'Autumn face' explained as doctor issues advice for anyone affected
With icy weather coming around quickly, a stern warning has been issued about a seasonal skin condition referred to by dermatologists as 'Autumn face'.
According to industry experts, this colder time of year sees more and more patients making appointments with their GP to complain about this seasonal phenomenon, which can prove rather painful.
They claim skin on their faces feels tighter, drier, and altogether much more irritated. It often stings and itches, and as such, appears red and inflamed after being touched.
Therefore, ahead of temperatures in the UK seriously dropping over the coming weeks, Dr Derrick Phillips - a consultant dermatologist, also employed as a spokesperson for The British Skin Foundation - issued advice about the importance of keeping 'Autumn face' at bay.
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For reference, this phenomenon is the broader name for a collection of skin conditions that could include or combine the likes of dermatitis, eczema and rosacea.
Explaining why 'Autumn face' only seems to rear its ugly head ahead of the festive period, as well as for some time afterwards, Dr Phillips told the Daily Mail this week that it's all about the harm being inflicted on the epidermis.
This, as a reminder, is a watertight seal protecting the skin's most exterior layers.
"The purpose of the skin barrier is to protect the internal environment," he explained. "Keeping viruses, bacteria and pollutants out, while locking moisture in. When that barrier is damaged, water leaks out and irritants get in, leaving skin dry, red and inflamed."
It isn't just the brisk winter winds that have been known to trigger 'Autumn face', but the skin's reaction to central heating in contrast.
You might feel cold as a result of the time of year, but Dr Phillips insists it's vital not to 'sit too close to the radiator' in a bid to warm up.
"It can be surprisingly bad for your skin, as it strips away moisture," he added of this habit.
Such is also said to be the case with long, hot showers at this time of year, which can reportedly 'remove the protective oils from the skin's surface', making it 'more red, tight and sensitive'.
To tackle dryness in the face, the dermatologist went on to recommend investing in a humidifier in a bid to add some vital moisture back into the air, as means of 'adding hydration back into your skin'.
He also advised people to consider cutting harsh cleansers out of their skincare routines during the winter months, which he says can only worsen red rashes and soreness.
Dr Phillips added that over-exfoliating, sunburn, as well as the use of active ingredients - for example, retinols or acids - can also be guilty to stripping the vital moisture - the oils and fatty acids, which he describes as 'mortar' - from the epidermis.
"When that mortar starts to crumble, everything becomes unstable—water escapes, and irritants seep in," he continued.
"That's when skin starts to feel rough, sting after washing, or flush easily when you apply products."
Asked what sufferers of 'Autumn face' should do to combat the earliest signs of the condition, Dr Phillips advises first rationalising your skincare routine.
"Strip it back to the basics," he explained. "A gentle cleanser, a nourishing moisturiser, and a good sunscreen.
"Once you're using hydrating, non-irritating products, the skin barrier can usually repair within six to eight weeks."
If the flaking, redness or sensitivity continues, the dermatologist suggested booking a consultation with your GP, with prescription creams possibly being necessary, adding: "Topical steroids or antibiotics can help when there's significant damage."
Rhianna Benson