Dealing With Windburn? Here’s How to Heal It

Ever come back from a day outside feeling like your skin is tight, red, or burning even though it wasn’t particularly sunny? You might be dealing with windburn, a common skin condition that can strike in both cold and warm weather.

Though it’s often mistaken for sunburn, windburn is caused when fast-moving air strips moisture and protective oils from the top layers of your skin, leaving it dry, sensitive, and more vulnerable to damage.

Here’s how to identify, treat, and prevent windburn so your skin stays calm and comfortable no matter the weather.

What Are the Symptoms of Windburn?

Windburn can affect any exposed area of the body, and it often develops after prolonged outdoor exposure, especially in dry, blustery conditions. Common signs include:

• Redness or discoloration (may appear purple on darker skin tones)

• Burning, itching, or stinging sensations

• Tight, dry skin

• Cracking or peeling (in more severe cases)

• Discomfort when applying skincare or water

These symptoms often appear on the face but can also show up on hands, neck, or any other uncovered skin.

Why Does Windburn Happen?

Unlike sunburn, which is caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, windburn is primarily due to moisture loss. Wind exposure pulls essential oils and water from the skin, and in harsher conditions, it can even damage the outermost skin barrier.

Complicating matters, the top layers of your skin act as a buffer against UV rays. When those layers are compromised by wind, your risk of sunburn increases even on cloudy days. This combination of environmental damage can lead to longer-lasting irritation.

How to Treat Windburn at Home

The key to healing windburn is restoring moisture and reducing inflammation. Here are dermatologist-recommended steps to treat windburn safely:

• Use aloe vera gel: Aloe is naturally soothing and anti-inflammatory. Look for pure aloe vera (or a product without alcohol or fragrance) and apply it generously to affected areas.

• Moisturize often: Choose a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer or ointment with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin to rebuild your skin barrier.

• Apply cold compresses: A clean, damp cloth with cold water can reduce burning and calm inflammation. Avoid ice, which can cause more damage to compromised skin.

• Skip hot showers: Use lukewarm water and gentle cleansers. Avoid exfoliating, retinoids, or any harsh ingredients until your skin heals.

How to Prevent Windburn

Just like you wouldn’t go out in the sun without SPF, you shouldn’t underestimate the wind either. Try these preventative tips:

• Layer up: Wear hats, scarves, sunglasses, and gloves to protect vulnerable areas.

• Use a barrier moisturizer: Before heading outside, apply a thick moisturizing cream to exposed skin.

• Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen: Even in winter or on overcast days, UV rays can penetrate clouds and wind can increase your susceptibility to them. Use SPF 30 or higher and reapply every 2 hours.

• Limit exposure on windy days: Stay indoors during extreme weather, or take breaks to warm up and hydrate your skin.

Is It Windburn or Sunburn?

It can be tricky to tell the difference especially since they often occur together. Here’s a quick comparison:

Ultimately, it doesn’t matter which is which treatment and prevention strategies are often the same. Focus on hydrating, protecting, and calming the skin.

When to See a Doctor

If your windburned skin shows signs of infection (like pus, increased pain, or swelling), or if it's not improving after a few days of care, it's a good idea to consult a healthcare provider. Also, people with chronic skin conditions like eczema may be more sensitive and require additional care.

Takeaway

Windburn can sneak up on even the most skin-conscious among us, especially during outdoor workouts, ski trips, or windy beach days. By moisturizing regularly, protecting your skin, and reapplying sunscreen, you can help keep your skin barrier strong and avoid the sting of the elements.

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