This useful advice from the National Rosacea Society will help your skin breeze through the winter months
Does your skin change or play up when the weather gets cold and windy? You may well find that it does, especially if your skin is reactive or
rosacea-prone.
The outermost layer of skin, known as the stratum corneum, functions as a
barrier to defend your body against environmental threats such as sun, wind, dry air, allergens and pollution, while simultaneously protecting your body’s critical moisture balance.
So how do you know if your skin's barrier is in need of repair? You might experience
inflammation, itching and redness. The skin barrier in those affected by
rosacea is often disrupted, leaving them more susceptible to dryness and irritation that could lead to a flare-up.
The dry air that comes along with winter weather can wreak havoc on rosacea-prone skin. Outdoor humidity levels drop because cold air can’t retain as much moisture as warm air, while indoor heating systems further exacerbate the dry environment.
Here are some tips to get you through the winter months:
Apply moisturiser regularly
Dermatologists recommend regular use of
moisturiser to prevent the burning, stinging, itching and irritation associated with rosacea and to build a strong moisture barrier to help keep out irritants that may aggravate
sensitive skin.
Stay hydrated
Studies have shown that an impaired skin barrier allows more water to evaporate through the skin, leading to
dehydration, burning and itching. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to replace the lost moisture and help repair your skin.
Use a humidifier
While our heating systems increase the temperature, they don’t add any moisture to the air. Ideally, indoor humidity should be between 30 per cent and 50 per cent. If indoor heat creates a dry environment in your house, consider using a humidifier to keep the air moist.
Wear a scarf
When spending time outdoors, even briefly, wear a scarf to help protect your face from the effects of wind and harsh weather. Make sure to pull the scarf up over your nose before you go outside and choose a fabric that both keeps the air out and feels good against your skin.
Don’t forget the sunscreen
Studies have found that UV light exposure can damage skin barrier function the year round. Look for
non-chemical sunscreens that contain zinc or titanium dioxide and deliver UVA/UVB protection with an SPF of 30 or higher. A combination moisturiser-sunscreen can help keep skin from drying out as well.
By Etre Vous
.png)