In winter, cold outdoor air, wind and the low humidity of heated indoor spaces put the skin barrier under strain. Water loss from the skin increases and dryness and itch become more marked; this triggers flares in conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, where the barrier is already weak. The aim in this period is to support the barrier and minimise moisture loss so the skin becomes more resilient to external factors.
Moisturising is the heart of winter care. Richer-textured products containing barrier-repairing ingredients such as ceramides and glycerin should be preferred. Moisturiser should be applied while the skin is still slightly damp after bathing, and reapplied through the day as needed. Because very hot, long showers dry the skin further, lukewarm, short washing with fragrance-free cleansers is more suitable.
Environmental conditions also make a difference. Keeping indoor humidity up, not sitting for long directly in front of hot air sources and drinking plenty of water all support the skin. Avoiding direct contact of woollen fabrics with the skin, wearing soft cotton layers and, for those who must wash their hands often, moisturising after every wash all reduce irritation.
In winter flares Clinovia favours cortisone-free options: calcineurin and PDE-4 inhibitors on sensitive sites, and ceramide barrier repair as the foundation. In these darker months we also assess systemic factors such as falling vitamin D; NB-UVB phototherapy is used when needed. A well-established winter routine helps to reduce the need for medicines and to maintain control.