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Common Winter Problems And How To Deal With Them

Updated on 11 February 2020

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Is your skin feeling dry and tight or itchy and flaky? The cold weather is here and you may feel relieved that your summer tan has faded. But then so has your skin's natural moisture. The unforgiving dry air of winters tends to strip your skin of its protective oils. The result? Chapped lips, itchy skin and cracked heels.

7 Common Winter Skin Problems And Their Fixes

So it’s once again time to take extra care of your skin and stay on the watch for skin problems in winter. Let's see what are the most common threats to your skin in the winter months ahead and what you can do to deal with them.

  • Chapped Lips: None of us is immune from dry lips in winter! Here’s how to cope: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and use a humidifier at home if possible. Apply beeswax or petroleum jelly liberally on your lips. Put on lip balm or lipstick with sunscreen every time you step outside. Don't lick your lips to hydrate them -- it may feel better briefly, but it only makes chapped lips worse moments later.
  • Cracked Heels: Painful, cracked heels are a recurring problem in winters. They are often caused by dry skin and get worse in dry winters. Keep your feet healthy and sufficiently moisturised by applying petroleum jelly on cracked heels, covering them with plastic wrap and putting on a pair of socks.
  • Dry Hands: Your hands may be hard hit by the cold winter air and water. Washing your hands frequently is necessary to eliminate cold and flu germs, but it also increases dryness. Give dry hands the much-needed care this winter by using a glycerin-based moisturizer in the morning, before going to bed, and any time during the day when your hands feel dry. And don't forget to wear gloves every time you go out.
  • Eczema: Eczema refers to a type of skin inflammation marked by dry, reddened skin that itches or burns. It can flare up in winters. Stay protected by moisturizing frequently with an oil-based ointment that contains sunscreen. Sweating and overheating can also trigger the itching, so wear your layers accordingly. You may seek advice from the best dermatologist in Hyderabad and other cities for prescription treatments.
  • Psoriasis:  Psoriasis is more serious than dry skin. It is caused when the immune system is unable to control the build-up of skin cells. Dry air, cold weather and lack of sunlight can make it worse. For prevention, follow short, lukewarm shower routines, and use lots of moisturizers and also humidifiers throughout the house. Do consult a skin specialist in India about the best treatments for you.
  • Itchy, dry skin: This is extremely common once the air becomes drier and cooler. Eating a healthy diet as well as drinking plenty of fluids is very important. Use lukewarm water and a gentle, super-fatted soap in the shower. Remember, hot water is for removing grease from pots and pans, not your skin. Lock in the moisture after your bath by gently patting skin dry and applying moisturizer, preferably a glycerin-based moisturizer and not just some watery lotion high on fragrance. Reapply moisturizer throughout the day whenever required, especially on excessively dry skin patches. Avoid being out in the sun and wind for too long. Whenever you do, apply winter sunscreen moisturiser before stepping out.
  • Dandruff: Scalp irritation, dandruff and skin flaking can occur any time, but typically flares up in winter. For the scalp, it’s beneficial to use anti-dandruff shampoos. Excess shampooing can strip away the hair's inherent moisture in winters. So wash your hair every 2-3 days instead of daily. Apply conditioner to keep your hair hydrated, soft and shiny. Avoid over-styling with the blow dryer or flat iron and protect your hair from the elements by wearing a hat. Consult the best dermatology hospital in India if dandruff persists.  
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