Windburn is a skin condition that occurs when the skin is exposed to strong winds, typically in cold, dry climates. It is characterized by redness, irritation, and sometimes even peeling or chapping of the skin. Although windburn will typically resolve without treatment within a few days, it can cause discomfort. The following are tips that may help alleviate pain and irritation and even speed up the healing process.
(1) Restore moisture to your skin. Use a natural moisturizer for dry skin that is free of harsh chemicals or fragrances to help soothe and hydrate windburned skin.
(2) Avoid potential irritants. Avoid using skincare that contains alcohol, fragrance, or other harsh ingredients, as these can further irritate windburned skin. Instead, opt for gentle and natural skin care products or sensitive skin care products.
(3) Try anti-inflammatory products. Consider using skincare products with anti-inflammatory ingredients like chamomile or calendula to help calm the redness and irritation.
(4) Protect the skin from further exposure. If you need to go back out into windy conditions, protect your skin by covering it with a scarf or a hat, and use sunscreen to shield your skin from UV rays.
(5) Avoid scratching. Just like with other forms of skin irritation, avoid scratching windburned skin, as this can worsen the condition and potentially lead to infection.
(6) Use a humidifier. To keep your skin hydrated in dry indoor environments, consider placing a humidifier in your home to add moisture back into the air.
