The Top 5 Winter Skin Conditions Dermatologists See Every December

Winter may be a festive season, but for dermatologists, it’s also the busiest time of year. Cold air, wind, holiday stress, and indoor heating cause a surge in certain skin conditions that many people don’t experience any other time of year. If your skin seems more sensitive, itchy, or inflamed in December, you’re not alone.

Here are the top five winter skin issues dermatologists treat—and how to prevent them.

1. Eczema and Severe Dryness

Winter air has the lowest humidity of any season, which rapidly dries the skin. Eczema-prone areas such as the hands, neck, and creases of elbows and knees become inflamed.

Symptoms:

• Redness

• Flaking

• Cracking

• Itching that worsens at night

Prevention:
Use barrier-repair moisturizers and avoid hot showers.

2. Psoriasis Flare-Ups

Psoriasis is heavily influenced by environmental changes. Lack of sunlight and dry air both worsen symptoms.

Symptoms:

• Thicker plaques

• Intense scaling

• Cracking or bleeding skin
  

Why it worsens in winter:
Lower vitamin D levels and compromised skin barrier function.

3. Rosacea Redness

Fluctuating temperatures—cold outside, heat inside—are major triggers for rosacea.

Common triggers:

• Wind exposure

• Holiday alcohol

• Spicy foods

• Stress

Tip:
Use gentle skincare and protect the face with scarves outdoors.

4. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Winter causes overgrowth of yeast on the skin, leading to flaking and redness around the scalp, sides of the nose, and eyebrows.

Symptoms:

• Dandruff

• Facial flaky patches

• Itchy scalp

Treatments:
Medicated shampoos, antifungal creams, and barrier repair.

5. Winter Itch (Xerosis)

Even people without skin conditions often develop extreme dryness called “winter itch.”

Causes:

• Indoor heating

• Long, warm showers

• Cold wind

• Dehydration

Best fix:
A humidifier + thick moisturizer.

Winter triggers predictable skin issues, but with targeted skincare, most can be prevented. If symptoms worsen or become painful, a dermatologist can tailor a treatment plan to restore your skin’s comfort and clarity.