How to care for your skin in winter
Winter weather can have a significant impact on skin health, with cold outdoor air and dry indoor heating contributing to moisture loss and irritation.
Healthcare professionals say the skin, the body’s largest organ, acts as a protective barrier that keeps moisture in and environmental irritants out. During winter, this barrier becomes compromised as cold air draws hydration away from the skin, while heated indoor environments worsen dryness.
The result is often skin that becomes sensitive, irritated, and inflamed, despite having felt balanced during warmer months.
Experts warn that adding stronger skincare products, such as retinols or vitamin C serums, to already damaged skin can worsen irritation rather than improve it.
They advise people experiencing ongoing skin concerns to consult a GP or dermatologist to determine whether symptoms are seasonal or linked to an underlying medical condition.
Winter conditions can aggravate chronic skin disorders, including eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and cystic acne.
According to healthcare professionals, these conditions should not be treated as purely cosmetic concerns. Medical advice is recommended if symptoms persist, affect quality of life, or fail to improve after four to six weeks of using a gentle skincare routine.
In South Africa, medical scheme members may have access to day-to-day benefits that cover GP consultations and specialist referrals. Some schemes also offer virtual GP consultations as a first step for patients seeking professional advice.
Where a chronic skin condition has been formally diagnosed, treatment may qualify for cover under Prescribed Minimum Benefits, depending on the condition and medical scheme rules. Benefits can include medication, specialist treatment and related consultations.
Healthcare professionals encourage medical scheme members to check their plan benefits and any possible co-payments or out-of-pocket costs before seeking treatment.
Experts also recommend keeping winter skincare routines simple and consistent, rather than introducing multiple new products during colder months.
Tips
A gentle cleanser: Skip harsh foaming cleansers, aggressive micellar waters, and hot water. Use a cream or gel cleanser with lukewarm water at night. Skip the cleanser in the morning and keep to plain water with a clean face cloth to dry your face.
An effective moisturiser: Lightweight gels are usually not enough in colder months. You need both humectants (draw in moisture) and occlusives (seal it in), especially in winter.
Daily SPF: UV rays reach your skin all year round, even in winter. A daily SPF that protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays is essential for long-term skin health.
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