Change in season: why does dry skin feel tight in the winter?

The skin is like a shield: it’s your first line of defense against aggressions and this can very quickly have an impact on comfort. In winter, dry, fragile and sensitive skin types are the first to succumb to minor issues such as tightness or even redness. 
     

How does winter affect dry skin?

During the winter, the body has to fight against very cold temperatures. In order to retain heat, it focuses on hydrating vital organs, at the expense of the epidermis. Internally, skin hydration slows, resulting in reduced sebum production. Sebum is an essential component of the hydrolipidic film, which acts as a natural protective barrier for the skin. Ultimately, water escapes from the epidermis, and skin becomes dehydrated faster. This phenomenon affects all skin types, but it is far more noticeable on dry, naturally dehydrated skin.
Indeed, for dry skin naturally lacking in hydration, winter’s effects become visible much sooner. Discomfort sets in, some flaking may appear, and small squamous plaques (those dreaded dry patches). 

Moreover, the drop in temperature has a harmful, cumulative effect with a range of consequences: the air becomes drier, the epidermis has more trouble maintaining its natural hydration level, a vicious circle is triggered, and skin dries out even more. Dermatologists refer to this phenomenon as Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL).

Dry skin, winter... and heat!

So, winter dries out the skin; however, this is due not only to cold weather but also to temperature fluctuations. Going from outdoor temperatures hovering around zero to warmer indoor temperatures affects the skin’s protective hydrolipidic film. In response to these temperature changes, our blood vessels constantly expand and contract. They become fragile, and this is often when redness appears.

Although it may be chilly outside, cranking up the heating may not be such a good idea if you want to avoid damaging your dry skin. Look out for this warning sign: red cheeks and the sensation of your skin “overheating”.

How should you adapt your special dry skin hydration routine in the winter months?

To prevent redness, irritation, tightness and itching, your top priority in winter is to hydrate, nourish and comfort dry skin. To achieve this goal, you must adapt your skin care routine. So, forget about those light summertime creams.

• A hydrating and nourishing cream is a must for reinforcing the skin’s protective barrier. A product that offers effective protection against external aggressions should be applied every morning and evening (to thoroughly cleansed skin).
• And of course, pay close attention to your cleansing routine and opt for the gentlest possible cleanser, such as, for example, a hydrating micellar water.