People who live in areas with seasonal weather changes may develop a dry, itchy rash during the winter months. A winter skin rash can happen due to colder temperatures, low humidity, and lifestyle factors.
Winter rash refers to extremely dry or dehydrated skin in winter. Causes include cold temperatures, low humidity levels, and using central heating.
This article explains the causes of winter rash and how to prevent it.
Water and natural oils in the skin help it stay moist and enhance its protective abilities. Winter rash occurs when the skin loses too much moisture during cold seasons.
Cold, dry air and central heating can suck the water and oils from the skin. Other environmental factors, lifestyle factors, and certain medical conditions can also cause dry skin and rashes.
Winter weather can also trigger some skin conditions, such as:
- Dermatitis: This refers to any inflammation of the skin. Dermatitis causes dry, itchy patches to form. It may result from poor circulation or exposure to harsh chemicals, an allergen, or an infection.
- Asteatotic eczema: This is also known as “eczema craquelé”. It happens when dry, itchy skin cracks, causing irregular fissures. It is
more common in older adults. - Rosacea: Rosacea is a bacterial infection that causes rashes and small, red bumps on the skin.
- Cold urticaria: This rare skin condition causes swollen, itchy bumps called hives to form after exposure to the cold. Some people develop hives after swimming in cold water, while others are sensitive to cold air. The rash is temporary and lasts for 1 to 2 hours after exposure to the cold.
- Psoriasis. Cold, dry weather can trigger psoriasis flares. Other triggers include stress, smoking, and certain infections.
A winter rash can spread to skin anywhere on the body or only affect certain areas, commonly the hands or arms, as they are more exposed to cold temperatures than other areas of the body.
Symptoms of a winter rash include:
- skin discoloration that may be red, pink, violet, gray, or brown depending on skin tone
- itching
- rough or scaly patches
- bumps or blisters
- flaking
- inflammation
Treatments for winter rash should focus on re-moisturizing the skin and soothing any irritation. People can use moisturizers, oils, or creams to nourish and rehydrate the skin.
A dermatologist will likely prescribe medications or topical ointments for people with skin conditions such as rosacea or dermatitis.
Making simple lifestyle changes can also help.
People can try the following home remedies to relieve the symptoms of a winter rash:
Moisturize
Applying moisturizer after taking a bath or shower can help prevent the skin from losing moisture. Products that contain urea or lactic acid may provide even more hydration.
Fragranced skin care products contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin. People with sensitive skin may benefit from using fragrance-free moisturizers and creams.
Some natural products can soothe the dry, cracked skin that characterizes winter rash. For example, aloe vera gel and coconut oil contain both antibacterial and moisturizing elements and are safe to use on cracked skin.
People can apply moisturizers several times a day if necessary.
Read about the difference between skin hydration and moisture.
Natural oils
Natural oils contain nutrients and minerals that can help soothe and replenish irritated skin. A
This review found that the following oils may help:
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil compounds, such as lanolin and lauric acids, can improve the skin’s barrier function and promote healing.
- Safflower oil: Safflower oil contains high amounts of linoleic acid which has anti-inflammatory effects, making it ideal for soothing irritated skin.
- Avocado oil: Avocado oil contains vitamins C, D, and E, making it an excellent nourishing oil for dry or damaged skin.
Olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties, but it promotes water loss in the skin, reducing its barrier function. People with dermatitis or those with dry skin should avoid using olive oil.
Read about the benefits of olive oil for the skin.
Avoid harsh soaps
Exposure to cold, dry air can weaken the skin and make it more sensitive than usual. People who experience winter rash might benefit from changing their regular cleanser and body wash during the winter.
Look for non-foaming cleansers and body washes. Avoid products that contain alcohols, parabens, synthetic dyes, or fragrances.
Turn down the heat
Central heating systems suck moisture from the air, and people should use them sparingly, even when cranking up the heat seems like a good way to escape the cold.
Also, consider turning the heat down or shutting it off at night.
Use a humidifier
A humidifier can bring much-needed moisture back into the home.
Keeping a humidifier in the bedroom or other commonly used areas can help offset the dryness caused by central heating system.
Winter rash is not a medical emergency, but if symptoms continue after a person has tried home remedies or if the rash becomes painful, it may be a good idea to contact a doctor.
Doctors can diagnose winter rash with a physical examination. During the exam, the healthcare professional will also review the person’s medical history for indications that they may have a particular skin condition.
A doctor may recommend additional tests to rule out other skin conditions. Some of these tests include:
- patch testing for allergies
- genetic testing for certain skin conditions
- a skin biopsy
Dermatology resources
Visit our dedicated hub for more research-backed information and in-depth resources on dermatology.
Adjusting skin care and lifestyle habits can help prevent winter rash.
Skin care tips for the winter include:
- using non-foaming cleansers and body washes
- moisturizing multiple times a day, especially after taking a bath or a shower
- avoiding extremely hot showers or baths
- avoiding scratching and rubbing the skin
- applying sunscreen to the face and neck
- using serums or oils that contain antioxidants to reduce inflammation
- avoiding skin care products that contain harsh chemicals, alcohols, and fragrances
Lifestyle changes that can help prevent winter rash include:
- using a humidifier
- using central heating system sparingly
- staying hydrated
- wearing gloves when outside
- avoiding spending long periods in direct sunlight
Read about how to get glowing skin.
Anyone can get winter rash, but some people are at higher risk than others. A history of certain skin conditions can increase a person’s likelihood of developing winter rash.
Risk factors for winter rash can include:
- having rosacea
- having eczema
- having asthma
- allergies
- spending long periods outside
- viral or bacterial infections
- sensitivity to ingredients in cosmetics or other skin products
- older age
- stress
- dehydration
Read more about the causes of a skin rash.
Winter rash occurs when the skin loses too much moisture due to exposure to cold, dry air. The rash may involve itching, inflammation, and flaky patches of skin.
Some winter rashes only affect certain areas, such as the hands and arms, while others can spread throughout the body.
People with skin conditions such as dermatitis or psoriasis may experience worse symptoms during the winter.
Moisturizing regularly and investing in a humidifier can help prevent winter rash. Use natural oils to nourish the skin and lock in hydration, but avoid using olive oil, as it can worsen dry skin.
Contact a doctor if the winter rash gets worse or does not respond to home treatments. Persistent dry skin can indicate another underlying condition.