In winter, the skin faces considerable stress from cold, wind and temperature fluctuations. These environmental assaults weaken the skin barrier and promote sensations of tautness and itching. Why does the skin itch more in winter? Continue reading to gain a better understanding of this phenomenon and to adopt the right measures to soothe your skin.
Itchy skin in winter: what causes tight, pulling sensations?
Summary
Published on January 8, 2026, updated on January 8, 2026, by Pauline, Chemical Engineer — 6 min of reading
Themes:
How can we explain why the skin itches during winter?
In winter, the skin is exposed to environmental conditions that compromise its equilibrium. Cold and lower ambient humidity lead to a reduction in the water content of the stratum corneum, which alters the skin’s barrier function of the skin. This compromised barrier results in increased transepidermal water loss, a drier skin and a reduced ability to defend against external aggressions. The dryness that ensues is one of the main triggers for sensations of tightness and itching, particularly in individuals with naturally dry or atopic tendency.
These alterations in the skin barrier were objectively demonstrated by a study comparing the stratum corneum on the legs of eight elderly subjects in summer and winter. The results show that, in winter, the stratum corneum exhibits a looser structure and a significantly impaired barrier function. This weakening is accompanied by an increase in transepidermal water loss In winter, reflecting increased skin permeability. A more permeable stratum corneum allows chemical irritants to penetrate more readily, thereby contributing to the onset of pruritic sensations.
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3 g/m²/h
Insensible water loss during summer.
4.4 g/m²/h (+32%)
Insensible water loss during winter.
Moreover, cold does not act solely on the skin’s physical barrier but also on its biological and immune mechanisms. Low temperatures favour the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase the number of mast cells in the skin. These cells, involved in inflammatory and allergic reactions, release mediators capable of stimulating cutaneous nerve endings, thereby intensifying the sensation of itch. This cutaneous hypersensitivity explains why winter can exacerbate certain pruritic dermatoses, such as the atopic dermatitis.
Finally, frequent thermal fluctuations between the cold outdoors and heated indoor environments activate specific sensory receptors present in the skin, notably the TRP (Transient Receptor Potential) channels. These receptors play a key role in sensing cold, pain and itch. Their excessive activation contributes to cutaneous inflammation and to the transmission of the itch signal via the nerve fibres. The close interaction between the cutaneous nervous system and the immune system thus amplifies the scratching sensations observed in winter. The study cited above also demonstrates this increase in skin reactivity during winter. Burn tests show an earlier, more intense and more prolonged response compared to summer, even in subjects who exhibited no sensitivity during the warm season.
Evaluation of skin reactivity to a chloroform/methanol solution (20:80) across seasons.
Source: KLIGMAN A. M. & al. Xerotic skin of the elderly: A summer versus winter comparison based on biophysical measurements. Exogenous Dermatology (2003).
Thus, in winter, the combination of compromised barrier function, increased water loss, neurosensory hypersensitivity and heightened inflammatory mechanisms creates a favourable environment for skin tightness and itching.
Our recommendations for maintaining your skin health during winter.
When temperatures drop, the skin is subjected to significant stress, and it may be necessary to adjust one’s skincare routine to prevent tightness and itching.
Prioritise gentle cleansers : We recommend opting for soap-free formulations to avoid further compromising the lipids of the stratum corneum, which are already weakened by cold. The dermatological bars, free from soap and rich in plant oils and butters, are, for example, winter allies.
Enhancing skin hydration and nourishment : Daily application of skincare products rich in humectant agents, such as glycerine, and nourishing actives, such as ceramides, helps to reduce transepidermal water loss and restore the cohesion of the skin barrier.
Avoid excessively hot water : Very hot showers and baths favour the depletion of lipids in the stratum corneum, thereby exacerbating skin dryness and heightening sensations of tightness and itching.
Protecting the skin from cold and wind : Scarves, hats and gloves are essential in winter. They cover the most exposed and vulnerable areas—such as the face and hands—providing thermal insulation that shields them from the surrounding cold and wind.
Maintaining sufficient humidity at home : Indoor heating dries the air, which exacerbates skin dryness. Using a humidifier or placing a bowl of water near radiators can help maintain air that is more comfortable for the skin.
Discover here further guidance on caring for your skin during winter.
Sources
KLIGMAN A. M. & al. Xerotic skin of the elderly: A summer versus winter comparison based on biophysical measurements. Exogenous Dermatology (2003).
THYSSEN J. P. & al. The effect of environmental humidity and temperature on skin barrier function and dermatitis. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (2015).
KWATRA S. G. & al. Itch: Pathogenesis and treatment. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2021).
KIM B. E. & al. The impact of temperature on the skin barrier and atopic dermatitis. Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (2023).
