With the onset of winters, you can see a visible change in your skin. It is a sign that your skin is slowly adapting to the environmental changes and it is time for you to give extra TLC. Winters can get really harsh on the skin, especially those with dry skin. You may experience an array of skin diseases that could be mild to serious depending upon the exposure and how the skin reacts to it. Let us discuss some of the common winter skin diseases and tips for prevention.
Winter rash
This condition is identified with red, itchy, scaly, and irritated skin. Rashes can occur if you expose your skin to extreme cold and dry weather. Some people may also get painful bumps and blisters along with the initial symptoms that indicate worsening of the situation. You must see a dermatologist immediately to get relief. If you get winter rashes often, you can keep topical cortisone cream and moisturisers in hand to ease inflammation, itching, and redness.
Also Read: A Dermatologist's Guide To 7 Types of Skin Rashes
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes red and scaly patches, cracks, burning sensation, tenderness, and inflammation. Psoriasis mostly occurs on the scalp, elbows and knees. This is a chronic condition with no cure. It can be managed through medications and topical solutions but winters can cause psoriasis flare ups and lead to its severe symptoms. Thus, you must take care of your skin if you have psoriasis.
Rosacea
This is a skin condition which causes redness, tiny pustules, and pus-filled bumps that give a blushing or flushing effect to the skin. This happens as facial tissues thicken and blood vessels become visible. Cold temperature and dryness can contribute to worsening rosacea. In most cases, these symptoms flare up for many weeks and then subside. It might even take months to recover from this skin condition. Consult your dermatologist for skincare products to manage rosacea flare ups.
Eczema
Another common skin problem during winters is eczema. This is an inflammatory condition that causes extreme dry, red, itchy, and scaly skin. The cold air and dryness during the winter season makes it worse as the skin lacks hydration and begins to get damaged.
Also Read: Dealing With Facial Eczema? Here Is How To Treat It At Home
There is a proper skin treatment prescribed for eczema relief. Consult your doctor and follow the treatment properly to prevent flare ups.
Cold Urticaria
This is an allergic reaction that immediately occurs when your skin gets exposed to cold. You may experience several symptoms like swelling on the lips upon consuming something cold, swelling of hands upon touching a cold surface or object, hives, and itchiness. While this condition is not particular to winters as people may get cold urticaria during cold exposure in any season, winter season can make it frequent and more problematic.
Since this is an allergic reaction, doctors advise anti-allergic medicines that contain antihistamines to control allergy symptoms. If you don’t get significant relief, visit a dermatologist.
Changes in climate and environment can take a toll on your skin. You must keep a check on unusual signs and symptoms that your skin may show. Take preventive measures and seek treatment when required.
Image credits- freepik
