Tips for caring for dry skin in winter

The cold winter air can be a challenge for our skin and often leads to dry, stressed skin. At this time of year, it is not only external conditions but also internal factors such as diet and hydration that are crucial to the skin's condition. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the causes of dry skin is essential.

Dry skin can have various symptoms, from itching and redness to scaly patches. A thorough diagnosis is important to identify the underlying causes, whether through physical examinations or targeted laboratory analysis. These findings are the key to developing effective care and treatment strategies.

In this article you will learn how to dry skin in winter, which products work best and which common questions arise in this context. It also explains the key ingredients in skincare products to help you make the best choices for your skin.

Causes of dry skin

Dry skin can be caused by a variety of factors, both internal and external. The symptoms range from mild roughness to severe signs of dryness. It is important to understand both the internal and external factors in order to provide the right treatment and care for the affected skin areas.

Internal factors

The internal condition of the skin plays a key role in its health and moisture levels. On the one hand, factors such as a lack of epidermal lipids, including ceramides and omega fatty acids, are critical to the structural integrity of the skin. These lipids form a protective film that maintains the balance between moisture and harmful environmental influences. Filaggrin, a protein essential for skin structure, also plays an important role. Its absence or inadequate production can lead to a disrupted skin barrier, which in turn can lead to the development of dry skin which in turn favors the development of dry skin.

Natural moisturizing factors (NMF) in the skin already say a lot about its level of hydration. The lack of these components, which act as a natural moisturizer, can greatly reduce the skin's ability to retain moisture and cause increased dryness.

In addition, genetic predisposition or existing conditions such as hereditary ichthyosis or diabetes can affect the skin's structure and its moisture balance. A lack of certain enzymes that are responsible for the renewal and cohesion of skin cells can also contribute to a reduced barrier function.

External factors

The environment plays a major role in the development of dry skin. Low humidity, cold weather and dry heating air are external factors that can stress the skin, especially in the winter months. This often leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which means that more water penetrates through the skin to the outside, making it drier and more cracked.

Excessive personal hygiene can also contribute to dehydration of the skin. Prolonged showering or bathing, especially in combination with aggressive soaps or cleansers, can disrupt the skin's natural hydrolipidic film and remove skin lipids. This weakens the skin's natural barrier function and makes it more susceptible to dryness.

It should also be noted that UV rays in summer can damage the skin's protective lipid barrier, which accelerates the evaporation process of moisture and thus leads to dry patches of skin. Proper treatment of these skin conditions can sometimes be aided by special blood tests to diagnose the underlying causes.

Skin health is a delicate balance that is influenced by a variety of internal and external factors. It is important to recognize and address these factors in order to dry skin effectively treat dry skin and promote its well-being.

Symptoms Dry skin

Dry skin is a common skin problem whose symptoms can range from mild to severe. Typical signs of dry skin are

• Rough skin feeling
• Reduced suppleness
• Feeling of tightness
• Itching
• redness
• Desquamation

These symptoms often indicate a disturbed skin barrier that is no longer able to retain sufficient moisture and protect the skin from external influences. Especially with extreme dry skin it can also lead to:

• Formation of eczema
• Appearance of fine lines
• Development of dryness wrinkles

can occur. A reduced ability to retain moisture and a weakening of the skin's protective barrier are characteristic of this condition. With chronic extreme dry skinthat does not respond to simple moisturizing care may be atopic dermatitis, for example neurodermatitis. This can lead to other symptoms and requires special medical treatment to soothe the affected areas of skin and prevent worsening.

Diagnosis of dry skin

Identification and treatment of dry skin begins with a careful diagnosis that covers various aspects. Typical for dry skin is characterized by mild to moderate flaking, with scaly flaking occurring particularly on the lower legs. Symptoms such as itching and a feeling of tightness are further indications of dry skin. dry skin dry skin. A medical examination is essential in order to make an accurate diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions.

Repeated rubbing and scratching of dry skin areas can lead to additional problems such as infections and scarring. Increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which leads to a lack of moisture in the skin, is a characteristic feature dry skin.

