With the weather beginning to cool down, illnesses tend to become more apparent. With the colder weather, you may also notice some differences in your health such as some skin irritation. Learn about why your skin gets irritated in the colder months and how to manage the symptoms. 

Common Skin Conditions In Fall

Cooler weather brings plenty of unwanted side effects such as an increase in overall disease due to viruses like the cold and flu. It also can bring changes to your body, including changes to your largest organ, your skin. Cooler temperatures bring dry conditions, which is not good for maintaining soft, moisturized skin. You may experience skin irritation, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors, due to windy conditions and cold temperatures.

Common Skin Conditions in Fall:

• Eczema
• General dryness
• Rosacea
• Dandruff

Although skin conditions do not generally pose a serious risk to your overall health, having skin conditions caused by the change in the weather can still have unwanted side effects and potentially can lead to infection. It is important to manage the symptoms at home to avoid complications or scarring.

How to Soothe Irritated Skin

Luckily, this notable change in skin health is not uncommon in the fall and there are many remedies that you can try to protect your skin from drying out in the first place and to manage already existing dryness.

Here are some tips to keeping your skin hydrated this fall:

• Moisturize regularly
• Use a heavy moisturizer at night
• Always use SPF to protect your skin from damage, even in cold weather
• Lower the temperature of your shower - hot water dries out your skin!
• Avoid products with alcohol and fragrance
• Use a humidifier
• Cover up when outdoors in the cold
• Use a hydrating cleanser

There's a million options for skincare at the store. Generally, as long as they don’t include harsh fragrances or alcohols, you can use over the counter moisturizers to effectively mitigate dryness. Using an ointment like vaseline to spot treat extra dry areas, such as around your nose and mouth, can help your skin recover from excessive dryness.

Walk-in Healthcare Near West Long Branch, NJ

If you’re experiencing chronic dryness, or your dry skin is peeling and bleeding, you should seek medical attention. Your medical provider can refer you to a dermatologist for specialized treatment options. Avoid touching irritated and exposed skin to prevent further damage.

The best way to avoid uncomfortable conditions caused by dry winter weather is to prevent damage from occurring in the first place. Covering up when you’re spending time outdoors and using a humidifier in winter months can help your skin from experiencing extreme dryness.

Get General Illness Care at AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch

Dry winter conditions can cause a variety of negative health impacts. Keeping your skin healthy is possible with early action and preventive steps. For general illness care, the medical team at AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch is here to help. Walk-in for quick diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions.

If you’re in need of medical care, AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch is here to provide reliable healthcare, including preventative healthcare. Visit our services page on our website to learn more about the illnesses we treat and services that we provide. Call today to speak to a medical provider at (732) 222-8000.