Every November, my clinic fills with the same complaint:
“Doctor, my skin feels tight, itchy and rough, even though I’m applying cream.”
Winter dryness is not just about the changing weather. It is often the result of a weakened skin barrier. Once you understand what is happening to your skin, managing it becomes much simpler.
Why Your Skin Suffers in Winter
The outermost layer of your skin works like a brick wall. Skin cells act as the bricks, while natural fats such as ceramides form the cement that holds everything together and prevents moisture from escaping.
Cold air, low humidity, room heaters and long hot baths gradually strip away these protective oils. As moisture escapes, the skin becomes dry, flaky, itchy and increasingly sensitive.
People with eczema, psoriasis, diabetes or thyroid conditions—as well as older adults—may experience these symptoms more severely.
Five Habits That Make Winter Dryness Worse
1. Taking Very Hot Baths
Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils. Use lukewarm water instead and keep your bath or shower under 10 minutes.
2. Using Harsh Soaps
Many regular bathing bars are alkaline and can make dryness worse. Switch to a mild, soap-free or syndet cleanser.
3. Rubbing Your Skin With a Towel
Rubbing can irritate already-sensitive skin. Gently pat your skin dry and leave it slightly damp before applying moisturiser.
4. Moisturising Only Once a Day
Dry skin usually needs moisturiser at least twice daily. Apply it more frequently to areas such as the hands, feet, elbows and knees.
5. Sitting Too Close to a Heater
Room heaters reduce moisture in the surrounding air. Using a humidifier or keeping a bowl of water in the room may help maintain humidity.
A Simple Winter Skincare Routine
1. Cleanse Gently
Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser in the morning and at night. Avoid cleansers that leave your skin feeling stretched or tight.
2. Moisturise Within Three Minutes of Bathing
Applying moisturiser while your skin is still slightly damp helps lock in hydration. Look for ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, shea butter or petrolatum.
3. Continue Using Sunscreen
Winter sunlight can still contribute to tanning, pigmentation and premature skin ageing. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, even during colder months.
4. Add Night-Time Repair
Use a thicker moisturising cream before bedtime. Petroleum jelly can also be applied to dry lips, cracked heels and other severely dry areas.
5. Reduce Strong Actives if Your Skin Stings
Retinoids, AHAs, exfoliating acids and scrubs may cause additional irritation during peak winter. Reduce their frequency or use them on alternate nights if your skin becomes sensitive.
Caring for Your Lips, Hands and Heels
Avoid licking dry lips, as saliva can make them even drier. Apply a plain, fragrance-free lip balm several times throughout the day.
For cracked heels, soak your feet in lukewarm water for approximately 10 minutes. Pat them dry, apply a urea-based foot cream and wear cotton socks overnight.
Reapply hand cream after washing your hands and before going to bed.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
Consult a dermatologist if:
Itching regularly disturbs your sleep.
You develop persistent red or scaly patches.
Your skin develops painful cracks or starts bleeding.
Moisturisers do not improve the dryness.
A child develops rough, itchy patches on the cheeks, elbows or behind the knees.
These symptoms may indicate eczema or another underlying skin condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment—not just a moisturiser.
Need Help With Winter Dryness?
Struggling with dry, itchy or sensitive skin this winter?
Book a consultation at Derma With Me Clinic and get a personalised winter skincare routine created for your skin.
Product information is for general education and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare professional.