Winter Skin SOS: Why Your Skin Feels So Dry — and How to Fix It
By Dr. Katherine Nolan, MD FAAD
Board-Certified Dermatologist • Founder of Carabella Dermatology
When Cold Weather Strikes, Your Skin Feels It
Each winter in Indiana, humidity drops, indoor heat rises, and the result is the same—tight, flaky, uncomfortable skin. As a dermatologist, I see a surge in patients struggling with dryness, itching, and sensitivity as soon as temperatures dip. The good news: with a few targeted changes, you can restore your skin’s barrier and glow even through the coldest months.
Why Winter Dries Out the Skin
Several factors combine to strip moisture this time of year:
Low humidity: Cold air holds less water, pulling moisture out of the top layer of skin.
Indoor heating: Forced-air systems dehydrate the environment even further.
Long, hot showers: They feel good but wash away your natural protective oils.
Harsh cleansers or exfoliants: Over-cleansing can weaken your skin barrier.
When the barrier is compromised, tiny cracks form, leading to irritation, redness, and that uncomfortable “tight” feeling.
Key Ingredients That Restore Hydration
Look for products rich in barrier-building and water-binding ingredients:
Ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier
Glycerin and hyaluronic acid to draw water into the skin
Petrolatum to lock it in
Some of my favorite over-the-counter lines include CeraVe, Vanicream, and Bioderma products. Apply moisturizer within 60 seconds after showering to seal in hydration.
Simple Habit Changes That Make a Difference
Take short, lukewarm showers instead of long, hot ones.
Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser or even a creamy wash.
Add a humidifier to your bedroom or workspace to maintain moisture in the air.
Switch to a thicker cream or ointment at night rather than a lotion.
Protect your hands—frequent washing and hand sanitizer can worsen cracks and eczema.
These small adjustments help your moisturizer actually work.
When Dry Skin Becomes a Medical Issue
If your skin develops persistent redness, flaking, or burning, you may be dealing with eczema or another inflammatory condition. At Carabella Dermatology, I offer personalized treatment plans, including prescription barrier-repair creams, short-course topical steroids or non-steroidal options, and soothing in-office therapies for stubborn winter eczema.
The Carabella Approach
At Carabella Dermatology, my goal is to simplify skincare while delivering real, physician-level results. Whether your concern is seasonal dryness, eczema, or overall barrier repair, we focus on evidence-based treatments, transparent pricing, and same-day access—without insurance hurdles.
Schedule a Visit
Ready to restore soft, healthy skin this winter?
Book your personalized dermatology visit at Carabella Dermatology in Carmel, Indiana.
Book online or text 317-778-5030 to schedule.
Carabella Dermatology
Medical • Cosmetic • Hair • Pediatrics
Dr. Katherine Nolan, MD FAAD — Board-Certified Dermatologist
Carmel, Indiana | www.carabelladermatology.com