Online Reporter
Fitness and Health Correspondent
SNIFFLES, sneezes, and constant nose-wiping might feel like the norm during winter, but dry, sore lips and red, irritated skin around the nose don’t have to be.
According to Cape Town-based dermatologist Dr Lauren Knight, much of this discomfort can be prevented with the right skincare choices.
“The skin around the nose and mouth is thinner and more delicate, which makes it more prone to damage from repeated wiping,” she explains. “Once the skin barrier is impaired, it can become dry, inflamed and more vulnerable to infection.”
A few simple changes in your winter skincare routine can make a big difference.
Here are seven common mistakes Dr Knight sees parents make — and how to avoid them:
1. Using rough or scented tissues
Friction and fragrance are fast tracks to irritation. Choose ultra-soft, unscented tissues and gently dab rather than rub. Follow up with a protective balm containing lanolin and cocoa butter.
2. Applying adult balms to children’s lips
Many adult balms contain ingredients that worsen irritation in children. Not all lip balms are safe for little ones. Opt for fragrance-free, hypo-allergenic formulas or those tested under paediatric control.
3. Relying on single-action moisturisers
Moisturising alone isn’t enough. Winter skin needs hydration and protection. Choose a dual-action balm that not only moisturises but also supports barrier repair and shields against further damage.
4. Not applying balm often enough
Consistency is key. Reapply balm to the nose and lips several times a day, especially after eating, drinking, or wiping. Keep a tube handy in your bag or car for easy top-ups.
5. Overusing antiseptics or steroid creams
Unless prescribed, avoid using antiseptic or cortisone creams, which may further irritate the skin. Instead, use gentle, repairing balms with ingredients like Centella Asiatica, vitamin E, and Shea butter.
6. Barrier creams are not just for adults
Children’s skin is thinner and more reactive, so barrier support is even more essential. Opt for products specifically formulated for children. Dr Knight recommends specialised paediatric balms such as LETI balm Paediatric Nose & Lip Repair for soothing and restoring delicate skin.
7. Ignoring allergies or infections
Persistent redness and irritation may signal something more than just dryness. “If your child has seasonal allergies, allergic rhinitis, or a secondary infection, a balm alone won’t solve it,” says Dr Knight. In these cases, consult your GP or dermatologist for appropriate treatment.
By choosing gentle, protective products and staying consistent with application, you can help keep your skin comfortable, healthy and resilient throughout the colder months.
Moreover, during winter, the chilled air and low humidity can take a toll on one of our most exposed body parts: our hands.
To combat the harsh environmental conditions, taking proactive steps in hand care is crucial. Lynsey Hammond, managing director of Kroko, a local manufacturer of skincare products, emphasises the importance of hand care during the winter months.
“The cold air, low humidity and indoor heating can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation and even painful cracks,” she warns.
“Proper hand care is essential not only for comfort but also for maintaining the skin’s protective barrier.”
To help you keep your hands soft and healthy this winter, Hammond offers some expert advice on the dos and don’ts of hand care, essential for weathering the cold season without discomfort.
Do not wash hands with hot water: Hot water may seem like a comforting option in the winter chill, but it strips the skin of its natural oils. Instead, cleanse hands with lukewarm water to avoid unnecessary dryness.
Moisturise regularly: After washing your hands, apply an emollient hand cream, preferably one that offers UV protection. Keeping a moisturiser near your sink can serve as a helpful reminder to hydrate your skin immediately after washing.
Use gentle soaps: Opt for all-natural, moisturising hand soaps that gently cleanse while replenishing lost moisture, steering clear of harsh chemicals that further dry the skin.
Wear gloves: For those in colder climates or with sensitive skin, gloves are vital. Protect your hands from biting winds while outdoors and use rubber gloves during household chores to shield your skin from harsh detergents.
Exfoliate gently: Limit exfoliation to once a week, utilising a gentle scrub to remove dead skin without damaging the protective barrier. Over-exfoliating can lead to further dryness and cracking.
Stay hydrated: Maintain hydration from within by drinking plenty of water. Just as in summer, proper hydration is key to keeping your skin’s moisture levels up in winter.
Protect cracked skin: If you notice dry and cracked skin despite your best efforts, use fast-acting solutions.
“Winter can be harsh on our hands, but with the right care before and throughout winter, you can keep them soft and healthy,” encourages Hammond.
By implementing these best practices, you can alleviate discomfort and preserve the integrity of your skin during the frostiest months. — iolnews.com
