A lack of moisture in the air during winter months may contribute to dry skin and potentially cause skin irritation, itching, or swelling. Treatment for winter rashes involves thick moisturizers.

As temperatures drop, so does the moisture content in your skin. This can lead to a rash.

A winter rash is an area of irritated skin most often caused by dry skin. Even if you have healthy skin for the rest of the year, you may develop a winter rash during cold seasons. The condition is common and often recurs year after year. Most people who live in cold climates have experienced it at least once.

Without treatment and lifestyle changes, your rash may last throughout winter. But, certain practices can help keep your skin healthy and moisturized year-round.

A rash is an area of skin irritation. Its appearance may vary depending on your skin tone and symptoms.

A winter rash may include any of the following symptoms:

The rash may affect a single area of your body, often your legs, arms, or hands, or it may be widespread.

Your skin’s outer layer contains a barrier of natural oils and dead skin cells that hold water inside. This helps keep your skin soft, moisturized, and smooth.

Cold temperatures and dryness can affect the condition of your skin.

Cold air, low humidity, and high winds outdoors strip your skin of much-needed moisture. Turning up the heat and taking hot showers indoors do the same. These harsh conditions cause your skin to lose its natural oils, allowing moisture to escape. This can potentially lead to a rash.

Other possible causes of a winter rash include:

Sunburns can also lead to a winter rash. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can be potent, even in winter.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, snow reflects up to 80% of UV light. UV rays are also more intense at higher altitudes. This is important to remember if you enjoy snowboarding, skiing, or other alpine sports.

Anyone can get a winter rash, but some people are more prone than others. You’re more likely to develop a winter rash if you have a history of:

Spending a lot of time outdoors with exposed skin may also raise your risk of developing a winter rash.

Your doctor can often diagnose a winter rash during a physical exam. They’ll review your symptoms and medical history to help determine the cause and prescribe treatment.

Most treatments for a winter rash are inexpensive and don’t require a prescription. For example:

  • Moisturizers are often the first defense against dry skin because they help lock moisture into your skin. Apply moisturizer several times a day, especially after bathing and handwashing. A heavier emollient moisturizer, such as a cream or ointment, may keep your skin moisturized longer.
  • Petroleum jelly also acts as a barrier to help seal moisture into your skin. If you don’t like the idea of using petroleum products, consider trying petroleum substitutes, such as Waxelene or Un-Petroleum, which also prevent moisture loss.
  • Natural virgin oils, such as virgin coconut oil, may help soothe your irritated skin and replenish moisture. Apply to your skin as needed in areas that are not prone to acne. Be sure to test on a small area of skin for at 24 hours before applying.
  • Oatmeal soap and baths may also help soothe your skin. Purchase soap made with oatmeal, or add finely ground oats to a warm bath, and soak in it for about 10 minutes.
  • Topical hydrocortisone creams, which are available with or without a prescription, may help reduce itching and inflammation. Follow the manufacturer’s directions or use as directed by your doctor.

If applying a new product for the first time, consider performing a patch test to make sure it doesn’t cause a skin reaction. Apply the product to a small area of skin and leave it for 24 hours. If you have any skin reaction, discontinue use.

Avoid scratching your skin, which can cause cracking and bleeding and increase your risk of infection.

Sometimes, a rash may need medical attention. Talk with a doctor immediately if your rash:

  • occurs after taking a new medication
  • doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatment
  • is bleeding
  • occurs suddenly and is widespread
  • occurs with other concerning symptoms, such as fever
  • starts in one location and spreads

The best way to prevent a winter rash is to avoid cold temperatures and dry air. You may also be able to reduce the risk of a rash during the cooler months by:

  • using a humidifier to add moisture to the air around you
  • changing your bathing routine by bathing less often and avoiding hot water
  • using mild, fragrance-free soaps or cleansers made from glycerin, goat milk, shea butter, or olive oil
  • using fragrance-free laundry detergent
  • using hydrating, emollient moisturizers
  • wearing clothes made from breathable fibers, such as cotton and hemp, to help reduce irritation and overheating
  • wearing gloves every time you go outside in cold weather
  • wearing protective gloves when you wash dishes or clean with chemical products
  • preventing sunburn by wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin
  • limiting the time you spend in front of fireplaces, as they reduce humidity and expose your skin to intense heat

What does winter dermatitis look like?

Winter dermatitis or a winter rash can look like irritated skin. You may also have raised bumps, swelling, and redness or flushing.

Why do I get rashes when it’s cold?

Cold air, low humidity, and high winds outdoors, as well as heat indoors, can reduce moisture in your skin, leading to dry, cracking skin and rashes.

Why am I getting itchy bumps in winter?

Itchy skin bumps that appear during the winter can occur due to dry skin or a rash. Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can increase the risk.

Taking preventive steps and applying an emollient moisturizer can help reduce the risk of a winter rash.

Other rashes are serious and require medical treatment. Contact your doctor if your rash doesn’t improve despite home treatment or if you have other concerns.