Why your skin feels itchier in Autumn (and what to do about it)

As the weather cools and humidity drops, you may notice your skin feeling drier, itchier or more sensitive than usual. For some, conditions like keratosis pilaris also seem to flare up as temperatures shift. We asked pharmacist Razaan Jakoet Isaacs to explain what’s happening and how to adjust your body care routine for the season.

Why skin feels drier in autumn

“When the temperature drops, the air holds less moisture,” explains Razaan. “That means moisture evaporates from your skin faster, which leads to dryness.”  Cold weather also triggers vasoconstriction, a natural tightening of blood vessels that reduces blood flow to the skin. This leads to dryness and a dull appearance. Add to that long, hot showers, which strip natural oils from the skin (weakening the barrier even further), and it’s no surprise your body might feel less hydrated in autumn.

Protecting your skin barrier

Your skin barrier’s job is to keep moisture in and irritants out. In cooler months, that barrier becomes weaker and allows water to escape more easily. This is when inflammation, itchiness and sensitivity start to flare up. Razaan says choosing the right product texture is essential during this time. “It is important to understand the difference between a cream and an ointment,” she says.

Creams are lighter and made from a blend of water and oil. They absorb quickly and work well for larger areas of the body. Ointments, on the other hand, are more oil-based and thicker in texture. They form a stronger protective layer on the skin and help lock in moisture for longer. These are especially useful for very dry areas like elbows, knees and hands. During autumn and winter, richer formulations often provide better support for the skin barrier.

Ingredients that help

When selecting body care products for autumn, look for fragrance-free formulations, as these are gentler on sensitive or reactive skin, as well as products that hydrate, protect, and heal. Razaan recommends including these key ingredients:

●  Occlusive agents (like beeswax and lanolin) to lock in moisture.

●  Emollients (such as shea butter, cocoa butter, and natural oils) to soften and smooth the skin.

●  Humectants (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin) draw water into the skin.

●  Anti-inflammatories (aloe vera, calendula, chamomile extracts) to calm irritation.

●  Antioxidants (vitamin E, green tea extract) to protect against environmental stress and promote healing.

Managing keratosis pilaris (KP)

For those genetically predisposed to KP, cold weather can worsen the bumps caused by keratin buildup in hair follicles. “While it’s not possible to eliminate KP, treatment focuses on hydration and gentle exfoliation,” says Razaan. She suggests using ointments or creams with the same ingredients as above, and following a consistent moisturising routine, which can all help keep flare-ups at bay.

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Clicks Skincare Collection Vitamin E and Shea Butter Body Cream

CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream for Dry Rough and Bumpy Skin

Being Kind Actives Body Lotion Hyaluronic

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Moisturiser

Epi-Max Ultra Ointment

Neutrogena Deep Moisture Body Lotion

Sorbet Firming Body Cream

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