Physical examinations

Various methods can be used for physical examinations. Dermatologists may be able to take a skin biopsy to diagnose skin conditions such as psoriasis or ichthyosis. Ultrasound procedures are also used to obtain detailed information about the condition of the skin and possible causes of dryness. If there are signs that suggest a link to internal diseases, internists or endocrinologists are called in to carry out special examinations and treatments. Blood and urine tests are used to identify imbalances in the salt-water balance or deficiencies, which can also contribute to dry skin.

Laboratory tests

The laboratory tests usually include special blood tests and urine analyses to detect deviations in the salt-water balance, deficiency symptoms and hormonal disorders that can affect the skin condition. Obtaining a tissue sample by biopsy is used as a diagnostic measure when more serious skin conditions are suspected. Other special tests and examinations, including the aforementioned ultrasound procedures, support the diagnosis of internal diseases that affect the skin. skin dryness can cause skin dryness. As a rule, a dermatologist is consulted if a serious skin disease is suspected in order to initiate the necessary diagnostic steps.

The table below lists the most important examination procedures and their objectives:

Blood and urine tests are essential to gain deeper insights into metabolic processes and to identify the exact causes of dry skin dry skin.

Care approaches for dry skin

Dry skin can manifest itself in symptoms such as tightness, small cracks and itching and is often found on the face, elbows, knees and hands. Appropriate skin care is therefore of great importance. A moisturizing skin care product containing ingredients such as urea or glycerine effectively moisturizes and protects the skin at the same time. It is advisable to use both a day care product for protection and nourishment during the day and a rich night cream for regeneration during the night.

Showering should be limited to two to three times a week so as not to dry out the skin further. After showering, it is advisable to gently pat the skin instead of rubbing it dry. Active ingredients such as bisabolol can help to alleviate redness and feelings of tightness and soothe the skin. The use of mild, soap-free cleansing products can also help to protect the skin and reduce feelings of tightness and itching.

Application of moisturizers

Moisturizers play a central role in the care of dry skin. They should always be applied directly after bathing or showering on skin that is still slightly damp in order to maximize hydration. Especially for dry and flaky skin, regular application of creams with ceramide-3 helps to repair the skin's natural lipid barrier and thus reduce moisture loss. Products with urea or glycerine are also effective in compensating for dryness caused by chlorine after swimming.

Importance of an optimal indoor climate

An optimal indoor climate with sufficient humidity is essential for people with dry skin is crucial. Low humidity, which often occurs in heated or air-conditioned rooms, can further dry out the skin. This is particularly relevant in the winter and summer months, as the skin is additionally stressed by cold outside temperatures or air conditioning. Too much contact with water, for example through long baths or frequent hand washing, can also stress the skin's protective layer and thus promote dehydration.

It is also important to keep an eye on the body's fluid balance. Sufficient hydration supports all bodily functions, including the maintenance of healthy skin. If you drink too little, you risk dehydrating your body, which can lead to, among other things, sagging and dry skin and dry skin.

Treatment approaches for extremely dry skin

One of the biggest challenges in the treatment of extremely dry skin is to strengthen the skin's natural lipid film and thus counteract the loss of moisture. It is important to integrate rich, replenishing moisturizers into the daily skin routine. Such products often contain ingredients such as shea butter and urea, which are specially formulated for the needs of very sensitive skin. dry skin skin. One example of this is LIPIKAR Lait with 10 % urea, which not only hydrates but also restores protective lipids to the skin.

The skin should be cleansed just as carefully. Mild cleansing products that do not degrease and respect the skin's natural barrier are beneficial. Ordinary soaps or aggressive cleansing gels could exacerbate the problems. Careful personal hygiene is also necessary, as both inadequate and excessive care can lead to worsening symptoms.

In some cases, where large or hard-to-reach areas of skin need to be treated, Eucerin Aquaphor Protect & Repair Spray can be a helpful alternative. This is easy to use and effectively supports the regeneration of extremely dry and irritated areas of skin.

Products for dry skin

The daily skincare routine dry skin should include specially selected products. Aquaphor Protect & Repair Spray is particularly suitable for very dry, irritated or cracked skin. It is also suitable for the post-treatment of dermatological procedures.

