Managing Dry Skin and Eczema in Winter: What You Need to Know

Why Does Winter Make Dry Skin and Eczema Worse?

As temperatures drop, many people experience dry, itchy, and irritated skin. Cold air, harsh winds, and indoor heating all contribute to stripping the skin of its natural moisture, leaving it prone to redness, flaking, and discomfort.

For individuals with eczema (atopic dermatitis), winter can be particularly challenging, as the combination of dry air and increased use of woollen clothing can trigger flare-ups.

At Village Pharmacy Charlton, we help residents in Greenwich, Woolwich, Blackheath, and Kidbrooke find the best skincare solutions to protect their skin during winter. Whether you need expert advice, emollients, or medicated treatments, we’re here to help.

Common Winter Skin Problems and Their Causes

1. Dry Skin

Winter air has lower humidity, which leads to moisture loss from the skin. Indoor heating further depletes hydration levels, making skin feel rough, tight, and itchy.

2. Eczema Flare-Ups

Eczema-prone skin struggles to retain moisture, which means colder months can trigger more redness, inflammation, and irritation. Woollen clothing and hot showers can also aggravate symptoms.

3. Chapped Lips

Lips lack oil glands, making them particularly susceptible to drying out. Cold winds and habitual lip-licking can cause cracking, soreness, and peeling.

4. Hand Irritation

Frequent handwashing, essential for winter illness prevention, can strip natural oils, leading to dry, cracked hands. Using alcohol-based sanitisers worsens the problem.

How to Protect Your Skin in Cold Weather

1. Choose the Right Moisturiser

A good moisturiser locks in hydration and strengthens the skin barrier. Look for products with:

• Hyaluronic Acid – Helps retain moisture
• Ceramides – Strengthen the skin’s protective barrier
• Shea Butter & Glycerin – Provide deep hydration

If you have eczema, opt for fragrance-free emollients and prescription creams when needed. Visit us at Village Pharmacy Charlton for recommendations tailored to your skin type.

2. Take Shorter, Lukewarm Showers

Hot water strips natural oils from the skin. Instead:

• Use lukewarm water
• Keep showers under 10 minutes
• Pat skin dry instead of rubbing
• Apply moisturiser immediately after bathing

3. Use a Humidifier

Heating systems reduce air moisture, making skin drier. Using a humidifier at home helps keep the air comfortable and prevents excessive dryness.

4. Protect Your Hands and Lips

• Apply hand cream after washing hands
• Wear gloves when going outdoors
• Use lip balm with beeswax or shea butter to prevent chapping

5. Wear Soft, Breathable Fabrics

Wool and synthetic fabrics can irritate sensitive skin. Choose cotton layers as a base and avoid itchy materials that may trigger eczema flare-ups.

When to Seek Help for Dry Skin or Eczema

If your skin remains dry, cracked, or inflamed despite using moisturisers, it may be time to seek professional help.

Signs You May Need Pharmacy or GP Support:

• Severe itching or discomfort affecting daily life
• Red, swollen, or infected skin
• Bleeding or painful cracks in the skin
• Persistent rashes that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments

At Village Pharmacy Charlton, we can recommend prescription treatments, specialist skincare products, and lifestyle changes to help you manage eczema and dry skin effectively. Visit our Skincare and Health Services for more information.

Best Skincare Products for Winter Protection

Choosing the right skincare products is crucial to maintaining hydrated, healthy skin during winter. Some effective options include:

• Emollient Creams – Provide long-lasting moisture and soothe irritation
• Ointments – Thicker than creams, ideal for very dry or cracked skin
• Barrier Repair Lotions – Strengthen the skin’s protective layer
• Mild, Soap-Free Cleansers – Prevent further dryness from harsh soaps

For personalised skincare recommendations, speak to our team at Village Pharmacy Charlton.

Eczema Management: Long-Term Strategies

Eczema is a chronic skin condition, meaning flare-ups can occur at any time. However, following a consistent routine can help keep symptoms under control.

1. Stick to a Daily Moisturising Routine

Apply emollients morning and night, even when symptoms aren’t active.

2. Avoid Common Triggers

• Harsh soaps and detergents
• Long, hot baths
• Sudden temperature changes
• Stress and anxiety

3. Use Medicated Creams When Needed

If over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective, prescription options like steroid creams or antihistamines may help. Visit our pharmacy to discuss suitable treatments for eczema flare-ups.

Visit Village Pharmacy Charlton for Skincare Advice

If you’re struggling with dry skin or eczema, our pharmacists can recommend the best treatments and skincare solutions tailored to your needs.

We Offer:

• Over-the-counter and prescription skincare treatments
• Eczema-friendly moisturisers and emollients
• Advice on daily skincare routines
• Referrals for more severe cases

Contact Us Today

Visit us at: 9 The Village, London SE7 8UG
 Call us on: 020 8858 0907
 Email: nhspharmacy.fxf89@nhs.net

For more information, visit our website and explore our full range of skincare and health services.

Final Thoughts

Cold weather can be tough on the skin, but the right skincare routine and expert advice can help prevent dryness and eczema flare-ups. Whether you need moisturisers, prescription treatments, or general skin health advice, Village Pharmacy Charlton is here to help.

Protect your skin this winter and keep it hydrated, healthy, and comfortable all season long.