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With the arrival of autumn and the first temperature fluctuations, this is one of the most frequent questions at our pharmacy counter: why does the skin on the face and hands suddenly start to feel tight, red, or flaky?
As also detailed in the skin health guidelines from the Fondazione Umberto Veronesi, when temperatures drop, sebum production decreases and air humidity plummets. The result? The skin barrier weakens, allowing water in the epidermal layers to evaporate and making the skin hyper-reactive.
Furthermore, during seasonal changes, the body faces general stress that can weaken not only the skin but also the body as a whole: this is why it is essential to support your overall health by consulting our guide to the immune system supplements on promotion for autumn 2026.
In this practical guide, we look at how to repair dry skin in 3 key steps and which dermo-cosmetic treatments to choose to restore the hydrolipid film.
1. Cleanse without stripping the skin
The first mistake when cold weather arrives is continuing to use foaming or overly harsh cleansers. Dry or fragile skin requires cleansing by lipid affinity, as explained in the in-depth reports on cold-induced dermatitis by Humanitas Research Hospital.
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For sensitive or reactive skin: Choose a soothing cleansing milk or fluid that does not require harsh rinsing, such as La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo-Nettoyant, which removes impurities while leaving the skin hydrated and soft. Alternatively, you can explore the range of treatments for sensitive and hyper-reactive skin in the BioNike section.
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For those using pharmacological or anti-blemish treatments: If skin is dry but acne-prone, you need a specific rebalancing cleanser such as Effaclar H Iso-Biome Ultra-Soothing Cream, designed to soothe dehydration caused by harsh treatments.
2. Repair the skin barrier with a Cica Balm
When skin is chapped, wind-burned, or has small cracks, a normal moisturizer is not enough: you need a restorative, healing, and soothing cream (based on Zinc, Copper, Panthenol, and Madecassoside).
3. Nourish the body and very dry or atopic-prone areas
Autumn dryness does not just affect the face; it often manifests on legs, arms, and hands with itching and a "snake skin" sensation. For the prevention of seasonal dermatological disorders, the Ministry of Health always recommends the constant use of emollients free from irritating substances.
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In case of itching or atopic dermatitis: Lipikar Baume AP+M offers triple repair that immediately soothes itching and rebalances the skin microbiome for up to 72 hours. For formulations rich in essential ceramides, also check out the moisturizing products from the CeraVe range.
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For daily hydration for the whole family: Rich solutions in jars or dispensers such as Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream (450g) or emollient treatments specific for flaky skin conditions such as Dexeryl Emollient Cream.
❓ FAQ: Most frequently asked questions about Dry Skin in Autumn
How do I know if my skin barrier is damaged?
If you experience stinging upon applying normal cosmetics, widespread redness, skin tightness, or visible flaking, your epidermal barrier has lost its protective lipids. In this phase, it is necessary to pause harsh exfoliants and apply soothing balms rich in panthenol and ceramides.
What is the difference between dehydrated skin and dry skin?
Dehydrated skin is a temporary state of water deficiency (it can even be oily but dehydrated); dry skin is a skin type lacking lipids and sebum. In autumn, a combined intake of water (hyaluronic acid) and protective fats (shea butter, ceramides) is needed.
Do I need to wear sunscreen even if it's cold?
Yes. UVA rays penetrate even with cloudy skies and accelerate skin dehydration. If you are using restorative treatments on red or scarred skin, always opt for soothing balms with sun protection such as Cicaplast Baume B5+ SPF 50 or Cicalfate+ SPF 50.
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Order your restorative routine at farmacietorino.com to receive it at your home with fast shipping throughout Europe. Same-day delivery in Turin, or come visit us in person at Corso De Gasperi 69 (Turin Crocetta).
Have a question about which cream is best for your skin type? Write to us directly on WhatsApp for a personalized consultation with our pharmacists!
