The Science Behind Winter Skin Dryness

Dr Marc-André Doré

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, winter brings its own set of beauty challenges, chief among them being dry, flaky, and irritated skin. Many of us experience an uptick in skin dryness during the colder months, leaving us wondering why this happens and how we can prevent it. Understanding the causes of winter skin dryness is the first step to achieving soft, hydrated skin all season long.

The science behind winter skin dryness

Our skin’s moisture levels are influenced by both internal and external factors. During winter, several environmental and behavioral changes take a toll on our skin's hydration.

  1. Low Humidity Levels:

    Cold air naturally holds less moisture than warm air. When temperatures drop, outdoor humidity levels plummet, and this dry air pulls water from our skin, leaving it dehydrated and prone to cracking.

  2. Indoor Heating:

    Central heating systems, space heaters, and wood stoves may keep us warm, but they also sap moisture from the air inside our homes. This low-humidity environment exacerbates skin dryness, creating a cycle of dehydration.

  3. Hot Showers and Baths:

    Nothing feels better than a hot shower on a freezing day, but prolonged exposure to hot water strips the skin of its natural oils. These oils act as a protective barrier, locking in moisture.

  4. Cold Winds and Harsh Weather:

    The biting winter wind can compromise the skin's natural lipid barrier, leading to increased water loss and irritation.

  5. Reduced Oil Production:

    In colder weather, our sebaceous glands produce less oil, which is critical for maintaining hydration. This decrease leaves our skin more vulnerable to the drying effects of the season.

  6. Frequent Hand Washing:

    Winter is also flu season, which means we’re washing our hands more frequently. This necessary habit can strip the skin of moisture, leading to dry, cracked hands.

Signs of winter skin dryness

Dry skin in winter doesn’t always look the same for everyone, but common symptoms include:

  • Tightness or discomfort, especially after washing.

  • Flaking or peeling skin.

  • Cracked or rough texture, particularly on hands and heels.

  • Itchiness or redness.

  • Dull appearance, lacking its usual glow.

Fortunately, there are ways to keep your skin hydrated and healthy throughout the colder months:

How to combat winter skin dryness

  1. Moisturize frequently:

    • Opt for rich, ceramide moisturizers or creams that help lock in hydration.

    • Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing to trap water in your skin.

  2. Use a humidifier:

    • Adding moisture to the air in your home can counteract the drying effects of indoor heating.

  3. Switch to gentle cleansers:

    • Replace harsh soaps with mild, fragrance-free cleansers that won’t strip your skin.

  4. Avoid hot showers:

    • Use lukewarm water instead, and limit showers to 10 minutes to reduce moisture loss.

  5. Protect your skin outdoors:

    • Wear gloves, scarves, and other protective clothing to shield your skin from harsh winds.

    • Use a hydrating lip balm with SPF to prevent chapped lips.

  6. Stay hydrated:

    • Drinking plenty of water helps maintain your skin’s hydration from the inside out.

  7. Exfoliate gently:

    • Use a mild exfoliant once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells, allowing your moisturizer to penetrate better.

  8. Apply sunscreen:

    • Yes, even in winter! UV rays can still damage your skin, so don’t skip your SPF.

When to seek help

If your skin becomes excessively dry, cracked, or painful despite your best efforts, consult a dermatologist. Conditions like eczema or psoriasis may flare up during winter and require specialized care.


Make an appointment

Final Thoughts

Winter may pose challenges for your skin, but with the right care, you can keep it hydrated, soft, and glowing all season. By understanding the causes of winter dryness and adopting a proactive skincare routine, you can protect your skin from the harsh elements and enjoy a more comfortable, radiant winter.

Ready to tackle winter skin woes?

Contact our dermatology clinic for personalized advice and treatments tailored to your needs.

Stay warm and stay moisturized!


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