How North Indian Winters Dry Out Skin – And What to Do Now (Not Later)

How North Indian Winters Dry Out Skin – And What to Do Now (Not Later)

North Indian (Shahjahanpur) winters might feel refreshing after the long summer heat — but your skin may not be enjoying it as much as you are.

The cold wind, low humidity, and long sweater days often lead to dry, tight, and itchy skin that just won’t settle down.

At Dr. Rizwan’s Skin, Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, we see a sharp rise in complaints of:

• White flakes on arms and legs

• Cracked heels and chapped lips

• Itchy skin that feels worse after bathing

• Dull and dehydrated facial skin

• Redness and flare-ups of eczema or psoriasis

If you’re thinking “I’ll fix it later” — don’t.

By the time the skin gets visibly dry, the barrier is already damaged.

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🧊 So Why Does Winter Dry Your Skin So Fast?

Let’s keep it simple:

1. Cold Air = Low Humidity

Winter air holds less moisture. This pulls water out of your skin, especially if you spend a lot of time outside.

2. Hot Showers = Skin Barrier Damage

Long, hot water baths might feel relaxing, but they actually strip away your natural skin oils.

3. Less Sweating = Less Natural Hydration

Sweating keeps your skin naturally moisturized. In winter, when you sweat less, the skin stays dry for longer.

4. More Layers = More Friction

Thick woollens can cause rubbing or irritation, especially on arms, thighs, or neck.

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👎 Common Mistakes That Make It Worse

• Not moisturizing right after a bath

• Using soaps or face washes with strong chemicals

• Ignoring lip care or cracked heels

• Skipping sunscreen (yes, even in winter!)

• Scratching itchy skin instead of treating it

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✅ What You Can Do – Starting Today

1. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser

Use a face and body wash that’s fragrance-free, soap-free, and pH-balanced.

Avoid anything that leaves your skin “squeaky clean.”

2. Moisturize Within 3 Minutes of Bathing

This is the golden rule. Apply your moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp — this locks in hydration.

Look for urea, ceramides, glycerin, or shea butter in the ingredient list.

3. Protect Lips & Heels

Keep a lip balm in your pocket and reapply as needed.

Use heel creams at night with socks to soften cracks.

4. Use Sunscreen Daily

Yes, winter sun can still cause tanning and pigmentation.

Choose a moisturizing sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

5. Hydrate From Inside

Don’t reduce your water intake just because you’re not thirsty. Aim for 2 litres of water daily, and include fruits like oranges, amla, and cucumbers.

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🧴 What We Offer at the Clinic

At our clinic, we help manage winter skin with:

• Barrier Repair Creams made for dry and sensitive skin

• Moisturizing facials to restore glow without stripping oils

• Peels for winter pigmentation (safe and gentle)

• Medical treatments for eczema, psoriasis, or severe dryness

• Customized skincare plans to suit your age, skin type, and weather

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🌟 Final Thoughts

Winter skin needs preventive care, not panic-mode treatment.

If your skin is already flaky or red, it’s time to act now — not after Lohri or Makar Sankranti.

We can help you pick the right products, fix your skin barrier, and keep your skin smooth, soft, and healthy all winter long.

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📍 Visit us at Dr. Rizwan’s Skin, Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur

📞 Book your winter skin consultation today

Let’s stop dryness before it starts.

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