"Winter Ugly".. How Cold Weather Affects Your Skin and How to Prevent It

Many people face noticeable changes in their skin during winter, referred to by social media users as "winter ugly," which is characterized by dryness, dullness, and flaking due to the weakening of the skin's natural barrier.

Causes of the Winter Ugly Phenomenon

Dermatologist Dr. Roudina Ahmed explains that this condition results from the interplay of several seasonal factors, most notably:
Low humidity in the air
Cold outdoor weather
Dry air caused by indoor heating
All these factors deprive the skin of its natural moisture and weaken its ability to regenerate and self-repair.
Additionally, winter illnesses such as influenza and fever negatively affect the skin, as they reduce the production of natural oils and slow down the process of skin cell repair, especially with lack of sleep and increased inflammation.

Tips for Skin Care in Winter

To maintain skin freshness and protect it from winter ugly, Dr. Roudina recommends following a preventive routine based on:
Deep hydration: Using creams rich in protective ingredients, and avoiding hot water and harsh soaps during bathing.
Improving the indoor environment: Using humidifiers in closed rooms to maintain skin moisture.
Proper nutrition: Eating water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon, vitamin C from citrus fruits and peppers, and vitamin E from nuts and wheat germ oil.
Dietary supplements: Especially vitamin D, which is naturally produced less in winter, while adhering to the recommended doses (600 international units daily for adults).

Dr. Roudina emphasizes that prevention and continuous care are essential to face winter challenges, noting that following these tips helps maintain skin radiance and health even in the coldest and driest conditions.