People with dry skin or eczema urged to follow seven steps this winter

Cold weather can trigger eczema flare-ups by stripping the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness and irritation.

Low humidity, combined with harsh winds and damp conditions, can worsen the skin's ability to retain hydration, making eczema symptoms more pronounced and difficult to manage. While most of us want to hide inside in the warm when the cold weather hits, central heating can make dry skin conditions feel even more painful.

Rhysa Phommachanh, Personal Care Specialist at Landys Chemist said, “The use of central heating in the winter causes the air to become less humid and dry which causes the skin's moisture to evaporate swiftly from the surface. This causes the skin's top layer to lose its natural oils and moisture, resulting in dryness and dehydration."

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The skin expert continued, "While there is no cure for eczema, various methods and treatments can help control its symptoms. It is important to remember that everyone's skin is different and what works for one person may not work for another.

"It is important to consult a dermatologist or a doctor for a long-term treatment plan to manage your eczema."

To keep your skin soft and supply this winter, without worrying about the pain and discomfort of eczema, the expert recommends following these seven simple steps:

1. Moisturise Your Skin

The dry winter air strips your skin of its natural moisture, leading to irritation. To combat this, use a thick, emollient moisturiser that creates a protective barrier to lock in hydration.

2. Swap Shower Gel for Oil

Traditional shower gels can be harsh, especially for eczema-prone skin. Opt for shower oils or moisturising cleansers, which cleanse without stripping the skin's natural oils, keeping it hydrated.

3. Limit Hot Showers

While hot showers are tempting in winter, they can worsen skin dryness. It's better to shower with lukewarm water and reduce the time spent in the shower to avoid irritation.

4. Hydrate from Within

Drinking water is key to maintaining skin hydration, even in colder weather. Herbal teas and warm water with lemon are excellent ways to keep your skin hydrated during the winter months.

5. Protect Your Skin Outdoors

Cover your skin with scarves, gloves, and hats when going outside to protect it from the harsh, dry air and winds that can trigger eczema flare-ups.

6. Use a Humidifier

Central heating can dry out indoor air, exacerbating skin issues. A humidifier helps maintain moisture in the air, benefiting your skin during the colder months.

7. Choose Fragrance-Free Products

Fragrances in skin care products can irritate sensitive skin in winter. Choose fragrance-free or hypoallergenic products to avoid skin reactions and help maintain healthy skin.