Why Does Skin Get Itchy When It’s Cold

While it’s always a good idea to see a doctor when you encounter skin related problems, most of them can be easily solved with proper care. Dry, itchy skin is frequently preventable and treatable by using the following methods:

1. Moisturize.

1. Moisturize.

1. Moisturize.

Simply said, it cannot be emphasized enough. Apply an extra coat of cream or lotion, even if your skin already feels supple and hydrated.

Lotions aren’t as moisturizing as creams, but they may still be useful. If ointments are more your style, that’s totally OK, too. It’s as simple as rubbing them in well and using them often, even before your skin feels dry.

Your skin may break and get infected if the dry air of winter is more effective at removing moisture from your skin than you are. Though eczema sufferers are more likely to experience this, normal-skinned persons might still get it if they don’t take care to keep their skin hydrated.

Some skin disorders become more obvious and severe during the winter months. At first glance, psoriasis and eczema, which are the two most frequent of these illnesses, may seem to be nothing more than dry skin, but that’s not always the case.

Eczema refers to a set of disorders that cause redness, itching, and inflammation of the skin. Flare-ups may be triggered by a variety of factors, but one of those factors is air that is dry and chilly.

Psoriasis patients may have red areas that are also silvery and scaly, and their skin may be thicker and more irritated than people with eczema. Psoriasis and eczema symptoms are quite similar.

These two problems are not made worse by cold temperatures per se; rather, you may blame the dry air that comes along with cold temperatures on being the cause of the problem.

If you notice any change in your skin, no matter how little it may seem, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist or a primary care physician as soon as possible. This is particularly important if the change is making you feel uncomfortable or worried.

If your skin is just itchy and dry, you may want to evaluate if recent changes in your surroundings or the items you use in the shower might be contributing to the dryness of your skin. It could help a great deal to moisturize more often or to switch to a soap that is more effective in hydrating the skin. (Dove for Sensitive Skin, Cetaphil cleanser, Cerave cleanser, Aquaphor Gentle Wash, and Vanicream cleansing bars are examples of mild soaps that are not likely to irritate your skin.)

It is highly recommended that you see a medical professional if the condition of your skin does not improve or if it becomes worse.

If you have been diagnosed with eczema or psoriasis, a dermatologist will be able to assist you in locating the appropriate therapies to minimize the severity of your symptoms. Some people find that prescription ointments or even specialized forms of light therapy are the most effective therapies for their condition.