Tips for Managing Dry Skin in the Winter Months

The cold and unforgiving months of winter are upon us — and that frigid, dry air can have a serious impact on your skin. During the winter months, it’s especially common for people to suffer from xerosis, the clinical diagnosis of dry skin. If you experience a general feeling of skin tightness, itchiness, flaking skin or even deep cracks that bleed, you’re likely one of many people who suffer from dry skin during the winter months.

At Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting, we take pride in being one of the area’s largest privately owned dermatology group practices — and our dermatologists have the expertise needed to diagnose and treat dry skin right here in our office.

A Legacy of Care and Expertise

For years, our practice has specialized in providing patients with diagnosis, treatment and counseling options for diseases of the skin, hair and nails. Our experienced and knowledgeable team, from our front office staff to our board-certified dermatologists, is committed to providing patients with the highest standard of care.

Meanwhile, our state-of-the-art facility utilizes the latest treatment methods and technology to ensure patients receive the quality care and results they deserve. Whether you’re here to get help for your dry skin or any other skin ailment, we’re here to help.

The Winter Challenge: Understanding Why Skin Suffers

What makes dry skin so common during the winter months, anyway? The main culprit is the drop in humidity that tends to occur when temperatures drop and there is less sunlight. This, combined with most people spending more time indoors with forced air furnaces and other sources of dry air, can leave the skin deprived of the moisture it needs to stay healthy.

Dry skin can occur anywhere on the body. However, for people suffering from dry skin during the winter, it is especially common in the hands and knuckles, face and feet. The skin may appear dry and flaky. It may also be itchy or painful, especially if the skin develops cracks that bleed.

The Power of Moisturizers: Locking in Skin’s Natural Radiance

One of the best ways to combat dry winter skin is simply using a daily moisturizer. Specifically, moisturizers work by locking in hydration and preventing further moisture loss from the skin. However, not all moisturizers are created equal, so finding the one that’s right for you is important. Look specifically for moisturizers formulated for your skin type and the area of application; for example, the delicate skin of the face may require its own moisturizer for the best results.

Going Beyond the Basics: Advanced Treatments for Skin Rejuvenation

To truly get the most out of your moisturization and skin care routine while helping your skin look and feel its best this winter, we’re proud to offer skin rejuvenation treatments here in our office. Some options to consider include:

• HydraFacial MD – A treatment that uses patented technology to cleanse and hydrate the skin with super serums to remove dead, flaky skin cells and provide deep moisture.
• Microdermabrasion – A minimally invasive resurfacing procedure that removes the outer layer of dry, damaged skin cells to reveal healthier skin underneath.
• Chemical peels – A superficial peel that can remove dead skin cells and impurities while making skin more accepting of moisturizers.

Interested in a rejuvenation treatment? Contact our office today for your consultation!

Proactive Measures: Guarding Your Skin From Winter’s Wrath

In addition to regular moisturizing and skin rejuvenation treatments, there are some other measures you can take to protect your skin from dryness during the winter months.

If your hands seem to be the most affected by dry winter air, aim to protect them with gloves if you’re out and about on cold days. To protect your face, apply a daily moisturizer immediately after washing/showering, and be sure to protect the delicate skin on the lips with a lip balm.

Recognizing When to Seek Expert Help

If you’re moisturizing plenty and taking other proactive steps but are still experiencing painful dryness, cracked skin, itchiness and other symptoms, it may be time to seek help from our professional dermatologists. We offer a tailored, patient-focused approach to help you find the right remedy for your dry skin as soon as possible.

The Bottom Line on Dry Winter Skin

Dealing with dry skin in the winter can be a hassle, but with the right skin care routine and a little help from our team, you can keep your skin healthy year-round. 

Reach out to schedule your consultation and create your personalized winter skin care plan.