Dry skin, eczema and surviving the cooler months

The cold, dry air of Winter can play havoc with our skin, especially combined with heating, reduced sunlight and hot showers, leaving it dehydrated, dry and itchy. Scratching can cause it to become inflamed and may develop into eczema, which looks red, thickened and with a rash. We look at three keys to minimise dry skin.

1. Finding triggers

Keep a symptom diary, including foods and other possible irritants to uncover what triggers flare-ups. Common irritants include foods (dairy, soy, beef, chicken, nuts, oranges, strawberries, wheat, seafood and colours), stress, weather changes, woollen clothing, perfumes and chemicals. Excessive contact with water and irritation from soaps and detergents, infections, overheating and genetics can also be factors.

Choose cotton, loose fitting clothing against your skin, allowing it to breath without overheating and avoid scratching.  

2. Improving the condition of your skin

Choose foods high in antioxidants and natural oils - berries, avocados, fatty fish, raw nuts and seeds. Supplement with vitamin A, B3, B7 and D to increase the production of proteins and ceramides and maintain the integrity of the skin barrier.

Use soap substitutes that won't strip the skin and turn down the shower temperature. While the skin is damp, apply a good moisturiser liberally 2-3 times a day to reduce itch and dryness. We recommend Avène’s XeraCalm cream to soothe and moisturise.

3. Treat inflamed areas

If the skin starts to become inflamed, eczema is developing. Corticosteroid creams and ointments are available from your pharmacist or doctor to reduce inflammation. Eczema is more likely to recur if insufficient steroids are used or they are stopped too early, so apply as directed, until the skin is clear (usually 7-14 days). Side effects such as skin thinning from using topical products for short periods are very rare. Drowsy antihistamines may also be used to help with disturbed sleep from itchy skin. Infections should be treated if present.