Brits have been urged to do one thing to help prevent itchy skin this month. With temperatures dropping, central heating is being turned up higher, pushing our skin to the brink.
You may have noticed increased dryness, with flaking between the brows, scaling on the cheeks, and redness all over. This ‘winter skin’ can be dull, rough and sensitive, with conditions like eczema or rosacea flaring up much more easily. Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist and founder of Self London, calls this time of year a “perfect storm” for skin. With increased alcohol consumption, lack of sleep, cold weather, and central heating leaving us dehydrated and dry. Dr Mahto told The Telegraph: “Once the central heating is cranked up, humidity in the average UK home can plummet to 20% or 30%, which is drier than some deserts. In this environment, the air acts like a sponge, drawing moisture out of the outer skin layer.”
She added: “Warm indoor air also reduces blood flow to the skin. This means the skin is getting fewer nutrients at a time when it really needs them.”
Dr Mahto recommends placing bowls of water near radiators to “nudge the humidity back up”. The NHS recommends keeping your house at a comfortable temperature of 18C.
The dermatologist and the NHS also recommend keeping your skin hydrated to “restore what the environment removes” – moisture and lipids.
Dr Mahto said: “It’s not about heavy creams, but about rebuilding the skin’s natural barrier. I always encourage people to focus on replacing what the environment is removing.
“Gentle cleansing, moisturising and choosing formulas rich in ceramides and fatty acids can make a difference”
Be sure to avoid moisturisers and cleansers with harsh chemicals such as alcohol, sulphates, and heavy silicones. These can dry the skin out more. As can applying moisturiser without first gently exfoliating away dead skin cells, which will block absorption.
