Winter skin solutions: great skin-care by dermatologist

What to do in the winter to protect your skin from developing dry skin and winter skin. The winter in Chicago is harsh on the skin. One of the most common conditions seen in the winter is dry skin. Dry air causes the skin to lose moisture and then crack. It presents with dry, cracked hands, scaly patches on the arms or thighs, and if it is not treated, it can progress to a persistent rash called xerotic dermatitis. Our skin naturally makes protective oils, which are the most abundant on the face and mid section of the body, and less abundant on the arms and legs. Since our hands and arms have much less of this natural protection, and are the areas most likely to come in contact with the elements, the hands are the most common areas that get dry skin and winter itch. If we follow a few simple rules, most cases of dry skin can be prevented. I see many patients in the area who could have easily prevented a visit to the dermatologist by following these simple rules:

1. No hot showers or baths:

- Limit your bath/shower to no more than 10 minutes per day.

- Take tepid showers. That means, if there is steam on the mirror, your shower is too hot, and lower its temperature.

- Try to shower at night, and not in the morning, when your body is colder, and you are more likely to warm up with a hotter shower.

2. Use mild soaps.

- Use unscented mild soaps like Dove unscented or Oil of Olay

- If you can, use liquid body washes, which are less drying. Examples are Oil of Olay body wash.

- Do not soap areas that rarely get dirty, like the elbows and knees; a simple rinse with tepid water will suffice.

3. Moisturize your skin:

- If you take baths, add some bath oil to the water.

- Your skin cells are the most hydrated after a shower/bath, however, since the soap you used has washed away your natural oils, the water in your skin will quickly evaporate, and leave you dryer than before. Therefore, you can trap the moisture in your skin by moisturizing. The best moisturizer is simple petroleum jelly, like Vaseline jelly or SBR-Lipocream. Just apply a generous amount to your skin after a shower/bath and use a washcloth to wipe away the excess.

- During the day, use humectants creams on your hands. Humectants bring moisture to your skin. One example of an over the counter brand is AmLactin cream. The above hints will help prevent dry skin from becoming a more persistent rash. Always remember to see your doctor if you have an ongoing rash, which might need to be treated with prescription ointments. Dr. Memar, a dermatologist, is an active Clinical Assistant Professor at Northwestern University, and medical director of Academic Dermatology & Skin Cancer Institute. A dermatologist is a medical sub-specialist who addresses the health and disease of skin, hair, nails, and mucosa.

A dermatologist is an expert in the anatomy, function, surgery and pathology of the skin. They are uniquely trained in clinical medicine, tissue pathology and surgery pertaining to the skin. Today, dermatologists are in the forefront of medical research, clinical practice, and surgical innovation having to do with the health and beauty of skin.

The following conditions are just some of the most common conditions treated by Dr. Memar: Acne
Hair Loss
Rosacea
Wrinkles
Cysts
Eczema
Growths on the skin
Psoriasis
Excessive hair
Excessive sweating
Ringworm Nail fungus
Warts
Herpes
Shingles
Skin cancer
Moles
Fatty deposits in skin
Keloids
Scars
Insect bites
Skin spots




We take the practice of dermatology very seriously, and intend to provide the friendliest and highest quality service in all aspects of dermatology. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.

Dr. Memar is certified by the American Board of Dermatology. He is a fellow of the American Society for Mohs Surgery, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. He is a member of the American Academy of Facial P