5 Cold Weather Skin Conditions – Optima Dermatology on New Day Cleveland

January 2025

How to Protect Your Skin During the Cold Weather Months

As temperatures drop, the arrival of cold weather can cause or worsen several common skin conditions. Fortunately, with the right approach and care, you can protect your skin from the harsh effects of winter. Dr. Gregory Delost from Optima Dermatology shares his expert tips for keeping your skin healthy during the colder months.

Why Does Cold Weather Affect Your Skin?

The combination of cold temperatures, low humidity, and indoor heating can strip your skin of its natural moisture. Dr. Delost explains, “When we turn on our furnaces for the first time, the dry air begins to pull moisture from our skin. Think of your skin as a brick wall, where the fats in your skin act as the mortar holding it together. When your skin becomes dry, that mortar weakens, leading to irritation, inflammation, and even infections.”

Tips to Combat Dry Skin

To maintain a healthy skin barrier during the winter, consider these expert recommendations:

1. Avoid Hot Showers While hot showers feel comforting in the cold, they can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness. Instead, opt for lukewarm water and limit your shower time.
2. Choose Gentle Soaps Harsh soaps can exacerbate dryness. Dr. Delost advises avoiding soaps like Irish Spring and Dial, which can strip the skin of it’s moisture. Instead, opt for moisturizing cleansers or cream-based body washes.
3. Moisturize Immediately After Showering Lock in hydration by applying a fragrance-free moisturizer while your skin is still damp. This helps to seal in moisture and restore your skin’s natural barrier.
4. Use the Right Products Dr. Delost recommends products like CeraVe, which contain ceramides to replenish the skin’s mortar. For extremely dry skin, old-school remedies like Vaseline can be highly effective. “Use enough to slide down the hallway,” he jokes.

Common Winter Skin Conditions

Cold weather can also trigger specific skin conditions. Here are some to watch out for:

1. Rosacea

Rosacea is a common condition characterized by redness, especially on the cheeks and nose. Dr. Delost notes that triggers like hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and stress are more prevalent during the holiday season. Managing these triggers and using calming skincare products can help.

2. Raynaud’s Disease

This condition causes a red, white, and blue appearance in the fingers and toes due to overly sensitive blood vessels. For severe cases, blood pressure medications may be prescribed to improve circulation.

3. Cold Urticaria

Cold weather can also trigger hives in some individuals. This condition, known as cold urticaria, can often be managed with daily antihistamines.

4. Frostbite

Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to frostbite, particularly on the fingers, toes, nose, and ears. Early symptoms include numbness and tingling. Dr. Delost advises warming the affected areas with lukewarm water and seeking medical attention if symptoms persist.

Winter Skin Care Essentials

To keep your skin healthy all winter long, Dr. Delost emphasizes the importance of daily moisturizing. “Avoid products with excess fragrances, as these can irritate dry, sensitive skin, especially if you have eczema. Keep your routine simple and focused on hydration.”

By following these tips and addressing skin concerns early, you can enjoy the winter months without compromising your skin’s health. For personalized advice, consider scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist at Optima Dermatology.