Summer 2022 is a fond memory and for many people, so is smooth, supple skin they enjoyed during warm weather. Now that winter is here, dry and dehydrated skin is a common problem for many of our patients at Austin Clinic. Some are bothered by flare-ups of skin conditions including eczema and rosacea. Others have their first experience of dermatitis. If you don’t like the skin you’re in, our experts have simple solutions to help.
Why Acne Is a Problem in Winter
Acne is a skin condition often associated with oily skin and clogged pores. When winter rolls around, however, acne has a friend in cold air that dries skin. Rather than a build-up of oil, dead, dry skin cells are the source of the problem. Acne may also flare-up as a result of reduced time in the sun. “In winter, when UV light exposure tends to be low, the resulting bacterial and immune system shifts may make acne breakouts more common,” reports Time Magazine.
Cicalfate Restorative Skin Cream from Avene is an excellent choice for acne sufferers. The formulation is ideal for dry, cracked, compromised skin. It is gentle enough to use for nappy rash, making it perfect for sensitive, acne-prone facial skin. “Many of our patients use Cicalfate at home,” says Dr Austin. “It can improve the benefits of in-clinic acne treatments such as microneedling.”
Winter Body Bumps: Itchy Eczema
Eczema is a health problem characterised by itchy, scaly patches of skin most commonly found on the elbows, knees, hands, and face. Eczema dries out skin during any season, and winter’s cold air, harsh winds, and lower humidity can quickly aggravate itching, irritation, and redness.
“We have seen wonderful results with patients who use Calm & Protect, a powerful serum we had developed for the Austin Skin line,” explains Dr Austin. The formulation includes key ingredients such as zinc and niacinamide to reduce skin barrier permeability, reduce irritation, and lock in moisture. If the breakout is severe, there are steroids that can help relieve symptoms as well.
Red Rash of Rudolph
If you look like the famous red-nosed reindeer when Christmas is still months away, you may be suffering from winter rash. This is a general diagnosis of a condition with symptoms including tenderness, blisters, bumps, and cracked, scaly skin. Cold winter air and heavy winter clothing fabrics collaborate to cause redness and rashes.
“A series of V2 Booster treatments at the clinic can help combat many of the symptoms of winter rash,” says Dr Austin. Expert injectors use tiny microneedles to nourish skin with antioxidants and hyaluronic acid. “This helps to optimise the synthesis of DNA and increase collagen production in the skin,” says Dr Austin.
For Dry Skin: Drink This, Don’t Bathe In It
No, we’re not talking about your favourite Chablis. Water is the natural enemy of dryness and, therefore, your best friend during the winter. “Water and healthy, non-sugary beverages such as green tea replenish the moisture that evaporates through your skin in the winter,” explains Dr Austin. “Without hydration, your skin starts to look dry and cracked … like a leather handbag that wasn’t cared for.”
While you’re pouring all the good water into your body, be mindful about the water you put on your body. “A hot shower feels heavenly when you’re cold, but it strips your skin of its moisture,” warns Dr Austin. “It’s much better to take a warm shower and drink a nice cup of sugar-free hot chocolate.”
Are you having problems with a common or not-so-common winter skin condition? Help is just a phone call away. Please reach out to our friendly experts for help with taking the guesswork out of skincare. Contact us today for a prompt response.