When the temperatures drop, the air becomes drier and we spend more time in heated rooms, our skin is often the first to feel it: it becomes tight, chapped and prone to itching. Dry skin in winter is a widespread problem that affects many people regardless of age or skin type. But why does the skin suffer particularly in the cold season and how can you gently support it?
Why does the skin become dry in winter?
Our skin has a natural protective barrier that stores moisture and protects it from external influences. In winter, however, the balance of this barrier is easily upset. This is usually for the following reasons:
- Cold outside: At low temperatures, the blood vessels constrict, the skin is supplied with less blood and produces less sebum. As a result, the natural oil film that locks in moisture is missing.
- Heating air indoors: Warm, dry air draws additional moisture from the skin, which quickly feels rough and tight.
- Showering too often: Very hot water and aggressive cleansing products weaken the skin barrier and increase the feeling of dryness.
Typical signs of dry winter skin
Dry skin in winter manifests itself in several small changes that often occur on the face and ensure that the skin’s well-being needs to be restored. The first warning sign is usually an unpleasant feeling of tightness that occurs immediately after showering or washing your hands. The skin feels less elastic and appears unusually tight.
In addition, there are rough or scaly patches, which are particularly noticeable on the shins, elbows or hands. The skin lacks lipids in these areas, which means it can no longer retain sufficient moisture.
Many of those affected also suffer from itching or skin irritationwhich are exacerbated by cold, dry air or clothing made from coarse fabrics. If the skin becomes very dry, small cracks or fine lines can form, which can be painful and increase the risk of inflammation.
The hands, face and lips are particularly sensitive. As these areas of the body are more exposed to the cold in winter, cracks or torn corners of the mouth can quickly develop and heal with difficulty without the right care.
What helps against dry skin in winter?
With the right measures, you can do a lot to keep your skin supple and healthy even in the cold season. A combination of gentle cleansing, rich care and small everyday tips is crucial.
- Gentle cleaning
Even if a hot shower is particularly tempting on cold days, it is harmful to the skin. High water temperatures and aggressive cleansing products remove valuable lipids and weaken the skin’s natural protective barrier. We therefore recommend short showers with lukewarm water and the use of mild, skin-friendly cleansers.
- Rich moisturizing care
Especially in winter, the skin needs nourishing formulations that provide both moisture and lipids. Moisture ensures that the skin remains firm and elastic, while lipids act like a protective film and retain water in the cells. Especially those who struggle with dry skin on their face in winter should use products such as skinicer® REPAIR CREME . It moisturizes the skin and supports cell regeneration.
- Protection in cold weather
Cold, wind and temperature fluctuations are particularly hard on the skin in winter. It is therefore important to protect sensitive areas such as the hands and face. Scarves, gloves or protective creams rich in oil form an additional barrier against the cold air.
- Increase humidity
Heating quickly dries out the air in rooms, which has a direct effect on the skin. Simple measures such as regular ventilation, water containers on the heating or the use of a humidifier can noticeably improve the humidity.
- Drink enough
A stable moisture balance is largely dependent on adequate hydration. Drinking 1.5 to 2 liters of water or unsweetened tea per day helps to ensure that the skin is supplied with sufficient moisture. This keeps it more elastic and makes it less sensitive to dry winter air.
Ocean Pharma – support with the power of algae
Ocean Pharma relies on natural active ingredients for skin care. The focus is on the patented microalgae active ingredient Spiralin®which strengthens the skin barrier, moisturizes and protects against external influences.
This is a particular advantage in the cold season:
- For dry skin: Spiralin® supports regeneration and helps to reduce feelings of tightness.
- For sensitive skin: The gentle formulations soothe the skin without putting additional strain on it.
Whether for the face, hands or particularly stressed areas of the body: Ocean Pharma products combine scientifically proven effectiveness with the power of nature to provide gentle support in winter.
Conclusion: Get through the winter well with conscious care
Having dry skin in winter is not a fate, but a sign that the skin needs more attention. With a combination of gentle cleansing, rich care and protection against external influences, you can do a lot for your skin’s well-being.
The care with natural active ingredients such as Spiralin® helps to strengthen the skin barrier and retain moisture in the long term. This keeps the skin supple, protected and resistant even in the cold season.
Because if you give your skin the right care, you will feel better even in ice, snow and dry heating air.
FAQ
Experten-Tipp entstand in Zusammenarbeit mit:
Patrick Günther
Patrick Günther completed his pharmacy studies in Hamburg and, after obtaining his licence to practise, worked for several years in marketing and sales in the pharmaceutical industry. In 2003, he took over ocean pharma, the company founded by his father in Reinbek near Hamburg in 1978. Together with his business partner, he patented the important processing and standardisation process for the microalgae active ingredient Spiralin® and developed a wide range of medical cosmetics and foot care products based on Spiralin®.