Another tried and tested option is the DERMASENCE Adtop care creamwhich, with its breathable protective shield, protects dry to very dry skin effectively protects dry to very dry skin. Fragrance-free products that imitate the skin's sebum and strengthen the skin barrier are recommended for daily care.

In addition, mild, soap-free, skin-neutral shower and washing gels are the first choice for people with dry skinto avoid drying out the skin. Body creamsespecially those containing urea, are a popular option to relieve tightness and itching, especially for mature or severely dehydrated skin.

Special forms such as ichthyosis

Ichthyosis is one of the special forms of severe skin drynesswhich manifests itself in the form of excessive scaling and thus creates very dry, rough areas of skin. Hereditary ichthyoses are caused by genetic mutations and often manifest themselves in infancy or are detected at birth. The most common form is ichthyosis vulgaris, which usually shows symptoms in the first year of life and often becomes increasingly severe by puberty.

The symptoms usually manifest as dry, powdery scales that form particularly on the extensor sides of the arms and legs and can appear in various colors and sizes. Acquired ichthyosis can occur, for example, as a result of taking medications or skin stress caused by location or occupation.

The treatment of ichthyosis requires individual coordination, often with the involvement of specialized dermatologists, to ensure adequate therapy. Products with intensive moisturizing and anti-dandruff properties are often used to effectively care for the affected skin areas.

Frequently asked questions about dry skin

Dry skin is a common phenomenon that affects many people. It can be caused by reduced oil production by the sebaceous glands, which is often genetic or occurs with age. It is essential, dry skinwhich has permanently less lipids, from dehydrated skin, as the latter represents a temporary lack of water.

Symptoms such as redness, tightness and itching are typical signs of dry skin. Active ingredients such as bisabolol can have a soothing effect on the affected areas of skin and provide relief. However, contact with water can be counterproductive as it can affect the skin's natural pH value and remove necessary lipids.

If the dryness of the skin is persistent and uncomfortable or if changes occur, medical treatment should be considered. Special blood tests can help to identify possible internal diseases that could be behind the skin problem.

The following table provides an overview of available solutions:

Adequate care involves selecting products that moisturize and strengthen the skin's lipid barrier.

Important ingredients in care products

Dry skin can have a variety of causes and requires special care. The most important ingredients in skin care products that help to strengthen and hydrate the skin include

• Derma Defense FormulaThis special formulation strengthens the skin's protective barrier and supports the skin microflora, which is essential for the skin's natural protection.
• UreaAs an effective active ingredient, urea helps to moisturize the skin and is therefore ideal for skin care. dry skin areas suitable.
• Prebiotic formulasThe prebiotic elements in skin care products promote a healthy skin microbiome, which increases resilience to environmental influences.
• CeramidesThese ingredients are crucial for retaining moisture in the skin and play an important role in repairing the skin barrier.
• Natural oils: They moisturize the dry skin intensively with nutrients, promote suppleness and can reduce feelings of tension and cracking.

The use of skin care products containing these components can contribute to a significant improvement in the appearance of the skin. However, in the case of persistent and recurring dry patches of skin, medical treatment should be considered to rule out possible underlying conditions.

Summary and outlook

Dry skin is characterized by a lack of oil and moisture, which makes it more susceptible to external influences. Proper care is therefore essential to avoid further problems. As we age, sebum production decreases, which requires a more specific skincare routine to maintain the balance between moisture and lipids in the skin.

To the care dry skin it is best to use a mild cleanser and products that moisturize and replenish the skin's natural oils. Especially in the cold season rich creams and lotions can help to provide the skin with refreshing moisture and protect it from further dehydration.

A healthy, balanced diet, rich in vitamin Ealso has a positive effect on skin health and can prevent dryness. In cases of extreme dry skin or if an internal disease is suspected, medical treatment may be appropriate to clarify the underlying causes and determine the correct treatment.

To dry skin in the long term and ensure its well-being, it is important to regularly review your skincare routine and adjust it if necessary to meet both current and future skin needs.

Source: istockphoto insta_photos