Mumbai, Feb 16: As temperatures drop, parents across the country notice a familiar concern dry, flaky, and irritated skin in children. Winter weather, combined with low humidity and indoor heating, can significantly weaken a child’s delicate skin barrier, making it more prone to dryness, itching, and sensitivity.

Children’s skin is naturally thinner and more sensitive than adults’, which means it reacts more quickly to environmental changes. During winter, this often results in rough patches, redness, cracked skin, and even eczema flare-ups. According to Prasanna Vasanadu, Parent Educator and Founder of Tikitoro, understanding why skin dries out in winter is the first step toward keeping it healthy and comfortable.

Signs Your Child’s Skin Barrier Needs Extra Care

Parents should watch for early indicators that the skin barrier is compromised, including:

  • Dry, rough, or scaly patches
  • Redness or irritation, especially on cheeks and around the mouth
  • Persistent itching, particularly at night
  • Cracks on hands or feet
  • Frequent flare-ups of eczema or rashes

How to Strengthen Your Child’s Skin Barrier in Winter

1. Apply Moisturiser Immediately After Bathing

Moisturising within three minutes of a bath—while the skin is still slightly damp—helps lock in hydration and reinforce the skin barrier. During winter, richer creams and lotions are preferable to lightweight gels for longer-lasting moisture.

2. Choose Kid-Friendly, Gentle Products

Avoid soaps and body washes containing harsh chemicals, alcohol, or strong fragrances, as they strip natural oils from the skin. Opt for mild, soap-free cleansers formulated specifically for children.

3. Limit Long, Hot Baths

While hot baths may feel comforting in cold weather, prolonged exposure can weaken the skin’s protective layer. Keep bath time between five to ten minutes and use lukewarm water instead.

4. Reapply Moisturiser Regularly

In winter, a single application may not be enough. Apply moisturiser at least twice daily—after bathing and before bedtime—and reapply to especially dry areas like hands and cheeks as needed.

5. Don’t Skip Sunscreen

Cold weather can dry exposed skin even faster, particularly on the face and lips. UV rays remain active during winter, making daily sun protection essential before stepping outdoors.

Winter skincare goes beyond keeping children warm—it requires conscious efforts to protect and nourish their skin. A consistent, gentle routine can help maintain a healthy skin barrier, ensuring children stay comfortable and happy throughout the colder months.

By prioritising hydration and barrier care, parents can help their children enjoy winter with soft, healthy, and well-protected skin.