How to Treat a Wind Burn

After a long day skiing on the slopes or jogging in frigid weather, you may notice you have developed dry, red, swollen skin, also known as wind burn. Wind burn is caused by cold wind and low humidity, leading to cracked, irritated skin that burns. This painful skin condition can be treated by applying moisturizer, gel, or ointment to soothe your skin. You can also care for the wind burn so it heals properly. Make sure you take steps like wearing a face mask or other protective gear to prevent getting wind burn so you can enjoy the great outdoors without having to worry about dry, irritated skin.

EditSteps

EditApplying Moisturizer, Gel, or Ointment

1. Apply a moisturizing cream. Look for a cream that contains hydrating ingredients like shea butter, oats, and lanolin. Make sure the cream is paraben and fragrance-free so it does not irritate your skin.^[1]
   
   • Avoid creams with harsh chemicals or dyes, as they can irritate your skin.
2. Use a hydrating ointment. Ointment is usually thicker than cream and can be a good option if your skin is really irritated or burned. Look for a triple antibiotic ointment that contains hydrocortisone, as it can help your skin heal quickly.^[2]
   
   • It can be especially helpful to apply these ointments overnight. Take care, though, that you do not get any in your eyes.
3. Apply aloe vera gel. Aloe vera gel can help to soothe dry or irritated skin, much like it does for a sunburn. Look for aloe vera gel at your local health food store or online.^[3]
   
4. Use coconut oil for a natural option. Coconut oil is great for hydrating and soothing irritated skin. It can also help your skin heal faster. Look for coconut oil at your local health food store or online.^[4]
   

EditCaring for Wind Burn

1. Stay indoors and avoid the sun. Try not to go outside and expose your skin to the sun or cold weather. Give your skin time to heal before you venture outside in harsh winds or cold temperatures.^[5]
   
2. Have lukewarm showers or baths. Very hot showers or baths can dry out your skin further and slow down healing. Opt for lukewarm showers or baths instead so your skin can recover.^[6]
   
3. Do not rub or scratch at your skin. Doing so can make the wind burn worse. Try not to touch your skin at all, except gently in a shower or bath, so it can heal.^[7]
   
   • Wear long sleeve shirts and clothing that covers any areas with wind burn so your skin can recover.
4. Take over-the-counter pain medication. If you experience pain due to wind burn, have OTC pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Follow the dosage instructions on the label and never take more than the recommended amount.^[8]
   

EditPreventing Wind Burn

1. Apply SPF 15 or higher before you go outside. Protect your skin from burning by wearing sunscreen any time you go outside, especially if you are going to be outdoors for a long period of time.^[9]
   
2. Put on a thick, moisturizing cream to protect your skin. Cover any exposed skin with moisturizing cream to lock in the natural oils in your skin and keep it hydrated. Put lip chap on your lips as well to protect them from wind burn.^[10]
   
   • Make sure you reapply the cream as necessary so your skin stays hydrated and protected.
3. Keep your skin covered when you go outside. Try not to expose your skin to the elements if you can help it. Wear long sleeves and pants as well as gloves, a scarf, and a face covering if you are venturing out into harsh winds or cold weather.^[11]
   

EditSources and Citations

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