Why does my skin itch more in the winter than in the summer?
Cold temperatures and low humidity increase the risk of skin barrier disruption which results in dry, itchy skin. When the skin barrier is damaged, there is an increase in water loss from the skin which results in drier skin.
How can I reduce that flaky appearance of my skin?
Use of daily moisturizers and a moisturizing bodywash instead of bar soap can be helpful in improving the skin barrier. Avoid very hot showers and pat your skin dry instead of rubbing with a towel. Moisturizer ingredients such as lactic acid, urea, alpha hydroxy acids can reduce the appearance of flaky skin.
Are all moisturizers the same?
There are different active ingredients in moisturizers. While many may share common ingredients, some are better than others for restoring hydration to the skin. Ceramides and hyaluronic acid are examples of moisturizer ingredients that can help restore the skin barrier. Urea can improve skin hydration.
Can my diet help reduce dry skin related itch?
Data exists to support reduced itch when a diet is high in essential fatty acids. In addition, plant-based diets can be anti-inflammatory.
What is Omega 3 fatty acid?
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are the primary Omega 3 fatty acids.
ALA -plant based: flaxseed, chia seed, walnuts, hemp seeds, soybean and canola oils.
DHA and EPA: fish such as salmon, fish oil supplements.
References:
- 2024 Aug 24;16(17):2829. doi: 10.3390/nu16172829
- Acta Derm Venereol . 2020 Jan 9;100(2):5609. doi: 2340/00015555-3344
- Life (Basel). 2024 Nov 7;14(11):1439. doi: 3390/life14111439
- Am J Clin Dermatol. 2003;4(11):771-88. doi: 10.2165/00128071-200304110-00005
- J Cosmet Dermatol 2024 May;23(5):1533-1540. doi: 10.1111/jocd.16171.