Temperatures drop, heaters blast and everything itches — telltale signs that winter is imminent, bringing with it dry, problem-prone skin. Take precautionary steps now to maintain soft, younger-looking skin that weathers the harshness of the season.

Facials

Having a professional facial is not only relaxing and pampering, it is also effective in preparing the skin for the approaching colder, drier months. Many options are available to help hydrate and heal the skin, including vitamin facials and medicated treatments.

The Skin Enhancement Center at Moeller Dermatology tailors facials to each client’s needs. For example, the 75-minute Dermalogica Signature Facial is based on face-mapping analysis that includes deep cleansing, exfoliation, necessary extractions, masqueing, neck and shoulder massage and paraffin hand treatment. A treatment for the back — a Purifying Backcial — is also available, combining stress relief with a deep cleanse, exfoliation and masque.

“Winter is the ideal time to pamper yourself and your skin,” said Christopher A. Moeller, M.D. “The holiday season is a terrific time to give yourself and your loved ones the gift of healthy skin.”

Climate-appropriate skin care

While cleansing gels and light formulas are ideal for summertime, skin may need more TLC in the colder winter weather. Switching to thicker cleansers and creams will help protect the skin from the damaging effects of wind and cold, dry temperatures. Oil-based products can offer relief for dry, cracked skin, but only for those with skin that is not prone to acne flare-ups.

With the furnace running and the windows closed, the air inside can become exceptionally dry in the winter. A humidifier effectively replaces moisture in the air. Invest in a whole-house humidifier or use a portable version in the bedroom.

Dress in layers. Sweating and overheating are common triggers of the scratch-itch cycle; wearing layers prevents overheating by allowing clothing to be removed as needed. Be sure to wear loose-fitting cotton fabrics next to the skin.

Pay special attention to winter hands. All that extra hand washing to protect against winter viruses strips the hands of essential oils, leaving them rough and cracked. Try to moisturize with a rich cream after each washing, and don’t forget to wear gloves in the harsh weather.

“The most common cause of itching is dry skin, which increases in the winter,” said Dr. Moeller. “Routine moisturizing is the key to relieving this prevalent seasonal irritation.”

Tanning beds

Also called sunbeds, tanning beds and their standing-version cousins (tanning booths) emit ultraviolet radiation in order to produce a tan. They rose in popularity in the early 1980s, but research has brought several risks to light, diminishing their prevalence.

The beds typically emit 95 percent UVA and 5 percent UVB rays; evidence shows that the three main types of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma) are caused by sun exposure. Women who tanned at least once a month were 55 percent more likely to develop melanoma than those who didn't artificially suntan. Using a sunbed without protective goggles may also lead to a condition known as arc eye, producing a sensation akin to having sand in the eye. In addition, the idea that tanning improves acne is misguided. Getting a tan from any UV ray source, whether the sun or tanning beds, increases the risk of developing dry, irritated or burned skin.

A better option for achieving tanned skin in the winter months is to use topical tanning lotions or bronzers. For professional results, visit a spray-on tanning facility; a special booth or handheld airbrush technique provides the appearance of a tan but without the dangers associated with UV rays.

“Winter is the perfect time to pamper yourself and your skin”