Stating that cold weather causes the skin to lose its moisture, Prof. Dr. Ömer Faruk Elmas said, “This is because the humidity in the air decreases and cold winds weaken the skin’s natural protective layer. The most affected areas are the exposed face, lips, and hands. Dryness, redness, cracking, and sensitivity are common in these areas.”
Prof. Dr. Ömer Faruk Elmas touched upon the changes that should be made in the skin care routine in cold weather, saying, “Moisturizer use should be increased, especially after bathing. Sunscreen should be used both summer and winter because winter sun is also harmful.”
Prof. Dr. Ömer Faruk Elmas from Üsküdar Üniversitesi Faculty of Medicine, Department of Dermatology and Venereal Diseases, issued important warnings about the negative effects of cold weather on the skin and the precautions that should be taken.
In cold weather, the skin loses its moisture!
Stating that cold weather causes the skin to lose its moisture, Prof. Dr. Ömer Faruk Elmas said, “This is because the humidity in the air decreases and cold winds weaken the skin’s natural protective layer. The most affected areas are the exposed face, lips, and hands. Dryness, redness, cracking, and sensitivity are common in these areas.”
In cold weather, the oily layer on the skin surface decreases
Prof. Dr. Ömer Faruk Elmas also evaluated the reasons for the common dryness and cracking on hands, face, and lips in cold weather, saying, “In cold weather, the oily layer on the skin surface decreases, which facilitates the evaporation of water from the skin. Additionally, wind and low temperatures slow down the skin’s blood circulation. As a result, dryness, tightness, cracking, and sometimes even bleeding can be observed on the skin.”
Cream should be used in summer and winter!
Prof. Dr. Ömer Faruk Elmas touched upon the changes that should be made in the skin care routine in cold weather, saying, “Cleansing products should be chosen from gentle and soap-free types. Moisturizer use should be increased, especially after bathing. Sunscreen should be used both summer and winter because winter sun is also harmful. Special attention should be given to hand and lip care.”
Moisturizer suitable for skin type should be chosen
Prof. Dr. Elmas also explained the points to consider when choosing a moisturizer, saying, “When choosing a moisturizer, a product suitable for your skin type should be preferred. For dry skin, rich and oil-based creams are beneficial. For sensitive skin, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products should be chosen. Although natural ingredients (shea butter, almond oil) are beneficial, dermo-cosmetic products are generally more effective thanks to their scientifically developed formulas.”
Licking lips increases dryness
Prof. Dr. Elmas touched upon methods that can be applied to prevent chapped lips in cold weather, saying, “Coconut oil, shea butter, or olive oil can be applied to the lips. Licking lips should be avoided because this increases dryness. Drinking plenty of water is also important for lip health.”
Prof. Dr. Elmas also emphasized that attention should be paid to water temperature during skin cleansing, saying, “Very hot water destroys the skin’s protective oil layer even faster. This increases dryness and irritates the skin. Washing with lukewarm water is the most suitable option for skin health.”
Prof. Dr. Elmas also shared natural care tips that can be applied at home, saying, “Mash half a ripe avocado and mix with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, then apply to the face. Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse. A mixture of olive oil and a few drops of vitamin E oil creates a protective barrier on the skin. These natural methods can be applied 1-2 times a week.”