The Winter Of Our “DisSkintent”

It is that time of year when “winter skin” starts to become a problem.

Winter skin is dry, cracked skin that appears as the air becomes cold and dry.
The problem can range from run-of-the-mill dry skin to the more serious conditions like psoriasis where the body overproduces skin cells that appears as scaly patches, and eczema that presents as a rash.

Dermatologists advise limiting hot showers in the winter months, and ditching abrasive wash clothes. Instead, they recommend short warm water baths which are gentler on the skin. Hot water, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, leaches natural oils from the skin.

The Academy also recommends moisturizing immediately after bathing. “Ointments and creams are most effective for trapping water in the skin. It is best to apply one of these emollients right after bathing while the skin is still moist,” the Academy says. “This will make bathing a moisturizing experience, rather than a drying experience. When the skin becomes completely dry after washing, some of its natural moisture is lost through evaporation. To keep skin moist, apply emollient throughout the day as needed.”

And while the weather is still somewhat condusive to outdoor sports like fall t-ball, baseball and football, don’t forget the sunscreen. The Academy’s “Be Sun Smart” campaign promotes strategies for reducing the risk of skin cancer. They include:

• Applying water-resistant sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15.

• Wearing protective clothing such as shirts with long sleeves, hats and sunglasses.

• Staying in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.

• Using extra caution near water, snow and sand because they can reflect the damaging rays of the sun, increasing the risk of sunburn.

• Avoid tanning beds.

• And getting Vitamin D in a healthy diet.

• Checking your birthday suit...on your birthday for any areas that are changing, growing or bleeding. Seek help from dermatologist if you see anything suspicious.


Kathy A. Gambrell
Founder
Chesapeake Bay Bath and Body.com