Dry skin in winter: This really helps!

2023-11-01 04:15:00

As soon as the heating season begins, the humidity in the interior drops – our skin doesn’t like that at all,” says Alex J. Kilbertus, dermatologist from Wels and head of the skin and venereal diseases section of the Medical Association for Upper Austria. Typical consequences of the heating season: dry, itchy and flaky skin. “First of all, you should make sure there is enough humidity in the rooms, especially in the bedroom and living room. This should be between 40 and 60 percent. If it’s too low, a humidifier or wet laundry can help,” says Kilbertus. But sufficient moisture doesn’t just have to come from outside. “As usual, you should definitely drink two to three liters of water a day.”

Soap-free products: Dry skin itches, flakes and feels tight all over the body. If there is a lack of moisture, small cracks can occur, especially on fingers, elbows, knees and feet. These areas are more permeable to germs, bacteria and fungi. With the right care, the skin can be prevented from drying out even in winter. Gentle, soap-free products (syndets whose pH value corresponds to that of the skin) or moisturizing shower oils are suitable.
No water that is too hot: “Shower for a maximum of five to ten minutes; avoid using water that is too hot, as this washes away the skin’s own oils,” advises the dermatologist. After showering, you should apply a moisturizing ointment. The following applies here: the fatter, the better. Since a fatty coating forms a good barrier layer, irritants are kept away from the skin. Pure body milk with a high water content is more pleasant to apply, but only contains moisture and therefore only helps for a short time – sometimes just a few minutes.
Good nutrition: With the right diet, the skin can be strengthened from within. Vegetable oils from linseed, chia seeds or hemp nourish the skin from the inside with essential omega-3 fatty acids. It’s best to eat fatty fish, avocados and salads with the right oils.
No tight clothing: Avoid clothing that rubs against the skin and causes skin irritation. Wear loose, soft materials, preferably cotton.
Appointment with a dermatologist: If reddened eczema occurs, inflammation of the top layer of skin, you should definitely consult a dermatologist to rule out skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis (neurodermatitis) or psoriasis (psoriasis).