Winter skin is a struggle for almost everyone—and in the Midwest, the combination of cold temperatures, low humidity, and indoor heating can create the perfect storm for dryness, itching, and flare-ups of underlying skin conditions. Our dermatology providers see more winter-related skin concerns than any other season.
This guide breaks down the most common issues, what causes them, and how to care for your skin so it stays healthy, hydrated, and comfortable all winter long.
1. Why Winter Wreaks Havoc on Skin
When the air outside becomes cold and dry, moisture evaporates from the skin much faster. Add in hot showers, indoor heating, and harsh cleansers, and your skin barrier weakens, leading to irritation, flaking, redness, and itching.
Patients often feel like their products “stop working” in the winter, but the truth is:
Your skin needs different support during colder months.
2. Common Winter Skin Conditions & What Helps
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Winter is prime flare-up season for eczema. Symptoms may include redness, cracking, itching, or patches that won’t heal.
Provider tips:
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Use thick creams or ointments instead of lotions
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Moisturize immediately after showering
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Avoid fragrance in body products
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Use a humidifier at home, either room devices or attached with furnace system (aim for 30-50% humidity)
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Prescription topical and oral treatments can dramatically relieve signs & symptoms
Psoriasis
Cold, dry air can trigger new plaques or worsen existing ones.
Provider tips:
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Keep skin hydrated with occlusive moisturizers
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Use topical medications as prescribed
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Light therapy may be especially helpful during winter months
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Avoid long, hot showers that strip the skin
Seborrheic Dermatitis (Flaky, itchy areas on the scalp, brows, nose, ears)
Often mistaken for “dry skin,” this condition worsens with temperature changes and stress.
Provider tips:
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Medicated shampoos (even for brows/beard area)
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Anti-inflammatory topicals
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Gentle exfoliation when appropriate
Dry Skin (Xerosis)
Sometimes it’s simply dryness—but severe dryness can lead to painful cracks, itching, or secondary infections.
Provider tips:
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Switch to a hydrating cleanser
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Look for moisturizers with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, petrolatum, shea butter, coconut oil, or oatmeal
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Use a humidifier
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Reduce hot water exposure
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Moisturize twice daily
Keratosis Pilaris (the “bumps” on arms + thighs)
Worsens in winter as the skin becomes rougher and drier.
Provider tips:
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Gentle exfoliation
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Creams with lactic acid or urea
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Daily moisturizer
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Avoid picking or scrubbing
3. Your Winter Skincare Routine (Provider-Approved)
Morning Routine
✔️ Gentle, hydrating cleanser
✔️ Vitamin C or antioxidant serum / oil-based serums
✔️ Moisturizer (cream—not lotion)
✔️ SPF 30+ daily
Yes, UV rays penetrate through clouds and windows.
Evening Routine
✔️ Hydrating cleanser
✔️ Prescription topicals as directed
✔️ Nourishing moisturizer or ointment
✔️ Optional: overnight hydrating mask on dry areas
4. When to See a Dermatology Provider
Schedule a visit if you experience:
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Itching that disrupts sleep
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Cracks or bleeding
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Painful, inflamed patches
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Persistent flaking on the scalp or face
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Rashes that don’t respond to over-the-counter care
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New or changing spots or moles (winter is perfect for skin checks)
Our providers can diagnose the issue and create a personalized plan to give you real relief—winter doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable.
5. Final Thoughts
Winter skin issues are incredibly common, and most are very treatable with the right care. If your skin is irritated, itchy, or flaring this season, you don’t have to struggle through it. Our dermatology team is here to help. (815) 229-9333 ext. 1