Take steps to maintain healthy skin this winter

Julian Trevino is an adult and pediatric dermatologist with Wright State Physicians Dermatology and professor and chair of the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine Department of Dermatology.

As winter approaches, dry skin can become an irritating problem. The effects of dry skin — flaking, itching, cracking and bleeding — can be painful. During National Healthy Skin Month in November, Wright State Physicians Dermatology encourages people to take steps to protect their skin.

“Your skin is your body’s first line of defense against disease and infections,” said Julian Trevino, M.D., an adult and pediatric dermatologist with Wright State Physicians Dermatology and professor and chair of the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine Department of Dermatology. “Dry skin can flake, itch, crack and bleed. During the winter months, keep baths and showers short and use warm water, not hot water.”

Trevino also recommends the following tips to protect your skin.

• Don’t use deodorant soaps and alcohol-based toners and products that contain fragrance. These products can irritate dry, sensitive skin.
• Apply moisturizer, preferably ointments and creams, after getting out of the bath or shower.
• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.
• Wear 100 percent cotton soft fabrics, or at least layer with cotton fabrics.
• Continue to wash your hands thoroughly to remove harmful bacteria and viruses. Hand sanitizers are an alternative.
• Apply hand cream after you wash your hands to help moisturize them.

“If your dry skin does not clear up after following these tips, you should see a dermatologist,” Trevino said. “Your skin works nonstop to protect your body. So it’s important to take care of it.”

To schedule an appointment with Trevino or another dermatologist at Wright State Physicians Dermatology, call 937-224-7546.