When the skin turns dry in winter

Short answer: Dry winter skin comes from two sides. Cold air outside holds almost no moisture, and heated air inside holds even less. Clothing cannot add moisture to the skin, but a smooth base layer can reduce the friction that dry skin reacts to.

Both kinds of air are dry

Outside the air is cold and dry, inside it is warm and even drier. When you move between the two many times a day, your skin loses more moisture than it can take in. You notice it first where clothes sit close and rub, such as at the waist and thighs. See bamboo boxers.

Friction is felt more on dry skin

Dry skin reacts more strongly to rough fabrics and seams. What does not bother you in summer can suddenly scratch in winter. Look for tops with flat seams and a fabric that feels smooth. A soft sweatshirt over a thin base layer is often more comfortable than a thick wool jumper against the skin. See bamboo sweatshirts for men.

A smooth base layer helps

A smooth fabric against dry skin causes less irritation. The base layer touches your skin the most, so it matters more than anything on top. Choose the softest one, and keep the rougher layers on the outside where they do not touch the skin. See all men's clothing for base layers and tops.

Avoid sweating under too many layers

It sounds odd, but sweat can also irritate dry skin. If you come in from the cold wearing too many layers, you start to sweat, and the moisture rubs against the skin. Take a layer off when you come indoors. Thin layers are easier to adjust than one thick jumper.

Check labels and seams

A label at the neck or a rough side seam can rub dry skin all day. Cut the label off if it bothers you, and choose clothes with flat seams where you can. Some people also wear the base layer inside out so the seams face outwards. Small details make a difference when skin is dry.

Wash with care

Detergent that is not fully rinsed out can irritate dry skin. Use a mild, unscented detergent and dose by the instructions rather than adding extra. Skip the fabric softener. Wash at a low temperature and let clothes dry fully before folding them, so they feel soft when you put them on.

At night

At night your skin lies against sheets and duvet for many hours. A soft, smooth set to sleep in causes less friction than thick, rough clothing. Keep the bedroom from getting too warm so you do not sweat. Many people find their skin feels better in the morning after a calm night.

Keep an eye on your skin

Clothing can make winter more comfortable for dry skin, but it cannot fix everything. Notice how your skin reacts when you change fabric or detergent. If the skin cracks, itches persistently or turns red without improving, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor about it.

Frequently asked questions

Why does skin get dry in winter

Because both the cold air outside and the heated air inside contain very little moisture. The skin loses more than it takes in, especially when you move between the two.

What can clothing do

Offer a smooth base layer. Dry skin is more sensitive to friction, and a smooth fabric causes less irritation than rough fabrics and seams against the skin.

When should you talk to your doctor

If the skin cracks, itches persistently or turns red without improving. That is a medical assessment, so talk to your doctor about it.