Can Low Humidity And Winter Air Worsen Skin Sensitivity? Dermatologist Explains

During the winter season, low humidity and the quality of the winter air can worsen your skin sensitivity. We notice that our skin feels more sensitive and reactive during the winter months. Our skin that was once perfect and the products that never used to bother us are now causing burning, itching, or a sensation. Even after the application of a moisturiser, the skin feels tight and irritated. 

If you have also experienced this, you are not alone. Skin irritation during winter does not mean that your skin type has changed. Dr. Hina Kukreja, Medical Director, Zurie Skin Clinic explains, “In many cases, this is simply because of exposure to lower humidity and cold weather, as our skin is unable to maintain its moisture barrier and defend itself.”  

How Does Low Humidity and Winter Air Affect Skin Sensitivity? 

Dr. Hina Kukreja says, “As the air gets drier during the winter season, it has less moisture to spare from the environment, which worsens the water loss of the outermost layer of the skin.” The combination of dry air and cold wind can make your skin dry and uncomfortable. Also, the heating system inside your body will naturally lower the moisture content of the air. 

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Why Does Winter Air Affect Sensitive Skin And Not Normal Skin?

A normal skin barrier helps to hold moisture and protect against environmental aggressors, maintaining non-irritated skin. During winter, sensitive skin tends to become more reactive to your skin care products, such as your daily face and body cleansing products. Thus, the skin barrier becomes compromised. Because of all these reasons, winter sensitivity appears as burning, redness, patches, or itching, not dryness. 

How To Prevent Skin Sensitivity During Winter? 

It is better to pause on intervening in the symptomatology by adding multiple new products to the regimen. Because of the overuse of exfoliating acids, retinoids, and harsh cleansers, already compromised skin barriers can be hindered. Switching moisturisers again and again can delay the diagnosis of the underlying trigger. 

What Should Skincare Routine Look Like For Sensitive Skin During Winter?

For people with sensitive skin, a skincare routine should not be complicated during winter. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and a moisturiser that contains ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. Ceramides help protect the skin, and glycerin and hyaluronic acid help to hold moisture. Once cleansing is done then moisturiser should be applied after it because during that time your skin is still slightly damp to keep it hydrated. Also, sunscreen should be used every day, even during winter, without fail. 

Conclusion

Remember, weather changes can cause one to act differently for their sensitive skin, but following a dermatologist-explained routine can help you in the long run. Dr. Hina Kukreja talks about protecting your sensitive skin during low air humidity, and winter air comes down to patience and barrier repair rather than adding new products. Thus, you need to simplify your routine and make sure you apply moisturiser to lightly damp skin to trap hydration inside. 

(Image Credits: Magnific)

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