Taking Care of Your Dry Skin in Winter

The winter weather can wreak havoc on our skin. It can be even worse if you have sensitive skin to begin with. It’s important not to ignore the beginning signs of dry skin, since it can quickly become flaky and cracked if ignored. Cracked skin can lead to pain, bleeding and even skin infections. Here are some ways to take care of your dry skin in the wintertime.

Stock Up on Good Quality Lotions, Creams and Moisturizers

Lotion is an absolute must in the winter. You’ll find that you need to moisturize much more often than you do the rest of the year. Having several bottles of good quality moisturizer or cream in your house, in your car and in your purse or backpack will keep you prepared. Apply it on your hands and forearms several times a day, as those are the areas that tend to get the driest. But also apply to your whole body right after a hot shower, that will ensure your skin will stay moisturized longer. The pharmacy near me has a great selection of lotions, creams and moisturizers, and I can also consult the pharmacists there for the products that suit my skin. If needed, they also offer skin compounding service, providing compounded medications with specific strengths, dosages and forms for skin conditions such as eczyma and psoriasis.

pumping lotion on hand

Don’t Forget About the Kiddos

Kids tend to get incredibly dry skin in the winter, and may not think or be able to tell you. Be sure you’re applying lotion daily to sensitive areas. Always check the ingredients and try to use unscented or undyed when possible. And don’t forget the diaper cream!

Beware of Irritants

Dry flaky skin can be especially sensitive to irritants. So it’s important to be aware of what kind of products you’re using on your laundry in the winter time. If you use a wash and fold service, or take items to the dry cleaner, be sure to let them know about your sensitive skin and allergies.

Aging Skin Can be Particularly Dry and Sensitive

If you are caring for an elderly family member, be sure to keep their skin moisturized in the winter time as well. Any home caregivers or medical help should be aware of any sensitivities or allergies your loved one has. Keep an eye out for reactions from certain products.

Dry skin can be a nuisance, but by taking a few extra steps in the winter, you can keep your skin soft and moisturized.

Dealing with Skin Allergies

So many Americans are affected by skin allergies, so much so that skin allergy remedies are a lucrative industry. Different factors can make skin allergies worse like weather, pollen and common airborne allergens. Here are some tips for those dealing with skin allergies.

Check With Your Local Pharmacy

Skin allergies are sometimes tricky to treat since they vary so much from person to person. Check with a compounding pharmacy about medications specifically for your individual needs. Compounded medications for skin will be specially formulated for you by type and dosage, so you’ll get the quickest most reliable results.

fingers scooping moisturizing cream

Be Aware of What Fabrics Irritate Your Skin

You may be unaware that some of the clothing you wear regularly is irritating your sensitive skin. It could be the fabric itself, or the detergent you’ve been using to wash them. Always look for “free and clear” detergents that don’t contain any dyes or perfumes. Additionally, look for a local green dry cleaner nearby that tailors to those with sensitive skin. Ask for no fragrances and hypoallergenic products. 

Check With Your Doctor

Sometimes skin allergies could be pointing to a more serious health problem. If your skin suddenly becomes dry or irritated, its best to have it checked out by your doctor or dermatologist. Raised rashes, odd-shaped markings or irritation paired with fevers should always be checked by a medical professional right away.

Moisturize Frequently

Dry weather or heat can bring on skin allergies, especially if you’re already prone to dry skin. To avoid this, I always keep my skin moisturized with a natural, perfume-free lotion or oil. I like to buy lotions and creams specifically formulated for sensitive skin at a local drugstore near me, which also can fill prescriptions from my dermatologist. Older people also tend to have dry skin, so family caregivers or professional home health aides should also take care to keep their loved one or client’s skin moisturized.

Skin allergies are a pain, but they don’t have to be. Take care of your skin and take care of each other.