Winter skin care: How to keep your skin healthy and hydrated

In the middle of winter, a morning shower feels great... until you get out. Then it’s all about drying off and getting into those winter layers as quickly as possible. However, in our haste to rug up, we could be neglecting the most important layer: our skin.   

In the colder months, you might notice your skin is drier than normal or, if you have a pre-existing skin condition, you could be flaring up. This can make winter skin not just uncomfortable, but potentially painful. Just like a lot of areas of our health, there are seasonal considerations. For our skin, it’s giving it a little more TLC through winter. We spoke to Dr Cedric Ng Liet Hing from hub.health about skin health problems that can show up (or get worse) in winter, and how to keep your skin healthy and happy when the cold hits.  

During winter, there are much lower humidity levels in the air. This means your skin doesn’t retain as much moisture as it does in the warmer months. The level of discomfort this causes varies from person to person, and if you have a pre-existing skin condition, it can make the symptoms more severe. Some of the most common skin challenges in winter are: 

Dry skin 

Our skin consists of three layers: the inner layer is subcutaneous fat (the fat underneath the skin that gives our body plumpness), then the dermis with our blood vessels, nerves and sweat glands, and on top is the epidermis, which is the skin’s protective layer. As we age and as environmental factors such as sun damage occur, the cells separate from the surface and break away. The more this layer is intact, the softer and moisture-absorbent our skin is. Winter’s low humidity (and moving often from the outside cold to the inside warmth) is another factor that causes separation, resulting in flaking, itching, cracking and dry skin.  

Dry skin is irritating and uncomfortable but can be ​managed and easily treated​. Using hydrating moisturiser on your skin (particularly after a hot shower, where the heat would contribute to the dryness), stay hydrated, and keep your showers short and warm (not scalding hot).   

Eczema 

​​Eczema is a skin condition​ that, although can be triggered by environmental factors, is the result of an overactive immune system that affects the skin’s barrier. The symptoms of eczema include dry, flaky, itchy, inflamed skin that can be mild and localised to one area of your body, or very painful and over large portions of your skin.  

“Eczema flare-ups are more common in winter due to the dry air and low humidity levels,” says Cedric. “The lack of moisture in the air can cause the skin to dry out quickly leading to a weakening in the skin’s barrier function. Irritants and aeroallergens penetrate the skin leading to inflammation and exacerbation of skin conditions such as eczema.”  

Eczema usually presents as a red, itchy and scaly patch that mainly affects the elbow creases, the back of the neck and knees. There is ​no cure for eczema, however, it is usually treated​ with prescription steroid creams, antibiotics and some moisturising products.  

“When treating severe eczema flare-ups, opt for a fatty ointment instead of a cream,” says Cedric. “They trap moisture and penetrate deeper into your skin, leading to better and longer-lasting effects.” 

If eczema continues to bother you, worsen, or affect your daily life and mental wellbeing, it's important to seek medical advice. As a nib member, you can consult with a medical team based in Australia through our partnership with hub.health. You can either schedule an online consultation or manage your treatments online and have them delivered straight to your door. 

Get started with an online consultation. 

“Don't let winter weather wreak havoc on your skin,” advises Cedric. “By following these tips and seeking professional advice when needed, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and radiant all season long.” 

Cedric suggests: 

Hydrate 

Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining skin hydration from within. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin moisturised and healthy.

Moisturise 

Use a rich, emollient moisturiser to lock in moisture and protect your skin from harsh environmental factors. Look for products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which help retain moisture in the skin.  

Avoid scalding showers 

While a hot shower may feel comforting in the cold weather, it can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Opt for lukewarm water and limit your shower time to prevent further damage to your skin barrier. 

Use sunscreen 

Although the UV index is lower during the winter months, using sunscreen every day is a must for all Australians given the high incidence of skin cancers including melanoma. 

Personalise your routine 

Our health partner hub.health provides a combination of prescription and non-prescription skincare products tailored to your individual needs. Following a consultation with one of their clinicians, they can assess and manage your skin. 

If you're dealing with persistent skin issues or conditions like eczema, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional. Your GP can recommend suitable treatments and skincare routines tailored to your needs. With our health partner hub.health, you can conveniently access expert advice and get treatments delivered straight to your door, ensuring optimal and hassle-free care for your skin. 

The information in this article is general in nature and should not replace personalised advice provided by your health professional.