"Don't bathe frequently"... If your skin is dry and you keep scratching, how to prevent dermatitis?

The seasonal transition has begun, with larger temperature differences and drier air. During this period, rapid changes in temperature and humidity can significantly affect skin health. In particular, it can deplete moisture from the skin, leading to itching.

 

Seasonal skin itching occurs due to common stimuli in daily life such as mild contact or stress, and in severe cases, it can disrupt nighttime sleep and cause significant discomfort. Additionally, neglecting the condition can lead to dermatitis or secondary infections, so caution is necessary.

 

Professor Kim Dae-hyun of Korea University Anam Hospital's Department of Dermatology said, "Advanced skin itching not only becomes more difficult to treat but can also develop into dermatitis that takes a long time to recover from," emphasizing the need for more effective early intervention.

 

Skin itching is primarily caused by a sudden decrease in humidity leading to skin dehydration. To alleviate the symptoms, it is recommended to use moisturizers to maintain skin hydration and support the skin's natural functions.

 

If it has progressed to dermatitis, it can be treated with appropriate prescriptions such as oral antihistamines and topical steroids under the care of a specialist.

 

As everyday preventive measures, it is recommended to maintain proper indoor humidity, avoid taking long baths with hot water, and refrain from scrubbing the skin. It is also advisable to apply moisturizer generously immediately after showering and to avoid wearing tight clothing or metal jewelry when going out. Additionally, reducing stress can have a positive impact on skin health.

 

Most importantly, when itching occurs, it is important not to scratch vigorously. If the itching is severe, apply an ice pack to the itchy area or gently rub the itchy spot with the palm of your hand.

 

Professor Kim advised, "It is better to choose general products over moisturizers containing colors or fragrances that may irritate the skin. Simply applying moisturizer frequently may not resolve the issue and could worsen it, so it is advisable to seek treatment from a dermatologist to find the most suitable therapy for your skin."

 

The following are eight tips proposed by the National Health Insurance Service to prevent skin dryness.

 

Drink at least 8 cups of water a day and avoid caffeinated beverages.

 

The indoor temperature is maintained between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius.

 

Use a humidifier indoors to maintain the proper humidity level.

 

Take a shower with lukewarm water lightly and do not scrub off the dirt.

 

Take baths as briefly as possible and do not do them frequently.

 

Apply moisturizing cream to areas that itch immediately after bathing.

 

Use neutral or mildly acidic soap for bathing products.

 

Wear underwear made of soft cotton.

 

Reporter Im Jong-eon (eoni@kormedi.com)

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Taking frequent showers during seasonal changes is also not good.

It seems.

Because I am impatient and cannot stay calm, when my skin itches, I scratch it with all my might using my nails, causing wounds.

After coming out, my whole body is covered in wounds, but I am diligently applying moisturizer.

I should brush my teeth and take a shower as briefly as possible.