of airing in the morning and evening (5-10 minutes) is completely sufficient.
3. avoid hot, long showers or baths
Hot water also removes moisture from the skin. In the case of eczema, hot water can even cause pain on open areas. Lukewarm water is therefore ideal.
4. wear the right clothing
Scratchy clothing or friction can further irritate the skin. It is better to wear soft fabrics such as cotton and avoid woolen clothing directly on the skin.
5. protect from cold
Gloves, hats and scarves are important to protect the skin from the cold. Well-covered skin dries out less and is not unnecessarily irritated.
Active ingredients for dry skin
Particularly effective care products that moisturize and strengthen the skin barrier are suitable for dry winter skin:
- Hyaluronic acid: Binds moisture and ensures long-lasting hydration.
- Urea (urea): Supports moisture retention and softens rough skin.
- Glycerin: Draws water into the skin and keeps it supple.
- Oily creams and ointments (e.g. with shea butter or ceramides): Form a protective film that prevents water loss.
- Mild cleansing products: Avoid drying soaps and aggressive ingredients.
With a combination of the right care, protection from the cold, sufficient warmth for the body and moist indoor air, winter skin can be effectively soothed, winter eczema prevented and itching significantly reduced – for a pleasant skin feeling despite the cold season.
Conclusion
Winter poses particular challenges for our skin: The cold, dry heated air and frequent showers lead to dehydration, skin irritation and sometimes even winter eczema. However, with the right care, protection from the cold and the use of suitable active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, urea or oily creams, the skin can be kept healthy and supple even in the cold season.
It is important to pay attention to your own skin type, avoid aggressive ingredients and provide the skin with sufficient moisture and warmth. In this way, skin irritation, tightness and cracks can be avoided – and winter skin becomes a well-cared for companion through the cold season without hands, lips or other parts of the body suffering unnecessarily.
