With the onset of winter, the skin suddenly becomes more sensitive: dryness, redness, tightness, and flaking appear. The reason is not only the frost—temperature fluctuations and low humidity make the skin vulnerable.
Dermatologist Rosemary Coleman explains how to help your skin survive the cold season without unpleasant consequences.
Why Skin Suffers in Winter
As noted by RTÉ, in winter, the outdoor air becomes cold and dry, while indoors it is warm and dehydrated due to heating. In such conditions, the skin loses moisture much faster, leading to dullness, decreased elasticity, and sensitivity.
To reduce stress on the skin, it is important to create a "protective barrier" through proper winter care.
Multi-Step Protection: What to Add
The first essential step is SPF. Even on cloudy days, ultraviolet rays reach the skin's surface, so the dermatologist recommends applying sunscreen every day using the so-called "three-finger dose."
The next steps in winter care should include:
- a thicker cream
- a serum with hyaluronic acid
- a moisturizing mask once a week
In rooms with working radiators, the expert suggests a simple life hack: place a container of water next to the heat source to increase humidity.
Don't Complicate Your Care
In winter, there is no need to drastically change your makeup bag. It is enough to:
- add a nighttime lip balm
- use hand cream before bed
- enhance hydration in facial care
Such easy adjustments help the skin cope better with the cold months.
Why Lips Crack More Than Other Areas
The skin on the lips is the thinnest and loses moisture quickly—especially if a person breathes through their mouth, frequently licks their lips, or is exposed to the wind. The condition of the lips can also be affected by certain medications, such as acne treatments.
If painful cracks appear, the dermatologist recommends a short course of antibacterial ointment, such as "Fucidin"—a few times a day for about a week.
Is It True That Lip Balm Creates Dependency?
No. The dermatologist emphasizes that balms do not dry out the lips and do not cause dependency. A person simply becomes accustomed to the comfortable feeling of moisturized skin, making its usual dryness seem more pronounced.
Winter care is not about complicated rituals, but rather a few consistent steps for protection. Regular moisturizing, gentle care, and protection from the cold will help the skin remain calm and comfortable even in freezing months.
