What Is Winter Rash? Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors And Treatments

Winters can be harsh for the skin in many ways. The cold temperature and air during the season can reduce the moisture on the skin and make it dry.

Winter rash is a skin condition that mainly occurs during the winter season, the time when the temperature drops low, thus causing the skin to get dry and irritated and resulting in a lot of complications. Also, no matter how good your skin is for the rest of the year, winter rash can appear on any skin type.

In this article, we will discuss details on winter rash. Take a look.

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Causes Of Winter Rash

Our skin has many functions such as regulating the body temperature, protecting against pathogens and maintaining the hydration of the skin. When the skin gets dry for a long time, the execution of these tasks is impaired. [1]

Drying of the skin depends on many factors and colder temperature is one of them. Our skin naturally contains oil that helps keep it moisturised. But during the winters, the cold temperature causes the skin moisture to evaporate, leaving the skin cells dry and causing skin rash due to itching.

Some of the other causes of winter rash include:

• Overuse of harsh soaps.
• Stress.
• Infections.
• Reaction due to medicines.
• Sunburns
• Excessive bathing with hot water.
• Excessive use of room heaters.
• Latex allergy

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Symptoms Of Winter Rash

Apart from dryness of the skin, other symptoms of winter rash include:

• Rough skin
• Scaly patches on the skin.
• Itching of the skin
• General discomfort
• Stinging of the skin.
• Superficial cracking of the skin.
• Increased susceptibility of aged skin. [2]

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Risk Factors Of Winter Rash

Though winter rash can occur to anyone, some of the factors which can increase its risk are:

• Preexisting skin conditions such as dermatitis. [3]
• Having immunodeficiency conditions.
• Dehydration. [4]
• Having a job that involves extreme outdoor activities.
• Having extra sensitive skin.
• Having respiratory problems such as asthma.
• Rough fabrics like wool.
• Longer use of heaters.
• Certain cosmetic products. [5]

Complications Of Winter Rash

Prolonged winter rash can cause complications such as:

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Rosacea [6]
• Dermatitis
• Cold urticaria.
• Other skin infections.

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Diagnosis Of Winter Rash

Winter rash is mainly diagnosed by a physical examination of the symptoms by a medical expert. They may ask for the medical history of the patients to identify the underlying disease (if any) causing skin rashes. [7]

Doctors may suggest skin patch testing, a skin biopsy or genetic testing to rule out other possible skin conditions.

Treatments And Management Of Winter Rash

The best way to treat winter rash is to keep the skin moisturised and soothe the irritation. Some over-the-counter topical creams that contain lactic acid can be effective in treating this skin condition. If the skin is extremely cracked, a doctor may suggest dressing to prevent skin infection.

Other ways to manage winter rash include:

• Immediately apply moisturiser after bathing, including applying it several times a day. [8]
• Body oil or natural oils such as coconut oil is also the best option.
• Avoid using harsh soaps during winters. Opt for non-chemical or non-foaming products.
• Though cold, avoid using heaters for long hours.
• Use a humidifier to maintain the moisture of the home. [9]
• Avoid taking extremely hot showers or baths.
• Keep the body hydrated by drinking enough water.
• Wear gloves or clothes to prevent the skin from extremely cold weather.
• Avoid staying in the sun for long hours.

To Conclude

Winter rash can be limited to a small area or may affect the entire body. Consult a medical expert if the rashes get worse with time in spite of using moisturiser or home remedies.