Expert-backed ways to manage extremely dry skin this winter

The weather is changing (though several areas in northern India are grappling with smog), it’s time to bring out our boots, cosy cardigans, stylish trench coats, and all those chic scarves and hats.
Winter is knocking at our door, and with it comes the familiar routine of slathering on thick moisturisers to keep our skin from cracking.
While those with oily skin had their share of struggles during the monsoon, it’s now the turn of those with dry skin. And we know that simply switching to a heavier moisturiser isn’t always the solution.
You need more than just a quick fix — you need a comprehensive guide to keep your skin nourished and hydrated throughout the season.
During the winter months, air holds less moisture, and as a result, the skin gets extremely dry, chapped, and itchy.
“For individuals with dry skin, the loss of moisture leads to flakiness, tightness, dullness, and an increase in skin sensitivity. They might experience changes in skin texture, a damaged skin barrier, and even bleeding at some point,” Dr Shaurya Thakran, dermatologist and co-founder, Rakshaa Aesthetics, Delhi, tells India Today.
To this, Dr Nirupama Parwanda, dermatologist at Zolie Skin Clinic, Delhi, adds that this weather can create several challenges for the skin, such as intense dryness that leads to itchiness and discomfort, cracked or chapped skin (especially on exposed areas like hands, lips, and heels), redness and irritation, which can worsen over time, and skin condition flare-ups, such as eczema or psoriasis.
But what leads to dry skin?
It is vital to understand that dry skin occurs when the skin’s natural moisture-retaining mechanisms are compromised. According to Dr Vidushi Jain, dermatologist and medical head at Dermalinks, NCR, dry skin is provoked by the following causes:
Dr Thakran mentions that weather changes, especially a shift from warm to cold, can trigger or worsen dry skin.
People with naturally dry skin are more likely to notice this change because their skin struggles to retain moisture in extreme conditions, which can further aggravate the issues.
However, weather changes can affect anyone’s skin, even those with oily or normal skin types. For instance, skin can become drier or more irritated during the winter months, regardless of skin type. The key difference is that individuals with dry skin will typically see more noticeable effects.

Weather can worsen dry skin issues (Photo: Getty Images)

This change in weather often leads to chapped skin, and we all know how painful that can be. Dr Jain tells us that these cracks allow irritants to penetrate, which can cause inflammation or infection.
But you can control the situation just by applying a protective balm or petroleum jelly on affected areas and avoiding exfoliants.
The experts suggest tweaking your skincare routine to combat and prevent itchy skin when the weather changes.
“Switching to moisturisers during winter will keep the skin hydrated. Lightweight lotions from summer may not be effective enough. Instead, opt for cream-based moisturisers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerine, ceramides, or shea butter; fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products to avoid irritation; and occlusive products (like petroleum jelly or oils) for areas prone to extreme dryness,” says Dr Parwanda.
And like we said before, just moisturiser isn’t enough.
Trust home remedies
Certain DIY hacks can help soothe and hydrate dry skin. But if not done carefully, these home remedies can do more harm than good.
To manage your dry skin, you can try aloe vera, which is known for its calming and hydrating properties. Aloe vera gel can help soothe dry and irritated skin.

Home remedies can help with dry skin (Photo: Getty Images)

Apart from this, honey, which is a natural humectant, draws moisture into the skin. You can apply raw honey as a mask this winter. Coconut oil also serves as an excellent emollient. You can also try oatmeal baths, as they may help assuage itchiness and dryness.