Cold weather not just causes cough and flu, but also affects the skin. Dr DM Mahajan, senior consultant, dermatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, says: “Cold weather affects the skin mainly because low temperatures reduce blood flow to the skin surface.
When it is cold, the body tries to conserve heat by narrowing blood vessels, especially in the hands, feet, ears and nose. This reduced circulation means less oxygen and nutrients reach the skin, making it more sensitive and prone to damage. Cold air also holds very little moisture, which dries out the skin and weakens its natural protective barrier.
In conditions like chilblains, repeated exposure to cold followed by sudden warming causes inflammation in small blood vessels, leading to redness, swelling and itching.
Cold urticaria happens when the skin reacts abnormally to cold, releasing chemicals like histamine, which cause hives, itching or swelling. People with sensitive skin, poor circulation, anaemia or those who stay outdoors for long periods are more likely to experience these problems during winter.”
Other effects of cold on skin and hair and how to check them
Apart from chilblains and urticaria, cold weather can cause very dry skin, cracking, eczema flare-ups and increased skin sensitivity. Lips often become chapped, and heels may develop painful cracks due to loss of moisture. The scalp can become dry and itchy, leading to dandruff or increased hair fall.
Cold air, combined with indoor heating, strips moisture from both skin and hair, making hair look dull, frizzy and brittle. To check for cold-related damage, look for signs like persistent dryness, flaking, redness, itching or small cracks that do not heal easily.
For hair, notice increased breakage, excessive hair fall, or an itchy scalp. Regularly feeling tightness after washing, even without visible dryness, is also a sign that the skin barrier is affected. Early care can prevent these issues from worsening.
Skin problems due to frequent water exposure and how to prevent them
People who are frequently exposed to water, such as homemakers, cleaners, healthcare workers and swimmers, often develop a condition called irritant contact dermatitis or hand eczema. Repeated contact with water, soaps and detergents removes the natural oils from the skin, weakening its protective barrier.
This leads to dryness, redness, itching, scaling and sometimes painful cracks. In some cases, the skin may become thickened or develop small blisters. To prevent this, it is important to limit direct water exposure whenever possible. Use gloves while washing dishes or cleaning, and choose mild, fragrance-free soaps.
Dry the skin gently after washing and apply a thick moisturiser immediately to lock in moisture. Using barrier creams before water exposure can also help protect the skin from damage over time.
When to consult a doctor?
You should consult a doctor if skin or hair problems persist despite basic care, or if symptoms become severe. Seek medical advice if you notice painful swelling, severe itching, open sores, oozing, bleeding cracks or signs of infection such as pus, warmth or fever.
Sudden hives, swelling of lips or face, or difficulty breathing after cold exposure need urgent attention, as they may indicate a serious allergic reaction. If chilblains keep recurring every winter or do not heal within a few weeks, a doctor can check for underlying circulation or blood-related issues.
Excessive hair fall, patchy hair loss or severe scalp problems also require evaluation. Early consultation helps in proper diagnosis, timely treatment and prevention of long-term skin damage or complications.
