As the days get shorter and the weather becomes cooler, temperature changes can wreak havoc on your skin. Here are some of the most common skin issues to look out for during cool weather and how we can help.

  • Dryness: Even if your skin feels smooth and supple during the summer, it can still dry out as the temperature drops. Less humidity in the air, indoor heating, and wind can all make the skin feel dry. Some people will even experience a dry skin rash on particularly cold days. Hot showers and baths, can often make dry skin even worse.
  • Rosacea: An extremely common condition, rosacea isn’t just a winter issue, but it can flare up in any kind of extreme weather. It mainly affects the face, and it often looks and feels as though the person is blushing. Some people get bumps and pustules or dry eyes and eyelids along with the redness.
  • Cold urticaria: For some people, an allergy to the cold is real. The allergy is called cold urticaria, and those who have it experience itchy hives, redness and swelling when their skin is warmed after being exposed to cold temperatures below 39 degrees. The allergic reaction usually occurs within five to 10 minutes of the skin warming and can last for up to two hours.
  • Sun Damage: While you lather on SPF during the summer, you might not think to do so as the temperature drops. However, sun damage and skin cancer are still a concern in the cooler months. Sun can reach exposed areas like your face and hands whenever you spend time outdoors. These dangerous UV rays can also reflect off of snow, even on cloudy days.
  • Eczema & Psoriasis: While the cold doesn’t necessarily cause psoriasis and eczema rashes, dry air and chilly temperatures might lead to flare ups. Individuals with eczema may also have a weaker skin barrier, making their skin more susceptible to the cold and dry air.

 How can Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Center help?

Steps like using a rich moisturizer, wearing SPF of at least 30 when you go outdoors, and sticking to gentle and unscented skin care products, can help protect your skin from irritation in the colder months. If you have a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis, be sure to see Dr. Monique S. Cohn regularly. She will check any flare ups and recommend a treatment plan.

While at-home skin care can keep your dry, itchy skin in check during the fall and winter, cosmetic dermatology treatments can provide an extra boost. Treatments like facials, chemical peels, micro-needling and vibradermabrasion can remove dead skin cells and smooth out your complexion. If you’re noticing signs of sun damage, you might consider a laser treatment. Dr. Cohn can recommend treatments based on your specific needs.

If you experience a chilly-weather skin issue, it’s important to schedule an appointment on-line or call 330-425-7600 at our Twinsburg office for a consultation with Dr. Cohn. She can help you prevent and treat your skin concerns, so you can enjoy a glowing complexion all year round.