While it’s still warm outside for now, the cooler season will be here before you know it. This means a number of things, but for people who deal with skin conditions, it means an influx of dry air.
At the offices of Brian J. Williams, MD, PC, we’re cognizant of the way dryer air changes things for people who deal with eczema, psoriasis and other related skin conditions. These can lead to everything from rashes to significant flare-ups in these conditions, causing major discomfort and resulting side effects. It’s never too early to get started preparing for this season if you’ve dealt with these issues before, particularly in a dry climate like Utah. Let’s look at some basics here.
These two conditions, some of the most common skin conditions out there, are both at much higher risk of flare-ups during the winter. Some basics on each:
The single most important component of the skin is water, but it always has to stay even – if there’s less moisture outside the skin, water will flow across it to help equalize things. This means that when the air is particularly dry, this loss of water will dry out the skin. This also compromises the barriers that the skin forms against negative agents like bacteria and viruses.
Luckily, moisturizer prevents a lot of this. Always use moisturizers with limited fragrance in the winter, as these can exacerbate skin issues. Make sure to moisturize all potential issue areas, not just the hands or face.
For more on preparing for the dry season if you have skin issues, or to learn about our eczema treatment, acne treatment or any of our other skin care services, speak to the staff at the offices of Brian J. Williams, MD, PC today.