Skin Dryness and Flaking in Cold Weather
31 July 2026
Seasonal Changes and Skin Health
Changes in seasons lead to significant differences in skin health, just as they do in immunity. In summer, sunlight and high humidity in the air can help the skin stay more balanced. However, when autumn and winter arrive, cold winds, low humidity, and sudden temperature changes cause tightness, dryness, and flaking in the skin. These complaints become particularly pronounced in individuals with chronic conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis.
Dry skin is not merely an aesthetic issue. Cracked or flaky areas become entry points for microorganisms, increasing the risk of infection. Therefore, paying attention to skin care in winter is essential not only for aesthetic reasons but also for general health. You can find more information about dry skin and skin care during seasonal transitions here.
What Causes Dry Skin?
While dryness often arises from environmental conditions, this is not the sole cause. Cold weather, low humidity, wind, prolonged hot showers, or using unsuitable products can cause the skin to lose its moisture. Especially soaps with a pH value not suitable for the skin can disrupt the skin's protective barrier, accelerating this process.
Additionally, genetic predisposition or chronic conditions like eczema can exacerbate dryness. The primary reason for eczema problems worsening in winter is that low humidity and cold weather weaken the skin's protective barrier. Itching, redness, and flaking are frequently observed during this period.
Dryness and Flaking of the Skin
Dryness and flaking are usually more noticeable on the face, hands, legs, and lips. This is because the protective layer of skin in these areas is thinner. When the skin's protective barrier is damaged, moisture loss accelerates, the skin becomes more sensitive, and it remains unprotected against external factors. As a result, the feeling of tightness in the skin increases, cracks may form, and fine flaking can be observed.
During such periods, the most crucial step is to re-establish the moisture balance and strengthen the barrier. Regularly used moisturizing creams are highly effective in preventing dryness. Blue Cap cream, with its intense moisturizing properties, can help soothe the skin and reduce flaking complaints.
My Face is Peeling, What Should I Do?
One of the most common questions heard during winter months is about facial peeling. Since facial skin is thinner and more sensitive, the effects of dryness are seen more rapidly here. It is necessary to avoid harsh soaps and excessively hot water for facial cleansing. Washing with gentle cleansers and drying the face without excessive rubbing is beneficial.
Applying moisturizer within a few minutes after cleansing is of great importance because the product is more effective when the skin is moist. Products containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramide, or panthenol are beneficial during this period. Furthermore, continuing to use sunscreen in winter months helps prevent peeling and spot formation. If peeling persists for a long time and is accompanied by itching or redness, a dermatologist should be consulted.
Skin peeling
What Helps Peeling Skin?
Regular moisturizing is essential for peeling skin to recover. Moisturizers applied twice a day help the skin retain moisture better and support barrier repair. Especially for very dry and sensitive skin, water-based creams alone may not be sufficient; in such cases, oil-based, intensive formulas yield more effective results.
Herbal oils can also be used as a supportive measure. Argan oil, almond oil, shea oil, and jojoba oil help soften the skin. However, they may not be sufficient on their own; their effects become more pronounced when used in conjunction with moisturizing products. For individuals prone to eczema, Blue Cap cream and spray can provide relief due to their moisturizing and soothing properties. You can find detailed information about eczema here.
My Face is Very Dry and Flaky: What Can I Do?
Flaky skin is a common complaint in winter months. In this situation, the first step is to change shower habits. Taking long hot showers destroys the skin's protective oil layer and increases dryness. Instead, taking short showers with lukewarm water is more appropriate.
Applying moisturizer immediately after showering helps to trap moisture in the skin. Sufficient daily water intake also helps alleviate dryness. Furthermore, nutrition plays an important role in skin health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (fish, walnuts, flaxseed), fruits and vegetables containing vitamin C (oranges, kiwis, peppers), and sources of vitamin E (avocados, almonds) support skin health from within.
Skin dryness
Lips and Hands Need More Attention
In winter, chapped lips and dry hands are very common. Regular use of lip balm is necessary to protect the lips. Hands, on the other hand, dry out more easily due to frequent washing and exposure to external factors. Therefore, it is beneficial to apply moisturizing cream after every wash. Using cotton or nitrile gloves when working with cleaning products also helps protect the hands.
Sun Protection in Winter
Although the sun's effect may seem diminished in winter, UVA rays reach the skin year-round. These rays can cause spots, wrinkles, and premature aging of the skin. Therefore, it is necessary to continue using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 during the day, even on cloudy days.
Eva Maree 3D Melani Sun Lotion SPF 50+ protects the skin not only from the sun's harmful UVA/UVB rays but also from blue light (HEV) and infrared (IR) rays emitted by screens. With its ectoin and blue microalgae content, it neutralizes free radicals, strengthens the skin barrier, and can be safely used on sensitive skin prone to pigmentation.
-
Broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, HEV (blue light) and IR rays
-
Antioxidant support with ectoin + blue microalgae
-
100% vegan, cortisone-free, dermatologically tested
Click on the product name to examine the product in more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does skin dryness occur?
Skin dryness usually results from cold weather, low humidity, wind, prolonged hot showers, use of inappropriate products, or genetic factors. Skin conditions like eczema can also increase dryness.
Why is flaking seen on the skin?
Damage to the skin's protective layer accelerates moisture loss and causes tightness, cracks, and fine flaking on the skin. This condition is more pronounced on the face, hands, and legs.
What should be done if facial peeling continues for a long time?
If peeling, itching, or redness persists for a long time, a dermatologist should be consulted. This is because it could be a symptom of chronic problems such as eczema or psoriasis.
Additional Tips
To keep your skin healthier in winter, you can pay attention to a few more small details. Keeping shower times short, avoiding loofahs and harsh exfoliating mitts, and steering clear of stress and lack of sleep can alleviate eczema flare-ups. If you have bleeding, wounds, or persistent redness on your skin, you should definitely seek support from your dermatologist, as these could be confused with conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Cold weather and low humidity are challenging for the skin. However, with the right skincare steps, you can get through this period much more comfortably. Drinking enough water, using moisturizer regularly, avoiding irritation, and using appropriate products are the keys to healthy skin.
My advice to you is to not disrupt your daily routine and to regularly use products suitable for your skin's needs. Especially for complaints of dryness, flaking, and eczema, the Blue Cap series can contribute to you having a more comfortable winter by supporting the skin barrier.
This article was written by Pharmacist Arzum Çetin from the Primum Pharma team.