When the cold weather sets in, the skin may become drier due to the use of heaters and the amount of water present in the epidermis or most superficial layer of the skin may be altered depending on the humidity in the environment. Healthy skin is generally not significantly altered by changes in environmental humidity. However, when it comes to people with a tendency to xerosis or dry skin, the lack of environmental humidity can aggravate the problem. For this reason, in regions with low humidity or in winter, due to the use of indoor heating, the dry environment can alter the water balance of the skin of predisposed persons.
If certain precautions and care are not taken, excessive heat, dryness or cold can alter the quality of the skin. This is due to the alteration in the water and fat composition of the most superficial layer of the skin: the epidermis. If this is altered, the skin is less protected against minor erosions or infections, and may therefore be more sensitive until the composition of the epidermis is restored.
On the other hand, environmental dryness does not clog pores or influence sebaceous secretion. Sebaceous secretion is mainly regulated by the individual’s hormones as well as by his or her genetic tendency.