Living in a climate with 4 seasons means constant adjustments in caring for our children’s skin. During the winter, dry skin is often caused by the constant difference in temperature from outside to in, and a lack of moisture in the air. Dry skin can look different on every child, and can also cause different sensations. Some skin may appear dry and flaky, while other children will only experience tightness in certain areas. Below are 3 ways to care for, and prevent, dry skin during the winter months.
Hydrate:
During these dry winter months, keeping children hydrated can help to fight dry skin. Typically, more of a focus is put on hydration during the warmer months, but hydration is important all year round. A fundamental component in keeping children’s skin healthy is ensuring they are drinking enough fluids.
Focus on the SPF:
Sun protection isn’t only for summer months. Protecting your children from UV rays is necessary all year round. The snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays, which can be harmful to your children’s face and skin. Whether you are having a snowball fight, building a snowman, or just walking around in the snow, make sure you and your family are using sunscreen.
Lock in Moisture:
The ideal time to apply moisturizer is after bath or shower time, while your children are still damp. When skin is damp, lotion is absorbed better by the surface of the skin. Massaging moisturizer into their skin will also allow for better absorption.
Eczema is an immune reaction that results in bumpy and dry skin patches found on the face and body. Eczema tends to be more common in children during the dry months of winter. Flare-ups, which can cause extreme itchiness, are more frequent during this time as a result of the skin’s exposure to two drastically different climates: hot and cold. Eczema is not simply dry skin, it is typically hereditary, and is caused by a gene variation that prevents the skin from fighting off common dry skin causing external elements (i.e.: allergies, irritants, etc.). Food allergies can also be connected with Eczema.
For serious cases of Eczema, when the skin begins to crack and bleed, it is important to contact your Pediatric Care Group pediatrician for proper treatment.
