Dry skin in winter: a dermatologist reveals the best care tips

Why is the skin so stressed in winter?

The skin's natural, protective oil film is fed by millions of small sebaceous glands. When temperatures drop, these glands produce less and less skin fat. In extreme cold, this fat production can even be stopped completely. In this way, a main component of the skin's natural protective layer is lost. Since the skin lacks a fatty film, the water evaporates more quickly from the skin's surface. The dry heating air also removes important moisture from our skin. The skin dries out, itches, tightens and small cracks can appear. The constant alternation between warmth inside and cold supports this process - winter is pure stress for our skin!

Why are many people so pale in winter?

Under the influence of cold, the blood vessels under the skin contract. The body ensures that the heat is kept inside the body. However, in this way it also restricts the blood supply to the skin. They look pale because they are getting less oxygen and nutrients.

How can I treat dry patches on my face?

Sensitive, dehydrated skin needs intensive and long-lasting hydration. Optimal care strengthens the skin's resistance and supports the skin's own protective barrier. It must glide gently over the skin and immediately create a pleasant feeling of well-being. Basically, it is important to pay attention to the individual needs of the skin - this applies both to the choice of facial care and to the right dosage. The skin should be provided with the necessary care in the morning and evening after cleansing.

What do you mean by "required care"?

A good recommendation is a "pea size". If the skin of the face needs more care, it is advisable to apply small amounts more often than to overwhelm the skin with a large amount. Too much cream cannot be optimally absorbed by the skin and can upset its physiological balance. She may react with impurities.

What can I do if the skin cracks in winter?

Lipid-rich creams on a water-in-oil basis help against dry skin. They form a thin insulating and protective layer on the skin, keep out the cold during a walk and prevent the skin from excessively evaporating moisture. The urea urea penetrates the skin and binds water. For people with oily or acne-prone skin, on the other hand, it is advisable to stick with the usual care products even in winter. New products may promote the formation of sebum blockages.

Which products are recommended for preventative care - for example for lips and hands?

The skin on the backs of the hands and face is particularly stressed in winter. On the face, on the other hand, the lips and the auricles are most affected. For preventive care of the skin, I recommend creams containing urea and glycerin. A moisturizing cream that is applied before going to bed helps against dry hands. Then put on cotton gloves and leave them on overnight. Care products based on beeswax are recommended for the lip region.

What am I doing wrong if my hands only feel drier after applying lotion?

In this case, I would advise changing the care cream. It can make sense to use a cream without emulsifiers, parabens (preservatives) and fragrances.

What do I have to consider when cleaning - when showering or washing my hands? Should I perhaps leave out the soap, after all it washes fats out of the skin?

Never leave it out entirely, instead use a pH-neutral soap or products with a pH value of 5.5. For example, there are also moisturizing hand washing oils for the hands.

When should I go to the dermatologist?

For eczema. Or when the skin becomes inflamed and tears.

Do you have any care tips that you use yourself to get through the winter well?

I clean my skin particularly mildly during the cold season, as washing-active substances and surfactants also rob the skin of valuable fats. That means: I avoid bubble baths and rather add care additives like almond oil to the bath water. In the shower I use shower oils and don't shower too long and not too hot. After showering, I apply skin care creams. I also try to watch my diet.

Why this?

Because we can support skin health through our diet. Plant pigments such as carotenoids (particularly rich in carrots and tomatoes), polyphenols (e.g. in green tea) as well as flavonoids and vitamins are good. I generally recommend a Mediterranean diet with a high proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The principle applies: Nutrients that protect the heart and circulation are usually also good for the skin.

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