Help tackle winter skin in every room of your house

When winter rolls around bringing dry skin with it, it’s tempting to hide under the blankets and not come out ‘til summer. But why not climb out of bed and make your surroundings work for you? Let’s take a tour of your home to see how it can help you take charge of caring for your winter skin.

Take charge of caring for your skin, in every room of your house

In the bedroom

• Does wool supercharge your itching? If you can’t remove it from your wardrobe, use a soft cotton base layer to create a gentle barrier for your skin
• To avoid overheating, choose cotton bedding and pyjamas and go easy on the layers. Being too hot overnight can further irritate winter skin

In the bathroom

• This is where a lot winter skincare takes place. When choosing products, select gentle, fragrance free, moisturising options that won't irritate your skin
• Too-hot, too-long showers contribute to dryness by leeching more of our skin’s natural oils. Keep yours warm and short to help your skin out

In the living room

• Keep out cool, dry air by use a door snake and sealing windows. Try to maintain a consistent temperature by not turning on and off the heating
• Keep a symptom diary to notice when air fresheners, pollen and other potential irritants or allergens trigger your eczema, and limit your exposure to them

In the kitchen

• A well-nourished body is better able to defend itself. Choose heartening meals full of healthy proteins and fresh, whole fruits and vegetables and aim to eat at least one hot meal a day
• Use milder dishwashing detergents and wear cotton-lined rubber gloves to protect your skin when washing by hand.

In your car and at work

• Stash tubes of moisturiser, lip balm, and sunscreen in your car and desk drawer – and anywhere else you spend a lot of time
• Or if you always carry a particular handbag or backpack, put together a "winter skin kit" in a single makeup bag to keep with you wherever you go