Small cracks in the skin and bleeding can also occur.
Fortunately, winter itch can be prevented or at least treated in those who are at higher risk.
Frequent and aggressive moisturizing can help, as can a humidifier, lukewarm water, and more.
Winter itch is brought on by cold, dry air that pulls moisture out of your skin.
It also does not cause a rash.
Skin affected by winter itch generally appears healthy but slightly dry.
Winter itch occurs in the fall and winter, and clears up in the summer months.
It can affect any part of the body but is most commonly foundon the legs.
Age
As we age, our skin tends to thin and become drier.
This puts older people at higher risk for developing irritated, dry skin in the winter.
Environmental factors like temperature can further exacerbate that problem.
Chronic skin conditions likeeczemaandpsoriasiscan be exacerbated by cold, dry air.
Talk with your dermatologist about how to protect your skin and treat any flare-ups during the winter.
Causes of Winter Itch
The exact cause of winter itch is unknown.
We know it is triggered by cold, dry air.
Weather
Cold weather causes or exacerbates dry skin because of the lack of moisture in the air.
Its also possible to experience winter itch in warmer months if youre spending time indoors.
Unfortunately, that hot water will leave your skin more irritated than before.
Hot water strips your skin of its natural oils, causing dryness and redness.
This is why its so helpful to apply a moisturizer after showering or washing your hands.
Your skin is especially dry and needs to have that moisture replenished.
Chemicals
Exposure to chemicals can also contribute to dry skin in the winter months.
The chlorine in swimming pools is another chemical that dries out the skin.
To fight dry winter skin, keep a water bottle with you at all times.
When you are well hydrated, your skin has access to more of the moisture it needs.
Examples include fish, flaxseed, and walnuts.
Omega-3 fats help cells hold onto moisture.
Reach for fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds for better skin.
To know if its winter itch, pay careful attention to when it started and what makes it worse.
Prevention
Preventing winter itch involves helping your skin retain as much moisture as possible.
Ointments, oils, and creams can be more effective and less irritating than lotions.
Examples include shea butter, petroleum jelly, lanolin, jojoba oil, and mineral oil.
Its best to avoid over-the-counter itch-suppressing creams, though they sound helpful.
They are often made with chemicals that could make winter itch worse.
If you are spending time outdoors, keep a small tube of moisturizer with you.
Outcome
Winter itch received its name because it usually only occurs in the winter months.
You may experience a single bout of winter itch, or it could last all winter.
Winter itch has a high rate of recurrence because winter comes around every year.
As soon as the weather starts to cool, start moisturizing regularly.
The dry skin that results from this condition is often very itchy, which can lead to scratching.
If you find yourself scratching your dry skin, youll be more at risk for bleeding and infection.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, involves patches of red, scaly, itchy skin.
It is usually due to sensitive skin and can flare up when exposed to cold, dry air.
Psoriasis is an immune condition characterized by thick patches of itchy, silvery, dry skin.
Exposure to the cold can worsen the symptoms.
Small cracks in the skin and bleeding can also occur.
If dryness, redness, or irritation worsens, meet with a healthcare provider for an evaluation.
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These tips from dermatologists may help.
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