Khaberni - During the winter, noticeable changes occur on the skin dubbed "Winter Ugliness" by social media users, which is a condition of dryness, dullness, and flaking resulting from the weakening of the natural skin barrier.
Dermatologist Dr. Rodina Ahmed explains that this phenomenon is linked to the convergence of multiple seasonal factors, where the decrease in air humidity combines with the cold outdoor weather and the dry air from indoor heating, depriving the skin of its essential moisture and weakening its ability to renew.
Dr. Ahmed points out that suffering from winter ailments like the flu adds an additional burden on the skin, as fever, inflammation, and lack of sleep reduce the production of natural oils and slow down the skin cell repair process.
To maintain the skin's radiance during this period, Dr. Rodina recommends adopting a simple preventive routine focused on deep moisturization using rich creams containing protective substances, while avoiding hot water and harsh soap during showering.
She also emphasizes the importance of the indoor environment, where it is preferable to use air humidifiers in closed rooms, alongside proper nutrition that supports skin health from the inside, through consuming water-rich foods such as cucumbers and watermelons, and those containing vitamin C found in citrus and peppers, and vitamin E available in nuts and wheat germ oil. Dr. Ahmed also remembers to recommend suitable dietary supplements, especially vitamin D, which naturally decreases in production during the winter months (the recommended doses are 600 international units daily for adults).
She concludes her advice by affirming that continuous care and prevention are the key to facing winter challenges and maintaining skin brightness even in the harshest conditions.
