Tips and Tricks for Healthy Winter Skin

EducationHealthResources
Written By Jaime Plude

Winter Skin Care Tips

Winter can be tough on our skin, especially for those living in rural areas like western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee. The cold, dry air can cause many skin problems, but there are ways to protect your skin and keep it healthy. Here are some common winter skin issues and tips to help you take care of your skin.

Common Winter Skin Issues

Dry Skin

  • What it is: Skin that feels rough, tight, or flaky.

  • Why it happens: Cold, dry air can strip moisture from your skin.

  • What you can do: Use a good moisturizer every day. Apply it right after you shower to lock in moisture. Look for products without fragrances, as these can irritate your skin.

Chapped Lips

  • What it is: Lips that are dry, cracked, or peeling.

  • Why it happens: Lips lose moisture quickly in cold weather.

  • What you can do: Use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the sun and wind. Apply it often throughout the day. Avoid wetting your lips, as this can actually make them dry out faster!

Cracked Hands

  • What it is: Skin on your hands that is dry and may crack or bleed.

  • Why it happens: Working outside on a farm or in the garden can expose your hands to harsh conditions.

  • What you can do: Wear gloves when working outside. Use a thick hand cream before bed and cover your hands with cotton gloves to help the cream soak in overnight. Avoid picking at or peeling cracked skin.

Eczema and Psoriasis

  • What it is: Red, itchy patches of skin that can flare up in winter.

  • Why it happens: Dry air can trigger these conditions.

  • What you can do: Keep your skin moisturized and avoid hot showers, which can dry out your skin even more. Use gentle, fragrance-free products. Contact the Community Care Clinic if you have eczema or psoriasis that won't get better, free and affordable medications are available.

Chillblains

  • What it is: Small, itchy, red patches that can appear on your fingers and toes.

  • Why it happens: Exposure to cold and then sudden warmth can cause these.

  • What you can do: Keep your hands and feet warm and dry. Avoid sudden changes in temperature. If you need assistance with getting appropriate winter clothing, contact our Community Resource Center intern by clicking HERE.

Tips for Healthy Winter Skin

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

  • Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air in your home can help prevent dry skin.

  • Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can strip your skin of natural oils. Use warm water instead.

  • Protect Your Skin: Wear gloves, scarves, and hats to protect your skin from the cold and wind.

When to Seek Help

If your skin problems don't go away or get in the way of your daily activities, it's important to seek help. The Community Care Clinic in Boone, NC, offers free healthcare services for low-income, uninsured individuals. Our clinic provides dermatology services to help with skin issues. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.

Community Care Clinic Services:

  • Primary Care

  • Dermatology

  • Diabetes Education

  • Physical Therapy

  • And more!

For more information or to make an appointment, call us at (828) 265-8591.

Taking care of your skin in winter is important, especially if you live in rural areas where the weather can be harsh. By following these tips and seeking help when needed, you can keep your skin healthy and comfortable all winter long.

Jaime Plude
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