Skin deep: Dry winter days take toll on skin

Inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis and eczema can peak in the winter months due to fluctuations in our environment. Now that spring is approaching, many patients will be seeking advice on how to minimize the redness brought on by wintry weather. To give them effective advice, we first need to understand how the redness was created and how to treat it.We think of rosy cheeks as a sign of health; however, sometimes this blushing can cause more harm than we realize. When a skin cell is damaged, either through environmental pollutants, incorrect products, mistreating the skin or injury, the cell wall starts to break down and a process called the arachidonic acid cascade takes place.A tear in the skin cell membrane results in the release of phospholipase enzymes that break down the lipids in the cell wall. Arachidonic acid, also found in the cellular membrane, is released and from there, histamine and prostaglandins are stimulated. Histamine causes inflammation and prostaglandins cause vasodilation. White blood cells rush to the area to prevent the spread of the assault. Three enzymes are released during this reaction: hyaluronidase, which breaks down hyaluronic acid; elastase, which breaks down elastin; and collagenase, which breaks down collagen. These enzymes decimate the dermal layers, ultimately resulting in premature aging.In younger individuals, the cascade may not result in permanent damage, as collagen and elastin are constantly produced and the skin is naturally more resilient. But they will cause unslightly wrinkles In older patients.To reduce the chance of permanent damage, there are a few tips we can keep in mind when making recommendations for inflamed skin:Skip hot baths and showersEven though hot water may feel good while we bathe, heat melts the essential lipids in the skin, resulting in a compromised barrier. When the barrier is compromised, water escapes from the epidermis and bacteria and other antigens can cause irritation.Avoid irritantsHarsh cleansers are a prime culprit when inflammation occurs. Just as excessive heat melts the lipids in the skin, alkaline soaps deplete the lipids. Products with a pH similar to the skin (4.5 to 5.5) will reduce the chance of redness.Irritants such as specially denatured (SD) alcohol, artificial fragrance and artificial colours should be avoided as they all cause increased inflammation.Look for healing, soothing ingredients Sea Buckthorn helps with tissue regeneration and can treat acne, dermatitis, irritated skin, cuts and burns, restoring health to inflamed skin. It is an anti-oxidant-rich ingredient that can also help reduce the effects of sun radiation.Pilewort soothes and reduces redness and also helps decongest skin tissues and reduce blotchiness. Licorice and vitamin E calm skin irritation while providing antioxidant protection.Silicones are a great alternative to mineral oils. Although mineral oils are a great barrier sealant, they can sometimes cause breakouts. Silicones form a mesh-like barrier on the skin, allowing for respiration, but keeping essential moisture within the skin.Oatmeal has been used for centuries as an excellent anti-inflammatory and immunostimulant to control itching, rashes and inflamed skin conditions. The lipids within this extract can protect the barrier function of the epidermis.For patients suffering from the skin disorders rosacea, eczema and psoriasis, controlling inflammation is of utmost importance. Even though we cannot cure these disorders, we can help to control further irritation of the skin by using calming ingredients and controlling trigger factors.And keep in mind, with summer right around the corner, stress levels will start to go down, relaxation will set in and vacation will bring more calm to reddened skin issues.Holly Sherrard, education manager at the International Dermal Institute, is a trainer, public speaker, lecturer and writer on the topic of skin care.

Skin deep: Dry winter days take toll on skin

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