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What Causes Dry Skin And Itchy Bumps On Skin During Weather Changes?
My skin has always been very dry, so when I began shaving years ago I figured that the itchy red bumps would form because of how dry my legs, armpits, etc were. However, I have begun to realize that when I am exposed to cold air or very warm temperatures, my skin-mostly my legs result in goosebumps (not only are my legs dry, theyre very sensitive as well) and the goosebumps itch until they turn into red bumps that I can t avoid itching-sometimes I ve itched them to the point of bleeding, especially at night. I have done everything I can think of, from using special electric razors made for sensitive, dry and razor bump problems to natural oils such as coconut oil, tea tree oil and much more. I exfoliate my legs to prevent dead skin (I ve heard goosebumps can hurt when the hair follicle tries to break through the layer of dead skin on legs). When exposed to ocean water, or like I said, changing temperatures is when slight itching or burning begins. I ve used products like Nair (hair removal cream) which results in a burning rash as well. I am desperate for help.
Thu, 3 Sep 2015
Hi there, thank you for using HCM.
Dry skin can be a result of reduced immunity, pre-existing hypersensitivity (asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema), hormonal imbalance, impaired sugar control, high urea in the blood, nutritional deficiencies and environmental factors. For instance, working with chemicals or using harsh skincare products (alkaline soaps, antibacterial soaps) can also impact the skin.
It sounds as though you also have temperature-dependent urticaria - meaning that changes in temperature can upset your skin and cause you to break out into itchy bumps. The itching can be intractable - this can be temporarily managed with anti-histamines. Soaking in a tub of oatmeal can bring immense relief to bumpy, irritated skin. Do keep your nails short and do not scratch as this may cause secondary infection. If you must scratch, have a towel or cloth between your nails and the itchy spot to reduce trauma.
Firstly, you need to stop using hair removal cream as this is not suitable for your skintype. Also, stop exfoliating as your are stripping your skin of its natural barriers. Next, please stop shaving - any form of shaving can worsen your condition. Allow your skin to heal 2 - 3 months) and consider hair epilation. Waxing is an option provided it does not aggravate your condition. Use soap free cleansers on your body and continue using the emollients like olive oil or coconut oil. Do not use tea tree oil for now. For better absorption of emollients, you could use shrink wrap on your skin after apllying the emollient.
Next, we need to heal you from within: Look at your dietary options: are you getting enough good fats (omega 3 and 6)? Vitamin E and high grade fish oil (need to be taken regularly for at least a month) are very good at boosting your skin health. Sufficient hydration and antioxidants are also important. Taking probiotics regularly will also boost the immunity of your skin as well as digestive tract. Consider adding natural anti-inflammatory foods to your diet like curcumin.
Consider your health:
1. Do you suffer from any other medical conditions?
2. Are you on any long term medications e.g. steroids that might be affecting the health of your skin?
3. What is your weight like? Being overweight can also impact the skin.
4. Are you an alergic individual? Is there anything in your immediate environment that might be causing you to itch?
I'd recommend you see your doctor and rule out metabolic problems (sugar control, high urea) or hormonal imbalances (underactive thyroid). Have a thorough health check to rule out any underlying disease process. Hope this helps and good luck.
Dry skin can be a result of reduced immunity, pre-existing hypersensitivity (asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema), hormonal imbalance, impaired sugar control, high urea in the blood, nutritional deficiencies and environmental factors. For instance, working with chemicals or using harsh skincare products (alkaline soaps, antibacterial soaps) can also impact the skin.
It sounds as though you also have temperature-dependent urticaria - meaning that changes in temperature can upset your skin and cause you to break out into itchy bumps. The itching can be intractable - this can be temporarily managed with anti-histamines. Soaking in a tub of oatmeal can bring immense relief to bumpy, irritated skin. Do keep your nails short and do not scratch as this may cause secondary infection. If you must scratch, have a towel or cloth between your nails and the itchy spot to reduce trauma.
Firstly, you need to stop using hair removal cream as this is not suitable for your skintype. Also, stop exfoliating as your are stripping your skin of its natural barriers. Next, please stop shaving - any form of shaving can worsen your condition. Allow your skin to heal 2 - 3 months) and consider hair epilation. Waxing is an option provided it does not aggravate your condition. Use soap free cleansers on your body and continue using the emollients like olive oil or coconut oil. Do not use tea tree oil for now. For better absorption of emollients, you could use shrink wrap on your skin after apllying the emollient.
Next, we need to heal you from within: Look at your dietary options: are you getting enough good fats (omega 3 and 6)? Vitamin E and high grade fish oil (need to be taken regularly for at least a month) are very good at boosting your skin health. Sufficient hydration and antioxidants are also important. Taking probiotics regularly will also boost the immunity of your skin as well as digestive tract. Consider adding natural anti-inflammatory foods to your diet like curcumin.
Consider your health:
1. Do you suffer from any other medical conditions?
2. Are you on any long term medications e.g. steroids that might be affecting the health of your skin?
3. What is your weight like? Being overweight can also impact the skin.
4. Are you an alergic individual? Is there anything in your immediate environment that might be causing you to itch?
I'd recommend you see your doctor and rule out metabolic problems (sugar control, high urea) or hormonal imbalances (underactive thyroid). Have a thorough health check to rule out any underlying disease process. Hope this helps and good luck.
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