Measures Against Increased Skin Problems in Autumn and Winter
31 July 2026
Seasonal transitions, especially the period starting in autumn and continuing through the winter months, are among the most challenging times for our skin. Cold weather, low humidity, indoor heaters, and incorrect skincare habits weaken our skin's barrier. This situation not only brings up aesthetic concerns but also raises the question of what we should do to maintain skin health. Because skin dryness, redness, cracking, or problems like winter eczema can both reduce quality of life and be indicators of certain health issues.
In this article, we will answer frequently asked questions such as what helps with skin peeling and what helps with skin dryness, and also share winter skincare beauty tips.
During seasonal transitions, especially in autumn and winter, it is crucial to follow the correct skincare routine.
Why does skin experience more problems in autumn and winter?
One of the biggest enemies of our skin health is the drop in humidity during cold weather. Skin that appears more elastic and vibrant in summer loses its moisture as the weather gets colder.
What causes dry skin?
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Low humidity
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Hot shower habits
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Harsh soaps and cleaning products
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Wind and cold weather
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Air conditioners and heaters used in enclosed spaces
As a result of the skin barrier being compromised, facial redness, dryness, cracking, flaking, and sensitivity occur. In some individuals, cold allergies can even lead to reactions such as redness, burning, and swelling in the facial area.
What disease might dry skin indicate?
Not every case of dry skin indicates a serious illness. However, prolonged dryness accompanied by itching and scaling may be associated with the following conditions:
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Thyroid disorders
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Diabetes
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Nutritional deficiencies (especially omega-3, vitamin A and E deficiencies)
If the dryness is not merely seasonal but becomes persistent, it is essential to consult a dermatologist.
What dries out the skin?
Before addressing the problem, it is important to identify incorrect habits. Here are things that dry out the skin:
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Long, very hot showers
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Soaps/cleaning products containing alcohol or high foam
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Insufficient water intake
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Excessive caffeine consumption
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Smoking
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Cold and windy weather conditions
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Drying the face with harsh movements
Avoiding these habits is the first step in protecting the skin barrier.
Seasonal conditions can negatively affect the skin.
The most common skin problems in winter
Winter Eczema
Eczema, triggered by cold weather, causes intense dryness and itching, especially on the hands, face, and elbows.
Peeling and Flaking
When the skin loses its moisture, flaking and peeling occur in the upper layer. This condition typically results from dryness, cold weather, and improper product use. Regular moisturizing and care with gentle cleansers can alleviate these complaints.
Facial Redness and Dryness
In sensitive skin types, facial redness and dryness become more pronounced.
Cold Allergy
Cold allergy manifests as redness, burning, and itching in the facial area.
What helps with skin peeling?
Peeling often results from excessive dryness and eczema. What can be done:
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Intensive moisturizers (preferably dermocosmetic products)
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Creams containing petroleum jelly or glycerin
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Using gentle cleansers
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Drinking plenty of water
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Avoiding irritating exfoliants
What helps with skin dryness?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions. Here are effective solutions:
Moisturizing cream: Choose unscented, intensely hydrating products suitable for your skin.
Post-shower care: Applying moisturizer immediately after showering helps lock in moisture when pores are open from the steam.
Choosing the right soap: pH-balanced, moisturizing soaps should be used.
Omega-3 supplements: Sources like fish oil or flaxseed support the skin from within.
What can be done at home to moisturize the face?
Along with using clinical products, natural methods that can be applied at home can also be beneficial. For example:
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Short showers with lukewarm water
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Placing a humidifier in the room
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Light massage with olive oil or coconut oil
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Drinking plenty of water
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Opting for cotton pillowcases
DIY face mask recipes for dry skin
Natural masks can be applied at home; however, the ingredients used must not cause allergies or sensitivity to the skin.
Honey and yogurt mask: Moisturizes and softens the skin.
Avocado mask: Reduces dryness with omega fatty acids.
Oatmeal mask: Soothes itching and redness.
These recipes are suitable for those looking for mask recommendations for dry skin and DIY masks for dry skin.
Winter skincare beauty tips
It is very important not to neglect skincare during the winter months. Here are some winter skincare beauty tips I can recommend:
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Don't stop using sunscreen. UV rays harm the skin even in winter. To read our sunscreen guide and learn more about sunscreens, click here.
Eva Maree 3D Melani Sun Lotion SPF 50+ protects the skin not only from harmful UVA/UVB rays but also from blue light (HEV) and infrared (IR) rays from screens. With its ectoin and blue micro-algae content, it neutralizes free radicals, strengthens the skin barrier, and can be safely used on sensitive skin prone to hyperpigmentation.
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Broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, HEV (blue light), and IR rays
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Antioxidant support with ectoin + blue micro-algae
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100% vegan, cortisone-free, dermatologically tested
Click on the product title to review the product. -
Regularly moisturize your hands, as they are among the quickest to dry out.
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Use lip balm.
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Take lukewarm, not hot, showers.
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Drink plenty of water, reduce caffeine.
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Avoid alcohol and smoking.
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Carry moisturizing creams in your bag.
Blue Cap Cream soothes the skin with its intense moisturizing and repairing effect against skin problems such as dryness, itching, redness, and flaking. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it alleviates the damage caused by free radicals to the skin and provides long-term control with its cortisone-free formula. It can be safely used around mucous membranes and in the external genital area.
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Alleviates dryness, itching, redness, and flaking
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Antioxidant & anti-inflammatory effect supports the skin barrier
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0% cortisone – can be safely used on sensitive areas
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Made in Spain
Click on the product title to review the product.
Dry skin in children and the elderly
In children: Since the skin barrier is thinner, dryness and eczema develop more easily. For children, products suitable for sensitive skin should be preferred.
In the elderly: Oil production in the skin decreases. Therefore, dry skin is more pronounced in older individuals. Regular moisturizing is vital.
What should we do to protect skin health in winter?
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Using regular and appropriate moisturizer
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Bathing with lukewarm water
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Choosing the right soap and cleanser
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Increasing humidity indoors
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Eating a balanced diet (especially rich in omega-3, vitamins A, C, E)
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Continuing to use sunscreen
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Opting for cotton and soft clothing
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does skin dryness increase during seasonal transitions?
During autumn and winter, decreased humidity, cold weather, wind, indoor heaters, and incorrect skincare habits increase skin dryness.
What health problems can dry skin indicate?
Prolonged dry skin may be associated with atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, thyroid disorders, diabetes, or nutritional deficiencies.
What should be done for scaling and flaking?
Using an intensive moisturizer, opting for gentle cleansers, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding irritating products help reduce scaling.
Prepare your skin for winter
In winter, our skin requires more attention than in summer. If we take the right precautions, we can find the answer to "what helps with dry skin" through both our daily habits and the right products.
Remember, dry skin is not just an aesthetic problem; sometimes it can be a sign of more serious illnesses. If your dryness persists and is accompanied by itching and redness, you should consult a dermatologist.
It is possible to achieve a healthy and vibrant appearance by protecting your skin in winter. By taking preventative steps, you can maintain your skin health throughout all four seasons.
This article was written by Pharmacist Arzum Çetin from the Primum Pharma team.