Itchy Skin Rashes In The Winter? What You Can Do
Posted on: 16 December 2016
If you have started to develop a skin rash or irritation this winter that just does not seem to go away on its own, you may wonder what is going on and what you can do to deal with it. There are numerous reasons why you may be experiencing skin problems in the winter and a wide variety of dermatology treatments that can help to address these issues. Before you succumb to your frustrations with your itchy skin rashes, get to know some of the possible causes and solutions to your problem. Then, you can get some relief for your discomfort and start to feel better as soon as possible.
Eczema or Psoriasis and How to Treat Them
Chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can be more problematic in the winter when conditions are harsh on your skin. Additionally, both of these chronic skin issues can also be triggered by stress, and the holidays and the new year can cause a great deal of stress on many people. As such, eczema and psoriasis flare-ups could be the cause of your itchy and uncomfortable winter skin rashes.
If this is the case, moisturizing with over-the-counter eczema and psoriasis lotions can help to reduce the discomfort that you feel. Anti-inflammatory creams and ointments can also help with flare-ups as can prescription medications and UV light treatments through a dermatologist's office. When your eczema or psoriasis are not flaring up during the winter months (i.e. you are in between flare-ups), you want to make sure you keep your skin moisturized by applying lotions in the morning, evening, and after prolonged cold exposure, and you will want to try stress management techniques to keep your stress levels in check.
Cold Urticaria and Treatments
Cold urticaria is a condition that essentially amounts to an allergy to cold air and temperatures. This condition is also often referred to as cold hives and is an issue that occurs when the skin is directly exposed to extremely cold temperatures for any length of time (but is often worse when a person is outside in the cold for long periods of time).
A person with cold urticaria will develop red spots or large welts on their face and elsewhere after exposure to the cold. These hives could be warm to the touch and painful or itchy in nature. Keeping your skin as covered as possible and limiting the amount of time you spend in the cold can help to prevent cold urticaria hives. Antihistamines, either over-the-counter or prescription can help with this issue as well. Applying an anti-itch or cortisone cream to the hives will also help to relieve discomfort until they clear up.
With these possible causes of your winter skin rashes and the treatments for them in mind, you can better take care of your skin this winter and avoid as much winter-related skin discomfort as possible. For more information and treatment options, visit a dermatology clinic in your area.
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