How Winter Weather Affects Your Skin and What to Do About It

Published On: December 20, 2025

Cold, dry winter air can take a serious toll on your skin. If you’ve noticed increased dryness, redness, irritation, or flaking as the temperatures drop, you’re not alone. The combination of lower humidity, indoor heating, and brisk winds can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable.

At Dermatology Group of the Carolinas, with convenient locations in Concord, Salisbury, Lake Norman, and
Harrisburg, we specialize in helping patients navigate winter skin challenges with expert care.

Why Winter Weather Dries Out Your Skin

As the seasons change, the air becomes colder and drier, leading to a decrease in moisture levels both outdoors and indoors. Heaters may make your home feel cozy, but they also reduce humidity, creating a perfect storm for dry, itchy, and cracked skin. This is especially true for individuals with existing skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Learn how to distinguish between seasonal dryness and chronic skin issues in our related post:

👉Dry Skin vs Eczema: When Is It Time to See a Dermatologist

Common Winter Skin Concerns

  • Flaky, itchy skin on the arms, legs, and face
  • Chapped lips and cracked skin around the mouth or hands
  • Worsening of eczema or psoriasis due to the lack of moisture
  • Redness and inflammation, especially on sensitive facial areas

For patients managing conditions like rosacea, flare-ups can also be more common in colder weather.
Learn more here:

👉How to Manage Rosacea and Reduce Flare-Ups

Dermatologist-Recommended Winter Skin Care Tips

To combat the effects of winter weather on your skin, our board-certified dermatologists recommend the following winter weather skin care tips:

  1. Switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser
    Avoid foaming cleansers that strip natural oils. Opt for products designed for sensitive or dry skin.
  2. Use a thick moisturizer immediately after bathing
    Look for moisturizers with ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. Apply when the skin is still slightly damp.
  3. Limit hot showers
    While tempting in cold weather, hot water can further dry your skin. Use lukewarm water and keep showers under 10 minutes.
  4. Protect your skin outdoors
    Wear gloves and scarves to shield skin from wind. Don’t forget sunscreen—UV rays are still strong in winter.
  5. Use a humidifier
    Adding moisture back into the air can help keep your skin hydrated while indoors.

For more tailored recommendations, our team may suggest professional-grade cosmetic skin care products
based on your individual skin needs.

When to See a Dermatologist

If your skin is still dry and uncomfortable despite using moisturizers and other over-the-counter products, it may be time to talk to a professional. Persistent dryness, painful cracks, inflammation, or bleeding could be signs of something more than just a reaction to the weather.

Our board-certified dermatologists provide comprehensive evaluations and care at locations in Concord, Salisbury, Lake Norman, and Harrisburg. You can also schedule your appointment online —it only takes a minute.

Winter Skin Treatments We Offer

Looking to give your skin a little extra care this winter? We offer a variety of in-office treatments designed to restore hydration, improve texture, and refresh your overall appearance:

Protect Your Skin All Season Long

The winter season doesn’t have to mean months of uncomfortable dryness or irritation. With the right winter weather skin care routine and support from your trusted dermatologists, you can keep your skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy year-round.

At Dermatology Group of the Carolinas, we proudly serve patients across Concord, Salisbury, Lake Norman, and Harrisburg. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal dryness or need ongoing support for chronic skin conditions, we’re here to help.

Ready to feel confident in your skin again?
Schedule your winter skin consultation today.