Although there are hundreds of different skin issues and ailments, there are a few that consistently present to dermatologists and GPs around Australia when the mercury drops. While some skin care issues that immediately spring to mind are breakouts and blemishes, it appears that there’s more to skincare than troublesome complexions, especially during winter. Dr Eleni Yiasemides is a Consulting Dermatologist at SouthDerm and is a Dermeze Ambassador. According to Dr Eleni, there are five common skin care issues that plague the average Aussie during winter, and she has some advice on how to avoid, or fix, them.
1. Dry skin
“The cold dry weather often worsens dry skin during winter. Heaters and air conditioners used for warming often exacerbate the dryness. Using a soap-free cleanser in the shower or bath, keeping hot showers short, and applying a good moisturiser to keep the skin hydrated – are really important during winter.”
“In winter, I also recommend using a richer, thicker moisturiser compared to summer times. Dry skin also exacerbates a common skin disease – eczema. Eczema flare-ups tend to be worse in winter. Using a soap-free cleanser and rich moisturiser plays a vital role in keeping eczema under control. These simple methods improve the barrier of the skin, prevent water loss from the skin and help break the cycle of eczema.”
2. Itchy skin
“Itchy skin is often a direct result of the dry skin. Most people don’t realise this! The best time to moisturise the skin is after a shower or bath as the skin is most receptive to the moisturiser at this time. Look for moisturisers that are hypoallergenic and free from irritating ingredients. Often the best moisturisers are affordable and available at the chemist or supermarket.”
3. Excessive sweating of armpits (axillary hyperhidrosis)
“Although it is cooler in winter, with additional layers of clothing on, many sufferers of axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the armpits) will complain their sweating is worse during winter and very embarrassing. The sweating is not physiological but abnormal. That is, the sufferer is not sweating to help cool down the body from excessive heat – they are just sweating excessively for no particular reason. Fortunately, we have great treatments including Botox injections for this problem which is highly effective.”
4. Acne
“Acne is often better in summer with natural sunlight and saltwater (and fun!) at the beach playing an anti-inflammatory role, improving the appearance of pimples. During winter we are often under stress with work or school, in addition to less time spent outdoors in the sun. Acne flare ups tend to be worse during winter. Fortunately, there are lots of very effective treatments for acne these days ranging from creams to tablets. See your dermatologist for individual advice and care.”
5. Facial Flushing
“People who are prone to rosacea often find that the cold harsh environment really bad for their skin. The change in moving between the cold outside and warmth inside a building, for example, can flare up rosacea and facial flushing. Using a gentle soap-free cleanser and a non-comedogenic moisturiser will help to improve the barrier of the skin in rosacea and hence reduce flare ups. Just like in eczema, looking after the barrier of the skin is vitally important in preventing rosacea flare ups.”
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