As temperatures drop this winter, skin complaints are set to increase with almost a third (32 percent) of those who suffer from dry skin reporting that they experience the issue due to the changing season, according to new research¹ from Australian skincare manufacturer, Ego Pharmaceuticals.

The national survey of 1,006 Australians found that a staggering 72 percent of adults use moisturiser and almost half of those with dry skin (48 percent) attempt to manage it on a daily basis. 

Dermatologist Dr Deshan Sebaratnam said the cold, dry air in winter, coupled with indoor heating and extra clothing, causes a dramatic rise in troublesome skin issues. 

“It’s very important that people suffering from dry skin-related concerns are wary of relying heavily on viral social media trends without solid evidence behind them, as these could be doing more harm than good,” said Dr Deshan. 

Google searches for ‘dry skin’ spike in colder months, while the new study revealed almost one in five (16 percent) have tried a viral skincare trend, and 19 percent will do no research into the skincare product they choose to use.

“One trend that we continue to see on socials is using food products to help mend dry skin and eczema. This is something that continues to baffle me, as there is no clear evidence that food products can help improve people’s skin. 

“It's much safer and effective to choose specially formulated products which are backed by scientific research, like QV, which are dermatologically tested and proven to support the skin’s delicate barrier,” concluded Dr Deshan. 

When it comes to moisturiser alone, the survey found just two in five (41 per cent) of Australians are investing most of their product research time into moisturisers, yet the vast majority of respondents (88 percent) say it is important that skincare advice comes from a trusted source. 

Ego’s Scientific Communication and Clinical Trials Manager, Dr Ian Harrison, believes people afflicted with seasonal skin problems need to be educated on which products to trust, to better protect and soothe their skin.  

“When looking for reliable, tailored skincare advice, speaking to a healthcare professional (HCP) is the best place to start. Doctors, dermatologists, nurses, pharmacists and wider HCPs have the medical training to provide solid guidance and recommendations – or can direct you to the right source.

“Another method is to look for products that are specifically made for sensitive skin, formulated with ingredients that are backed by science and have appropriate dermatological testing to support their claims. It’s important that your skincare products are free from common irritants like colour, fragrance, and soap.

“It often pays to do some research. Manufacturer’s websites can help you understand how they make their products, and if they are committed to implementing robust science throughout that process. 

“Around 50,000 bathtubs of Ego products, including QV Skincare, are made each year. That’s because our products are held to these high standards and offer Aussies trusted products they rely on,” Dr Harrison said.    

The Eczema Association of Australasia (EAA)² found more than half (52 per cent) of current eczema sufferers describe their condition as “chronic”, and nearly three quarters (72 per cent) say weather is the biggest trigger for flare ups. 

“We’ve had a long-standing partnership with Ego/QV because their products can give many eczema and complex skin condition sufferers the relief they need. When you have sensitive skin, access to reliable, safe and effective skincare solutions is critical, and we trust Ego’s products to provide this because they are backed by science,” said Michelle Privitera, Administrator of EAA.