Stating that cold weather causes the skin to lose moisture, Prof. Ömer Faruk Elmas said:
"The reason is that the humidity level in the air decreases, and cold winds weaken the skin’s natural protective layer. The most affected areas are the exposed parts such as the face, lips, and hands. In these regions, dryness, redness, cracking, and sensitivity are frequently observed."
Prof. Ömer Faruk Elmas emphasized the changes that should be made in skincare routines during cold weather, noting: "Moisturizer use should be increased, and it should especially be applied after bathing. Sunscreen must be used both in summer and winter because the winter sun is also harmful."
Prof. Ömer Faruk Elmas, from Üsküdar University 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.
Skin loses moisture in cold weather!
Highlighting that cold weather leads to skin moisture loss, Prof. Elmas said: "The reason is the drop in air humidity and the weakening of the skin’s natural protective layer due to cold winds. The most affected areas are the exposed face, lips, and hands. Dryness, redness, cracking, and sensitivity are frequently seen in these regions."
The oily layer on the skin surface decreases in the cold
Evaluating the causes of dryness and cracking often seen on the hands, face, and lips in the cold, Prof. Elmas noted: "In the cold, the oily layer on the skin surface decreases, which makes it easier for water to evaporate from the skin. In addition, wind and low temperatures slow down blood circulation in the skin. As a result, dryness, tightness, cracking, and sometimes even bleeding can occur."
Cream should be used in all seasons!
Touching on changes to be made in skincare routines in cold weather, Prof. Elmas said: "Cleansing products should be chosen to be gentle and soap-free. Moisturizer use should be increased, especially after bathing. Sunscreen must be used all year round, as the winter sun is also harmful. Special care should be given to the hands and lips."
Moisturizer should match skin type
Prof. Elmas also pointed out the key factors in choosing moisturizers: "Moisturizers should be selected according to skin type. For dry skin, heavy and oil-based creams are beneficial. For sensitive skin, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products should be preferred. While natural ingredients (shea butter, almond oil) are helpful, dermocosmetic products are generally more effective thanks to their scientifically developed formulas."
Licking lips increases dryness
Addressing methods to prevent lip cracking in cold weather, Prof. Elmas said: "Coconut oil, shea butter, or olive oil can be applied to the lips. Lips should not be licked, as this increases dryness. Drinking plenty of water is also important for lip health."
Prof. Elmas also emphasized the importance of water temperature in skin cleansing: "Very hot water destroys the skin’s protective oil layer more quickly. This increases dryness and irritates the skin. Washing with lukewarm water is the most suitable option for skin health."
Natural skincare tips at home
Prof. Elmas also shared natural care tips that can be applied at home: "Mash half a ripe avocado and mix it with one teaspoon of olive oil, then apply it to the face. Leave it 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 once or twice a week."