February 6, 2007- In these winter months, the skin is assaulted by wind, cold and lack of humidity. Leave on its own, it dries up, which can cause itching and cracking. Here are some tips, for young and old, to avoid discomfort and potential damage to this precious organ of the skin.
Under the extreme climatic conditions of the cold season, accelerated dehydration threatens the skin, which is thirsty. The application of a cream can remedy this loss of water, but above all, slow down its evaporation. The DD Éva Coulibaly, dermatologist at the Center hospitalier des Vallées de l’Outaouais, recommends the use of an ointment that contains a higher proportion of fatty substances than water. This type of cream is thicker and holds better during prolonged outdoor activities. Its protective effect is superior to that of a water-based moisturizer.
Well-groomed skin, healthier skin
The harshness of winter can exacerbate certain skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Lack of sun exposure and excessively dry air can contribute to the onset of psoriasis episodes in winter. Phototherapy treatments may be recommended in some cases, suggests Dr.D Eva Coulibaly. On the other hand, leaving the skin to dry severely, without ever giving it treatment, could cause eczema, she adds.
Toddlers too
For toddlers who are going to snort in the snow, a few precautions are in order to prevent excessive drying out. In addition to the protective cream and sunscreen, special attention should be paid to the muffler. Indeed, the DD Éva Coulibaly says she sees children suffering from frostbite on their faces when the sling, through which they breathe, gets wet. Ice crystals form and can damage their skin. In babies, it is especially the extremities (fingers and toes) that should be kept warm. You can pour a few drops of oil in their bath for a general moisturizing effect.
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Other useful tips Drink enough water: at least eight glasses of water (2 liters) every day. Take short baths or showers: no more than ten minutes, in lukewarm rather than very hot water. Do not rub the skin too vigorously to dry it: rather, it should be dabbed delicately. Exfoliation: we put the pedal soft. While it may be useful to remove dead skin cells, it should not be risked to irritate and dry out. Once a week should be enough. Cosmetic and hygiene care: preferably choose products that do not contain alcohol. Avoid deodorant or antibacterial soaps, as they can have an irritant action. Humidity : do not overheat the indoor air. A humidity level between 30% and 40% seems to be recommended. The use of a humidifier may be necessary in some cases. Sunscreen : do not forget the sunscreen, whether on the ski slopes or during outdoor activities. Lips: apply a protective balm to prevent chapping. Hands: wear gloves and mittens so as not to expose them unnecessarily to the cold. Wear gloves for washing dishes and household maintenance. |
Marie france Coutu – PasseportSanté.net
For more information, see our Dry Skin sheet.
