Winter Skin & Hair Care Guide by a Dermatologist: Common Cold-Weather Problems and How to Prevent Them

• Winter dryness is caused by reduced humidity and barrier damage
• Hot water worsens skin sensitivity and scalp issues
• Eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff often worsen in winter
• The scalp needs hydration, not over-cleansing
• Dermatologist-guided winter routines prevent long-term damage

Why Does Winter Damage Skin and Hair? | Dermatologist Explanation

During winter, environmental humidity drops significantly. This leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL)—a process where moisture evaporates rapidly from the skin and scalp.

As a result:

• The skin barrier weakens
• Natural oils reduce
• Skin becomes dry, itchy, and sensitive
• Hair loses moisture, shine, and elasticity

Winter skin and hair problems are not cosmetic issues—they are biological responses to climate stress.

Common Winter Skin Problems and Their Causes

1. Dry, Itchy, and Sensitive Skin

Cause: Cold air and indoor heating strip essential lipids from the skin.

Symptoms include:

• • Tightness after bathing
  • White flakes or rough patches
  • Increased sensitivity to skincare products

Dermatologist Advice: Barrier repair is more important than exfoliation in winter.

2. Eczema and Psoriasis Flare-Ups in Winter

Winter is a known trigger for inflammatory skin conditions.

Why flare-ups increase:

• • Temperature fluctuations (cold outdoors, warm indoors)
  • Reduced skin hydration
  • Barrier disruption

Preventive winter protocols are essential for patients with eczema or psoriasis.

The Hot Water Trap: Why Dermatologists Advise Against It

Hot water feels comforting but causes long-term skin and scalp damage.

Effects of Hot Water on Skin and Hair

• • Removes protective oils
  • Weakens the skin barrier
  • Increases dryness and itching
  • Triggers scalp irritation and dandruff

Clinical Recommendation:

• • Use lukewarm water only
  • Keep showers short
  • Moisturise immediately after bathing

Winter Hair Problems: Dermatologist-Approved Solutions

1. Dry and Frizzy Hair in Winter

Cause: Low moisture in the air dehydrates the hair shaft.

Best Winter Hair Care Routine:

• • Moisturising shampoo and conditioner on alternate days
  • Serum applied only to mid-lengths and ends
  • Avoid excessive heat styling

2. Dandruff and Flaky Scalp in Winter

Cause: Cold weather disrupts scalp balance.

Dermatologist-Recommended Fix:

• • Use anti-dandruff shampoo
  • Wash hair with lukewarm water

Supportive Home Ritual: Warm coconut or rosemary oil massage for 30 minutes before washing.

3. Hair Fall During Winter Season

Why winter hair fall increases:

• • Reduced scalp circulation
  • Nutritional gaps
  • Increased hair breakage

Clinical Strategy:

• • Peptide-based scalp serums
  • Protein-rich balanced diet
  • Avoid tight hairstyles

4. Itchy Scalp in Cold Weather

Solution:

• • Mild, sulfate-free shampoos
  • Light scalp oiling
  • Reduced wash frequency

5. Split Ends and Hair Breakage

• • Trims every 6–8 weeks
  • Leave-in conditioners or masks
  • Limit heat styling

6. Static Hair and Flyaways

• • Wooden combs
  • Light serum
  • Avoid synthetic caps

7. Dull and Lifeless Hair

• • Weekly warm oil scalp massage
  • Hydrating scalp treatments
  • Wash hair only 2–3 times a week

Professional Insight: Why Winter Care Must Be Gentle

Winter damage requires barrier repair, hydration, and consistency—not aggressive treatments.

ANLON’s winter protocols are designed to protect skin biology and scalp health.

Actionable Winter Skin & Hair Care Checklist

Daily

• Lukewarm showers
• Moisturise on damp skin
• Hydrate internally

Weekly

• Scalp oil or hydration mask
• Minimal heat styling

Seasonal

• Hair trims every 6–8 weeks
• Dermatology consultation if symptoms persist

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is winter hair fall normal?

Yes. Seasonal hair fall is common and usually temporary.

2. How often should I wash my hair in winter?

2–3 times a week is ideal for most scalp types.

3. Can hot water cause dandruff?

Yes. Hot water worsens scalp dryness and flaking.

4. Is oiling necessary in winter?

Yes, but moderation is key. Over-oiling can clog follicles.

5. When should I consult a dermatologist in winter?

If dryness, itching, dandruff, or hair fall persists beyond 3–4 weeks.

A Refined Closing Note

Winter need not compromise skin comfort or hair vitality. With dermatologist-guided care and mindful rituals, the season can be navigated with confidence and calm.

Experience the synergy of aesthetic medicine and artistic grooming at ANLON Art Salon—where beauty meets science.

* Results vary by skin and hair biology. A consultation is recommended for personalised guidance.

Book your consultation at Anlon Skin and Aesthetics today.

Nungambakkam & Kotturpuram, Chennai
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Last Updated: December 2025 | Version 1.0
ANLON Art Salon — Where Beauty Meets Science