by Joseph B. Schneider DO   November 7, 2023

When I was in residency in Detroit, Michigan, my friend and colleague wore shorts pretty much year-round.  He simply tolerated the cold better than most people.  Different people tolerate cold temperatures differently.  The same can be said about different skin types.  Some folks’ skin just does better in the winter than others.  For instance, those who have eczema tend to have a harder time in the winter.  The decreased humidity causes us to lose moisture, causing the skin to dry out even more.  Those with rosacea often have a more difficult time with their condition due to cold wind and the irritant effect of going from cold (outside) to warm (inside) repeatedly.  Psoriasis is improved by natural sunlight, so in those winter months when the sun barely gets above the horizon before disappearing again, those with psoriasis generally flare.  Even those of us without a medical skin condition who generally have very little problems with their skin will be affected to some degree by the changing seasons. 

Winter recommendations are very similar to the recommendations given to those with sensitive skin.

• Improve your moisturizer game. Creams, rather than lotions, tend to do a better job of locking in moisture. Ointments are even better but are not always tolerated well due to the feel or the possibility of causing or worsening acne or folliculitis.  Triple Lipid Restore by SkinCeuticals® is my winter favorite go-to.  You may also consider using a more moisturizing cleanser (rather than harsh foaming cleansers).  I like Milky Lotion Cleanser by Epionce®. 
• Take care of those lips. Cold wind can be especially damaging to the lips. I like using Aquaphor® healing ointment for my lips while inside and a lip balm with SPF if I am spending time outdoors.  I recommend Jane Iredale LipDrink® Lip Balm SPF 30.
• Watch the sun. You don’t have to be on a beach in summertime for the sun to harm your skin. Sometimes, mid-winter can be the most dangerous time.  Your skin has lost some natural melanin pigment from lack of sun.  If a sunny day comes along, or if there is snow on the ground, the UV rays will be comparatively more intense and can cause a lot of damage.  Physical sunscreen with Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide are superior and possibly safer.