Spring Skin Dry Out: What You Need to Know

What is Spring skin dry out?

"Spring skin dry-out" is another way of describing the transitions in our skin as the weather changes. As a dermatologist, I get this question often at this time of year. I have many patients coming in, feeling a need to adjust their skincare routines and habits to accommodate for some of the changes that they are seeing in their skin as the weather warms up. Teen skin may be especially susceptible to the environmental changes and their teen skincare routine should be adjusted accordingly.

What happens to our skin during the winter months?

In the winter months, our skin adapts to the cold, dry environment that surrounds us. The cold air outside is irritating and drying to our skin while heat within our homes and workplaces further dehydrates us. As our skin gets drier, we will notice more of the dead skin cells that are being shed on the surface and most of us feel a need to moisturize, often with thicker, more occlusive creams and lotions. Many of my patients add an oil-based serum to their regimens, providing that extra layer of moisturization and skin conditioning to help prevent transepidermal water loss.

As spring arrives, our external environment warms up and the air becomes more humid. Now our skin has to adjust again. We might notice that the richer creams that we were using in the winter months now feel too heavy. At this time of year, as we look for an ideal teen or tween face moisturizer, we are seeking lightweight, hydrating formulations that will nourish our skin without feeling heavy or occlusive.

How is inflammation linked to spring skin dry out?

Inflammation is at the root of the spring skin dry out; when our skin becomes inflamed, it tends to lose moisture and this leads to dehydration and sensitivity. There are several factors that contribute to inflammation in our skin during the spring:

• Seasonal Allergies: seasonal allergens are in full swing, with the most likely culprit being pollen. The grasses, trees, and flowers in bloom can cause irritation and sensitivity in our skin, leading to more inflammation; this in turn, dries out our skin.
• Heat: As the temperature warms up, we can see more blood flow and heat within our skin; individuals who are prone to rosacea might experience more flushing and redness in their skin during the spring and summer.
• Sun exposure: As we get outdoors more, our skin has more exposure to UV light, and this is a major cause of inflammation within our skin. It's important to wear sunscreen year-round, but especially so when we are outdoors in the spring, enjoying the beautiful weather. Choose a broad-spectrum, mineral sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher. Be sure to reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.

 How to prevent spring skin dry out

Prevention: Be in tune with your local environment and how your skin reacts to environmental allergens. Develop a daily routine of a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser, appropriate moisturizer (that works for your skin type) and sunscreen each day. Get plenty of sleep; sleep deprivation is an often overlooked factor that plays a big role in our skin health and inflammation within our skin and our bodies.

How to transition your skincare in the spring

Be aware of how your skincare is supporting your skin as the environment around you changes. There is no "one size fits all" when it comes to skincare. As a dermatologist, I am a big fan of Dr. Leslie Baumann's Skin Type Solutions program for helping you choose products that work for your skin.

Keep your skin BRIGHT and healthy this spring!

Written by Angela Casey MD

Double-board certified Dermatologist and Dermatologic Surgeon