Itchy skin in winter: what causes the tight, pulling sensations?

In winter, the skin is exposed to environmental conditions that disrupt its equilibrium. Cold temperatures and reduced ambient humidity lead to a decrease in the stratum corneum’s water content, impairing the barrier function of the skin. This failure results in increased transepidermal water loss, a drier skin and a reduced capacity to defend against external aggressors. The resulting skin dryness is one of the primary triggers for tightness and itching sensations, particularly in individuals with naturally dry skin or an atopic tendency.

These skin barrier alterations were documented by a study comparing the stratum corneum on the legs of eight older adults between summer and winter. The results show that in winter, the stratum corneum exhibits a looser structure and a significantly reduced barrier function. This weakening is accompanied by a increase in transepidermal water loss in winter, reflecting increased skin permeability. A more permeable stratum corneum allows chemical irritants to penetrate more readily, which contributes to the onset of itching sensations.

Moreover, cold does not act solely on the skin’s physical barrier but also on its biological and immune mechanisms. Low temperatures promote the release of proinflammatory cytokines and an increase in the number of mast cells in the skin. These cells, involved in inflammatory and allergic reactions, release mediators that can stimulate cutaneous nerve endings, thereby intensifying the sensation of itch. This skin hypersensitivity explains why winter can exacerbate certain pruritic dermatoses, such as atopic dermatitis.

Finally, frequent temperature fluctuations between the cold outdoors and heated indoor environments activate specific sensory receptors located in the skin, notably the TRP channels (Transient Receptor Potential). These receptors play a key role in the perception of cold, pain, and itch. Their excessive activation contributes to skin inflammation and to the transmission of the itch signal via the nerve fibers. The close interaction between the cutaneous nervous system and the immune system thus amplifies the sensations of scratching observed in winter. The study cited above also highlights this increase in skin reactivity during winter. Burn tests show an earlier, more intense, and more sustained response compared with summer, even in subjects who exhibited no sensitivity during the warm season.

Thus, in winter, the combination of impaired barrier function, increased water loss, neurosensory hypersensitivity, and heightened activation of inflammatory mechanisms creates conditions conducive to cutaneous tightness and itching.

When temperatures drop, the skin is subjected to significant stress, and you may need to adjust your skincare routine to prevent tightness and itching.

• Prioritize gentle cleansers : We recommend choosing soap-free formulations to avoid further compromising the lipids of the stratum corneum, which have already been weakened by cold. The dermatological cleansing bars, free of soap and rich in plant oils and butters, are, for example, useful allies in winter.

• Strengthen skin hydration and nourishment : Daily application of skincare formulations rich in humectants, such as glycerin, and nourishing actives, like ceramides, helps limit insensible water loss and restore the cohesion of the skin barrier.

• Avoid excessively hot water : Very hot showers and baths promote the removal of lipids from the stratum corneum, which exacerbates skin dryness and increases sensations of tightness and pruritus.

• Protect the skin from cold and wind : Scarves, hats, and gloves are essential in winter! They cover the most exposed and vulnerable areas, such as the face and hands, protecting them from the surrounding cold and wind.

• Maintain sufficient indoor humidity : Indoor heating dries the air, which exacerbates skin dryness. Using a humidifier or placing a bowl of water near radiators can help maintain air that is more comfortable for the skin.

Find here additional scientifically backed advice for caring for your skin in winter.

• KLIGMAN A. M. & al. Xerotic skin of the elderly: A summer versus winter comparison based on biophysical measurements. Exogenous Dermatology (2003).

• THYSSEN J. P. & al. The effect of environmental humidity and temperature on skin barrier function and dermatitis. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (2015).

• KWATRA S. G. & al. Itch: Pathogenesis and treatment. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2021).

• KIM B. E. & al. The impact of temperature on the skin barrier and atopic dermatitis. Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (2023).