Why Winter is the Ideal Time for a Skin Check

By Dr Gos Gopalakrishnan

When the sun is shining, and temperatures are soaring, we all become hyper-aware of our skin, turning to sunscreen, hats, and shade as our best friends. However, as the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, skincare often takes a back seat. Interestingly, this seasonal shift leads to a noticeable decline in patient visits to skin clinics during the winter months. But here’s a thought: winter might actually be the best time to schedule your skin check. Curious? Let me explain why winter is prime time for taking care of your skin health.

A Perfect Time for Skin Treatments

Winter provides an excellent window for addressing those nagging skin concerns you’ve been putting off. Treatments that involve some downtime are much easier to manage when you’re less likely to be out and about. Here’s why winter is ideal:

• • Cryotherapy with Liquid Nitrogen: Winter is perfect for freezing spots with liquid nitrogen, a quick and effective treatment that targets a variety of skin lesions, from warts to actinic keratosis (pre-cancerous growths). During the colder months, any minor redness and swelling post-treatment are easier to hide under layers of clothing.

• Topical Treatments like Efudix or Aldara: These creams can effectively remove pre-cancerous cells and rejuvenate the skin. They often cause peeling and redness, which can be more comfortably managed when you’re spending less time outdoors and more time covered up. By the time summer rolls around, your skin will have healed beautifully, leaving you looking and feeling your best.

Recovery Time is More Manageable in Winter

Winter’s slower pace means you have more time to focus on recovery. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a topical cream, chemical peel, or a cryotherapy session, the cooler months give your skin ample time to heal without the pressure of social engagements.

Stay Ahead of Sun Damage

Winter is also a strategic time to get ahead of any sun damage accumulated during the summer. A thorough skin check can identify any changes or new lesions that need attention. Early detection is key in preventing skin cancer, and addressing issues in winter ensures you’re not caught off guard when the next summer season arrives.

Less UV Exposure in Winter

With the UV index generally lower in winter, your skin is less exposed to harmful rays. This makes it an optimal time for treatments that might make your skin temporarily more sensitive to the sun. Starting these treatments in winter minimises the risk of UV-related complications.

Peace of Mind Through Winter and Beyond

Knowing that your skin has been checked and any potential issues have been addressed can provide significant peace of mind throughout the winter months. Instead of worrying about what might be lurking under the surface, you can enjoy the sunny season with the confidence that comes from proactive care.

Building a Strong Skincare Foundation

Winter is an ideal time to establish a strong foundation for your skincare routine. With less sun exposure and fewer outdoor activities, you can focus on protecting your skin. This sets the stage for healthier skin in the warmer months, ensuring that your skin is well-prepared when spring and summer arrive.

Preventative Skin Care Should Be Year-Round

Skin health shouldn’t be a seasonal concern. Regular skin checks are vital for the early detection and prevention of skin cancer. By making winter your go-to season for a comprehensive skin check, you establish a proactive routine that ensures your skin is monitored year-round.

Winter is more than just a season of hibernation—it’s the perfect time to give your skin the attention it deserves. From cryotherapy to topical treatments, the cooler months offer a unique opportunity to address skin concerns without the rush and exposure of summer. So bundle up, book that skin check, and look forward to stepping into summer with confidence and healthy, radiant skin.

Book your skin check with us today!

About the Author

Dr Gos Gopalakrishnan

BSc (Hons), MBChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, FRACGP 

Dr Gos is a dedicated and dynamic medical leader and educator with a deep passion for skin cancer care. Based in Perth, he specialises in skin cancer management, ensuring comprehensive care for his patients. Alongside his clinical work, Dr Gos serves on an Expert Examiner Panel at Curtin Medical School, and is the Clinical Director of Radiant Doctors, an initiative established to provide sustainable primary care services and address the shortage of GPs in regional areas.