Winter provides challenge for those with sensitive skin
For the Dudek family of McMurray, caring and preparing for dry skin that comes along with cold weather during the winter months has become a well-orchestrated routine.
Two of the three Dudek children, Sophia, 7, and Daniel, 4, have had eczema since they were infants so dry, itchy, irritated skin can be an issue for them at any time of the year – especially in the winter. For severe breakouts Sophia and Daniel have both been prescribed topical steroids and an oral antihistamine by their pediatric dermatologist to help combat the symptoms.
Even though Daniel’s twin sister, Alena, doesn’t have skin that is nearly as sensitive as her siblings’, parents Carolyn and Daniel Dudek include Alena in the dry skin regimen also by using an unscented body wash followed by an unscented daily moisturizer such as Aquaphor, Cerave or Cetaphil (Cerave and Cetaphil carry lines of both body washes and moisturizers.)
The Dudeks are also careful to use only enzyme-free laundry detergents such as All Free & Clear, to keep dry winter skin at bay.
“I definitely notice a difference in their skin once the cold weather starts,” said Carolyn Dudek. “If possible, we try to limit bathing to every other day when the weather is cold.”
The Dudeks know from experience that if they keep Sophia and Daniel’s skin from becoming too itchy and bothersome, they will not be tempted to scratch, which can cause infection and eventually require an antibiotic cream.
Dr. Elizabeth Juhas Froelich, a dermatologist at Vujevich Dermatology in Washington, said following a skin regimen similar to what the Dudek family practices is very important, especially for those with eczema or other skin conditions like psoriasis, which worsens from the lack of natural sunlight.
All skin types for people of all ages is prone to get dry and itchy in the winter because of low humidity, indoor heating and low outdoor temperatures according to Juhas Froelich. She said sometimes a skin barrier dysfunction can cause dryness, making the skin unable to retain adequate moisture.
“Older people have less natural ceramides in their skin than the average person,” said Juhas Froelich. “With an impaired skin barrier, the skin is more sensitive to irritants and allergens.”
To keep skin from getting dry and cracking, the doctor recommends taking a lukewarm shower, limited to less than 10 minutes. After showering, the skin should be patted dry (do not rub) and a moisturizer should be used within the first three minutes of showering. Lotions in a pump should be avoided during the winter because those that contain high water content are less effective.
“Opt for thick creams or ointments,” said Juhas Froelich. “Use cool mist humidifiers in the bedroom and avoid lip-licking – to keep them moist, a plain Vaseline can be used.”
In line with the Dudek regimen, she recommends avoiding scented or perfumed body washes and bubble baths and avoiding aggressive scrubs.
“Naturally, you should keep the skin covered when outdoors – wear gloves for hand protection,” said Juhas Froelich. “Patients should see a doctor if the skin begins to itch or bleed or begins to show signs of infection by becoming bright red, hot or very painful. A doctor’s care should also be sought if dry skin begins to affect the quality of daily life.”