Preventing Dryness, Cracking & Eczema Flare-Ups
When winter arrives, many people notice changes in their skin almost immediately – tightness after showering, flaking around the nose or hands, cracked cuticles, or itchy patches that seem to come out of nowhere. For some, winter also triggers painful eczema flare-ups. Understanding why winter skin struggles and what you can do about it can make a big difference in comfort and skin health all season long.¹
Why Does Skin Become Dry in Winter?
Winter creates a “perfect storm” for dry, irritated skin:
- Cold air holds less moisture.
Outdoor winter air has lower humidity, which pulls moisture from the skin and accelerates water loss through the outer skin layer (the epidermis).² - Indoor heating dries the air even more.
Furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters reduce indoor humidity, further dehydrating the skin.³ - Hot showers feel good – but damage the skin barrier.
Long, hot showers strip the skin of natural oils that help lock in moisture, weakening the skin’s protective barrier.⁴ - Less sunlight affects skin renewal.
Reduced sunlight exposure in winter can slow vitamin D production and skin cell turnover, contributing to dryness and irritation.⁵
Together, these factors increase transepidermal water loss, making skin more prone to cracking, itching, and inflammation.²
Does Age Matter When It Comes to Winter Skin?
Yes – age plays an important role in how skin responds to winter conditions.
- As we age, the skin produces less natural oil (sebum), which helps keep skin moisturized.⁶
- The skin barrier becomes thinner and less resilient over time, increasing sensitivity and dryness.⁶
- Healing slows with age, so dry patches and cracks may take longer to resolve.
That said, people of all ages can experience winter skin issues – especially those who wash their hands frequently, work outdoors, or have sensitive or allergy-prone skin.¹
Understanding Eczema & Winter Flare-Ups
Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, inflamed skin. Winter is a common trigger for eczema flare-ups because:⁷
- Dry air worsens moisture loss
- Cold temperatures irritate sensitive skin
- Heavy clothing can cause friction and sweating
- Stress and seasonal illness can increase inflammation
Common winter flare-up areas include the hands, arms, legs, neck, and face.⁷
How to Prevent Dry Skin & Eczema Flare-Ups
The key to winter skin care is protecting the skin barrier and sealing in moisture.¹
- Moisturize Strategically
- Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of bathing to trap moisture in the skin.⁴
- Use thicker creams or ointments rather than lotions.
- Look for ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, shea butter, petrolatum, and hyaluronic acid.⁸
- For eczema-prone skin, fragrance-free and dye-free products are recommended.⁷
- Adjust Your Bathing Habits
• Keep showers short (5–10 minutes) and warm – not hot.⁴
• Use mild, soap-free or low-pH cleansers.
• Limit bathing to once daily if possible, especially during flare-ups.⁷ - Protect Exposed Skin
• Wear gloves, scarves, and hats when outdoors.
• Apply hand cream after washing and before bed.
• Use lip balm regularly to prevent cracking and chapping.³ - Add Moisture to the Air
• Use a humidifier in bedrooms or frequently used rooms.
• Aim for indoor humidity levels between 30–50%, which helps reduce skin dryness without promoting mold growth.³ - Choose Skin-Friendly Clothing
• Wear breathable fabrics like cotton against the skin.
• Avoid rough materials such as wool directly on sensitive areas.
• Wash clothing with fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergents.⁷
Healthy Habits That Support Skin from the Inside Out
Healthy skin isn’t just about what you apply – it’s also influenced by lifestyle habits.
Stay hydrated.
Cold weather can reduce thirst, but hydration remains essential for skin function.⁹
Eat skin-supportive foods.
• Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, walnuts, flaxseed) help reduce inflammation.¹⁰
• Vitamin E (nuts, seeds, spinach) supports skin barrier function.⁸
• Vitamin C (citrus, berries, bell peppers) helps with collagen production and skin repair.¹¹
Manage stress.
Stress can worsen eczema and delay skin healing by increasing inflammatory responses.⁷
Get enough sleep.
Skin repairs and regenerates during sleep – aim for 7–9 hours per night.¹²
When to Seek Extra Help
If dryness becomes painful, cracks bleed, or eczema flare-ups are severe or persistent, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist. Prescription treatments, medicated creams, or individualized care plans may be needed when over-the-counter options aren’t enough.⁷
©2026ProgressiveHealth
References
1. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Dry Skin: Causes and Treatment.
2. Proksch E, Brandner JM, Jensen JM. The Skin: An Indispensable Barrier. Experimental Dermatology.
3. National Eczema Association. Winter Skin Care Tips.
4. Mayo Clinic. Dry Skin (Xerosis).
5. Holick MF. Vitamin D Deficiency. New England Journal of Medicine.
6. National Institute on Aging. Skin Care and Aging.
7. National Eczema Association. Eczema Triggers and Management.
8. American Academy of Dermatology. Moisturizers: How They Work.
9. Harvard Health Publishing. Water: How Much Do You Need?
10. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Fats and Skin Health.
11. Linus Pauling Institute. Vitamin C and Skin Health.
12. Sleep Foundation. How Sleep Affects Your Skin.