Winter Skin SOS: How Cold & Flu Season Wreaks Havoc on Your Skin (And What You Can Do About It)
- Mikaela Giaquinta
- Jun 8
- 3 min read
Published in La Pelle Skin Health Hub
As we're settling into the cooler months here in Melbourne, I've been getting so many questions from our La Pelle family about why their skin seems to go completely haywire during cold and flu season. Sound familiar?
You're not imagining it - and you're definitely not alone! Recent 2025 research has actually proven what we've been seeing in clinic for years: cold weather and seasonal illness create the perfect storm for skin chaos.
Why Your Skin Hates Winter (It's Science, Not You!)
Here's what's really happening to your skin when the temperature drops and the sniffles start:
Your Skin Barrier Takes a Hit
Think of your skin barrier like your home's insulation. When it's working properly, it keeps the good stuff in (moisture, nutrients) and the bad stuff out (bacteria, irritants). But cold weather literally damages this protective layer, making your skin:
Lose moisture faster than you can say "dry skin"
Become more sensitive to everything
Struggle to heal properly
Inflammation Goes Into Overdrive
Cold temperatures trigger your skin's stress response, causing inflammation that can:
Worsen existing eczema or dermatitis
Trigger unexpected breakouts
Make your skin feel tight and uncomfortable
Your Immune System Gets Confused
When you're fighting off a cold or flu, your body's resources are diverted away from maintaining healthy skin. This is why you might notice:
Slower healing of blemishes
Increased sensitivity to your usual products
New skin issues popping up out of nowhere
The Real Talk: What We're Seeing
At La Pelle, we've noticed some clear patterns during winter months:
The "Winter Skin Spiral": Clients come in frustrated because their usually well-behaved skin has suddenly become unpredictable. They're often over-treating, thinking they need to "fix" their skin with harsh products - but this actually makes things worse!
The "Sick Day Skin": After a bout of cold or flu, many clients experience delayed skin reactions - sometimes weeks later. This isn't coincidence; it's your skin finally showing the stress your body went through.
Your Winter Skin Game Plan (Evidence-Based & Mum-Approved!)
Before the Season Hits: Prevention Mode
1. Strengthen Your Skin Barrier
Switch to our gentle, pregnancy-safe cleanser (even if you're not pregnant - it's just that gentle!)
Layer on barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid
Don't skip sunscreen - winter UV still damages already-stressed skin
2. Create a Skin-Happy Home Environment
Invest in a humidifier for your bedroom (your skin will thank you!)
Turn down the heating a notch - overheated homes are skin barrier killers
Switch to fragrance-free laundry products
During Illness: Damage Control
When You're Under the Weather:
Simplify your routine - now's not the time for active ingredients
Use Balm more frequently, especially after blowing your nose
Stay hydrated (yes, even when you don't feel like it!)
For the Kids:
Keep their skincare super simple during illness
Use our gentle barrier balm around their nose area
Resist the urge to "treat" viral rashes - let their body do its thing
Recovery Mode: Rebuilding Your Skin
Post-Illness Skin Rehab:
Gradually reintroduce your usual products
Focus on barrier repair ingredients
Use Nurture Me LED treatment to support healing (our clients love this!)
When to Call in the Professionals
As much as we love empowering you with knowledge, sometimes you need experienced eyes on your skin. Book a consultation if you notice:
Skin changes that persist weeks after illness
New or worsening chronic conditions
Signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus)
The La Pelle Difference: Supporting You Through Every Season
This is exactly why we developed our skincare line with pregnancy-safe, gentle-yet-effective formulations. Whether you're battling morning sickness, chasing toddlers, or just trying to keep your skin happy through Melbourne's unpredictable weather, we've got you covered.
Our Winter Skin Heroes:
Gentle Cleanser: Won't strip your already-compromised barrier
Barrier Balm: Your skin's best friend during harsh weather
LED Nurture Me Device: At-home support for stressed skin
Your Skin, Your Journey
Remember, your skin is unique, and what works for your friend might not work for you. That's why you should always start with a thorough consultation to understand YOUR skin's specific needs.
Winter skin struggles are real, but they're also temporary and totally manageable with the right approach. Be patient with your skin, be gentle with yourself, and remember that we're here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to give your skin the winter support it deserves? Book your consultation with one of our clinic partners. Check out who they are below!
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider, dermal clinician or dermatologist before changing your skincare routine, especially if you have existing skin conditions, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Individual results may vary. If you experience severe skin reactions or have concerns about your skin health, seek professional medical advice promptly.
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