Why Your Skin Gets Drier in December — and How Summit Dermatology Can Help
If your skin feels tight, flaky, or irritated in December, you’re not imagining it — winter is one of the harshest seasons for your skin barrier. Between cold outdoor temperatures, indoor heating, and low humidity, moisture evaporates from your skin quickly, leaving it dry, sensitive, and prone to irritation.
At Summit Dermatology in Medford, Oregon, we help patients every winter restore their skin’s hydration, strengthen their moisture barrier, and treat the conditions that flare up during cold weather. Understanding why your skin gets drier in December is the first step toward healthier, more comfortable skin all season long.
Why December Is So Tough on Your Skin
1. Cold Air Strips Away Hydration
Cold outdoor temperatures hold less moisture, causing the air to draw hydration from your skin. This can lead to dryness, rough texture, and increased sensitivity — especially on the face and hands.
2. Indoor Heating Makes It Worse
Heaters and fireplaces reduce indoor humidity levels, which accelerates moisture loss and leaves the skin dehydrated. This can even worsen eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
3. Lower Oil Production
Your skin naturally produces less oil in winter. While this may seem like a good thing, your skin’s natural oil barrier is essential for locking in moisture and protecting against irritation.
4. Hot Showers and Long Baths
They feel amazing on cold mornings — but hot water strips your skin barrier and can lead to dryness, flaking, and tightness.
How Summit Dermatology Can Help Restore Your Winter Skin
At Summit Dermatology, we offer targeted solutions to restore hydration, repair the skin barrier, and treat winter-related skin concerns.
Professional Treatments
HydraFacials for deep hydration and improved glow
Gentle Chemical Peels to remove rough, flaky skin
Microneedling for skin barrier repair and collagen stimulation
Laser treatments for redness, irritation, and winter flare-ups
Medical-Grade Skincare
Our dermatology providers in Medford can recommend highly effective products that hydrate deeply, protect your skin barrier, and prevent winter dryness from returning.
Specialized Care for Skin Conditions
December often triggers eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis flare-ups. We provide customized treatment plans to soothe and manage these conditions with long-lasting relief.
Common December Skin Concerns We Treat
Dryness, flaking, and tightness
Dull or uneven complexion
Cracked hands and lips
Eczema and psoriasis flare-ups
Winter-induced irritation or redness
Sensitive, reactive skin
FAQs:
Q: Why does my skin feel tight after coming inside from the cold?
Cold air removes surface moisture, and going indoors to dry heat causes even more water loss — creating an immediate tight, uncomfortable feeling.
Q: What is the best moisturizer for December dryness?
Look for products containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or squalane. Our dermatology team can recommend medical-grade formulas that penetrate deeper and last longer.
Q: Can I exfoliate dry winter skin?
Yes — but gently. Over-exfoliating can damage your barrier. Light exfoliation paired with hydration works best.
Q: When should I see a dermatologist for dry skin?
If dryness becomes painful, persistent, or begins cracking, itching, or causing rashes, it’s time for a professional evaluation.
Q: Are winter facials or treatments safe for dry skin?
Absolutely. Many winter-friendly treatments (like HydraFacials or gentle peels) can actually improve dryness and restore your glow.
Restore Your Skin’s Health This December
Dry winter skin doesn’t have to be your new normal. With expert guidance, personalized treatment, and the right skincare routine, you can keep your complexion hydrated, smooth, and comfortable all season long.
✨ Schedule your winter skincare appointment today at Summit Dermatology in Medford, Oregon and get your skin back to feeling its best
📞 Call Summit Dermatology in Medford, Oregon or book online to reserve your winter appointment.
