January 13, 2026

Written by Dev Admin

Why Skin Becomes Extremely Dry in Riyadh During Winter – Dermatologist Explains

Winter in Riyadh may feel comfortable compared to colder countries, but for the skin, it is one of the most challenging seasons of the year. Many patients experience sudden dryness, tightness, flaking, redness, or irritation—often despite using moisturizers consistently.

At Reveal Clinics, Dr. Haitham Al-Gzlan frequently treats winter-related skin dryness caused by environmental and lifestyle factors unique to Riyadh. Understanding why this happens is the first step toward effective treatment.

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Why Winter Affects Skin So Severely in Riyadh

1️⃣ Low Humidity Levels

Winter air in Riyadh is extremely dry. Low humidity accelerates transepidermal water loss (TEWL), causing moisture to escape from the skin faster than it can be replaced.

2️⃣ Indoor Heating & Air Conditioning

Prolonged exposure to indoor heating and air conditioning further dehydrates the skin, leading to:

weakened skin barrier
increased sensitivity
persistent tightness

3️⃣ Skin Barrier Dysfunction

The skin barrier protects against moisture loss and external irritants. In winter:

lipid production decreases
barrier proteins weaken
microscopic cracks develop

This allows moisture to escape even when moisturizers are applied.

4️⃣ Hot Showers & Over-Cleansing

Hot water and harsh cleansers strip natural oils, worsening dryness. Many patients unknowingly aggravate winter skin issues through excessive washing or unsuitable products.

5️⃣ Reduced Natural Oil Production

Cold weather slows sebaceous gland activity, resulting in:

rough texture
dull appearance
increased irritation

✅ Effective for severe or resistant acne

✅ Reduces oil production and prevents clogged pores

✅ Helps minimize acne scarring

✅ Long-term remission after treatment

✅ Improves skin clarity and confidence

Common Winter Skin Symptoms Seen in Riyadh Clinics

Patients commonly present with:

persistent dryness
flaky or scaly skin
redness and itching
worsening eczema or dermatitis
heightened product sensitivity

These symptoms indicate barrier damage, not just surface dehydration.

Why Moisturizers Alone Often Fail in Winter

According to Dr. Haitham:

“Winter dryness is often a barrier problem, not a product problem.”

When the barrier is compromised:

moisture escapes quickly
irritants penetrate more easily
skincare products become less effective

This explains why many patients feel that nothing works during winter.

Medical Approach to Treating Winter Dry Skin

At Reveal Clinics Riyadh, winter dryness is managed medically, not cosmetically.

✔ Skin Barrier Assessment

Evaluating hydration levels, sensitivity, inflammation, and underlying conditions.

✔ Correct Cleansing Protocol

Switching to barrier-friendly cleansers and reducing hot water exposure.

✔ Barrier Repair & Hydration

Customized plans may include:

medical-grade moisturizers
barrier-repair formulations
in-clinic hydration treatments
dermatologist-guided skin boosters

✔ Treating Underlying Conditions

Eczema, dermatitis, or inflammation require targeted medical therapy for lasting improvement.

Who Is Most Affected by Winter Dry Skin?

Sensitive skin types
Patients with eczema or psoriasis
Individuals over 30
Users of active skincare ingredients
Patients undergoing aesthetic treatments

❓FAQs – Winter Dry Skin in Riyadh

Why does skin itch more in winter?

Dryness and barrier damage increase nerve sensitivity.

Is winter dryness common in Riyadh?

Yes, due to low humidity and indoor heating.

Can dryness lead to pigmentation?

Yes, inflammation increases pigmentation risk.

When should I see a dermatologist?

If dryness is persistent, itchy, or worsening.

📅 Book Your Consultation – Winter Dry Skin Treatment in Riyadh

Struggling with winter-related skin dryness, irritation, or sensitivity?
Book your personalized dermatology consultation at Reveal Clinics with Dr. Haitham Al-Gzlan for expert evaluation and medically guided treatment tailored to Riyadh’s winter climate.

📍 2484 Muhammad Al Maqdimi, An Nafal, Riyadh
🌐 reveal-clinics.com
📞 +966 11 504 8687

👉 Healthy skin starts with the right diagnosis.

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