Whether you call Farragut home or you’re just checking out Turkey Creek or Concord Park, dealing with dry skin in the peak of winter can be a real hassle. When you’re casually wandering through Farragut’s shops or making your daily trek between work and home, there’s nothing worse than your skin acting up—feeling itchy, tight, and downright uncomfortable. Follow some tips to prevent or treat dry skin so you can enjoy an East Tennessee winter.

Is your skin feeling a bit flaky at the elbows or knees, or have you noticed some cracks in your hands? Winter is creeping in, and with it comes the annoyance of itchy, dry skin. To keep your skin healthy in the chilly months, it’s crucial to understand why this happens and how to prevent and treat it.

If you have questions or concerns about your dry skin, our team at AFC Urgent Care Farragut can help. We’re open seven days a week with no appointment necessary. Contact us today to learn more.

Why Winter Makes Your Skin Dry

As winter sets in, the air loses its moisture, both indoors and outdoors. This dryness sucks the moisture out of your skin faster, leaving it dry and uncomfortable. On top of that, cold temperatures can tighten up blood vessels, reducing the natural flow of oils and nutrients to your skin. Combine these factors, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for winter-dry skin.

Common Areas for Dry Skin

Dry skin is a unique experience for each person, but there are some common trouble spots that tend to dry out, especially when winter rolls around

• Elbows. The skin on your elbows is naturally thicker and more inclined to dryness. Since this area lacks oil glands, it’s more prone to losing moisture.
• Hands. Cold air, harsh soaps, and frequent handwashing can be a triple threat, stripping away the natural oils from your skin and leaving it dry and prone to cracks.
• Knees. Like elbows, the skin on your knees is on the thicker side and tends to be drier. Regularly moisturizing is key to warding off dryness and roughness.
• Face (especially around the mouth). The delicate skin on your face is sensitive to changes in the environment. The area around your mouth is at risk of dryness due to constant exposure to cold air and wind.
• Feet. Closed shoes and boots in winter might make your feet sweat, leading to dryness and potential cracks. The lack of moisture in the air only adds to this challenge.

Preventing Dry Skin During Winter

Use a Humidifier

Combat dry skin with the magic of humidifiers, which work wonders by reintroducing moisture into the air. This helps keep your skin happily hydrated, steering clear of dryness and irritation.

Here’s the lowdown on making the most of your humidifier:

• Choose a humidifier that suits the size of your home; too small won’t cut it, while too large might foster a damp environment perfect for mold.
• Strategically position the humidifier in a central spot for even distribution of moisture throughout your living space.
• Regularly clean your humidifier to prevent bacteria and mold. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
• Aim for a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent—this sweet spot is not only great for your skin but also for your home.

Ditch the Hot Showers

Though hot showers might feel like a cozy escape during the colder months, they’re actually harming your skin. The hot water exacerbates the natural dryness of winter air, leading to redness, irritation, and flaking. Ever noticed your skin turning red post-shower? Blame it on hot water causing blood vessels to dilate, bringing on the irritation and dryness.

Hot water is a threat to your skin because it also it strips your skin of its natural oils, crucial for forming a protective barrier against moisture loss and irritants. When you frequently use hot water, it can damage the keratin cells on the outermost layer of the skin, making it harder to lock in moisture and leaving your skin prone to dryness and irritation. Do your skin a favor and try lukewarm instead of scalding water for happier, healthier skin.

Stay Hydrated: Moisturize Regularly

Make moisturizing a regular part of your routine to ward off winter dryness. The cold, dry air can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it tight, itchy, and flaky. Regular moisturizing helps replenish these oils and keeps your skin feeling hydrated.

For the best results, use a fragrance-free and non-comedogenic moisturizer to avoid irritating your skin and clogging pores. Ointments and creams are your go-to if your skin tends to be very dry. Look for products with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter—they work wonders in replenishing natural oils and maintaining hydration.

Apply moisturizer right after bathing or showering, when your skin is most receptive to moisture. Hit all the dry-prone areas on your body, and reapply daily as needed.

Protect your skin

When heading outside in cold or freezing temperatures, gear up to protect your skin. Gloves shield your hands from the cold and wind, while a scarf keeps your neck and face toasty. Wear a hat to protect your scalp and ears. Even though the sun might not be blazing, don’t underestimate its UV rays—apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on all exposed skin, including your face, neck, and hands.

Stay hydrated with a healthy winter diet

A diet rich in fruits, veggies, and whole grains gives your skin the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it craves for hydration and radiance. Sip on at least eight glasses of water a day for even more help combating dry skin.

Fruits, packed with water, help maintain skin moisture and prevent dryness. Vegetables are a goldmine of vitamins A, C, and E—essential for skin health and warding off premature aging. Omega-3 fatty acids, found abundantly in fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines, keep your skin elastic and inflammation-free. Add these nutrient-rich foods into your diet for healthier and more vibrant skin in the colder months.