Keeping skin hydrated in winter

Come winter and bemoaning the appearance of dry, flaky skin seems inevitable, not to mention the irritation of itchy skin. The most common complaint is that slapping on moisturising lotion several times a day doesn’t help.

Dr MK Shetty, a Bangalore-based dermatologist, speaks with DNA about ways to keep skin hydrated during winter.

Doctor, what are the common skin-related complaints during winter?
Winter brings with it a host of skin concerns which require medical attention. Prime among these is excessive dryness of the skin termed xerosis and various eczemas. Disorders such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis (including dandruff) and ichthyoses (inherited forms of severe dryness) are exacerbated and conditions like pityriasis rosea exhibit an increased incidence. Very dry skin can cause itching of distressing proportions.

Which of these problems are more common in Bangalore?
The city has been referred to rather disparagingly as the ‘allergy capital’ of the country but the above examples of skin conditions would apply as much to Bangalore as to any other place experiencing mild winter.

What are the various symptoms that should not be ignored? Can these cause long-term damage?
Dry skin feels and looks rough and scaly. In addition, palms and soles may appear cracked and fissured. Itching, dry or moist largely circular patches denoting an eczema or dermatitis and a stretched or taut feeling to the skin are some of the indicators of impending trouble. Skin disorders often have a cascading effect; one leading to or co-inhabiting with another.

How long do problems related to dry skin last in Bangalore?
It would be safe to assume that problems related to dry skin last all of six months, from October till March. Although the summer makes its presence felt in early March, the prevailing low humidity is a governing factor.

What should be done to protect the skin during this season?
The dictum should be to wash with a mild, sometimes soap-free cleanser and moisturise immediately after on a slightly damp skin surface. Water used for bathing or cleansing the skin should be at room temperature or lukewarm to moderately hot but never very hot. Also, one should keep an appropriate sunblock at hand as the winter sun can be harsh on the skin. Anti-dandruff shampoos find their greatest use this time of the year.

Doctor, men generally tend to ignore skin care. How important is skin care for men?
It is important that they take care of their skin. Following in the footsteps of the fairer sex in terms of skin care mentioned above, will hold them in good stead.