The Sneaky Spring Sun
The First Warm Day Trap Every year it happens the same way. The snow melts, the air softens, patios start opening, and suddenly people remember that life exists outside again. After months of parkas and grey skies, the first warm day feels like freedom. And sunscreen is the last thing on anyone’s mind. By the time I start seeing patients in early spring, I already know what is coming. Pink noses. Tender shoulders. A few sheepish admissions that they “did not think the sun was strong yet.” It is one of the most predictable dermatology patterns of the year. The early spring sunburn. Why People Forget Sunscreen in Spring The problem is psychological more than meteorological. Winter trains us to think of the sun as harmless. We spend months with limited daylight, heavy clothing, and very little exposed skin. When spring arrives, the sun feels gentle. The air is still cool. It does not feel like summer. But ultraviolet radiation does not care how warm the air feels. In fact, UV levels can rise quickly in early spring, even when temperatures are still low. If you live somewhere like Montreal, the angle of the sun changes rapidly after March. Daylight increases. UV exposure follows. Your skin, however, has spent months out of practice. After winter, melanin levels are low and skin is more vulnerable. That combination makes early spring one of the easiest times of the year to burn. The Classic Spring Sunburn Scenario Most spring sunburns happen during ordinary activities. Nothing dramatic. People go for a walk. They sit outside for coffee. They clean the yard. They take the dog out for a long stroll. Two hours later, they come inside and notice the same thing. The nose is pink. The cheeks feel warm. The top of the ears are suddenly tender. The mistake is simple. Sunscreen never entered the equation because it still “felt like spring.” The Parts People Forget Even people who are careful about sun protection in summer often forget certain areas in early spring. I see burns most commonly on: These areas receive direct sunlight during casual outdoor time, especially when people are not thinking about protection. The scalp is a particularly common surprise. As the sun gets higher in the sky, that narrow hair part acts like a runway for UV exposure. Spring Sun Is Not Harmless Sun One of the biggest myths in dermatology is that strong sun equals hot weather. The truth is simpler. UV radiation depends on the sun’s angle and intensity, not the temperature outside. A cool April afternoon can deliver enough UV exposure to cause real skin damage. Over time, those small exposures accumulate. Sun damage is not only about dramatic beach burns. It often develops from repeated everyday exposure that people barely notice. A Simple Spring Habit The solution is not complicated. Once March arrives, sunscreen should return to the daily routine. Think of it the same way you think about brushing your teeth. Something automatic before leaving the house. A broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher applied to the face, ears, neck, and chest is usually enough for everyday spring activity. If you plan to spend longer outside, reapply every two hours. Hats also do more work than people realize. A simple brim can dramatically reduce UV exposure to the face. A Dermatologist’s Spring Reminder Spring is one of the most enjoyable seasons in Canada. After months of winter, everyone wants to be outside again. And they should be. But the sun wakes up faster than we do. Every year I remind patients of the same thing. The sun does not wait until July to start doing damage. By the time summer arrives, the exposure has already begun. So enjoy the warmer days. Take the walk. Sit on the terrace. Just remember the sunscreen before you go outside. Use it 12 months a year. Your skin will thank you later.
Lip Talk
February is hard on lips. Cold air, indoor heating, wind, scarves rubbing, and the reflex to lick dry skin all gang up at once. I see more irritated lips in February than almost any other month, and many patients are surprised to learn they are not dealing with simple dryness. What they often have is lip dermatitis. Lip dermatitis, also called cheilitis, is inflammation of the lips and the surrounding skin. It can look like persistent dryness, redness, scaling, cracking at the corners, burning, or stinging. It can feel tight, sore, and strangely resistant to every lip balm you own. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. What causes lip dermatitis The lips are uniquely vulnerable. The skin is thin, has very few oil glands, and loses moisture easily. In winter, this barrier is already under stress. Add repeated exposure to irritants and allergens, and inflammation follows. Common triggers include fragranced lip balms, essential oils, menthol, peppermint, cinnamon, and flavorings. Long wear or matte lipsticks can be drying and irritating. Toothpaste is another frequent culprit, especially those with whitening agents, strong mint flavors, or sodium lauryl sulfate. Even habitual lip licking can worsen dermatitis, since saliva breaks down the skin barrier and increases moisture loss. Cold weather plays a big role. Rapid temperature changes from outdoors to heated interiors cause repeated expansion and contraction of the skin. This weakens the barrier and allows irritants to penetrate more easily. In February, I often see a perfect storm of cold exposure plus well intentioned overuse of the wrong products. Signs it is more than dry lips Dry lips usually improve quickly with a simple occlusive balm. Lip dermatitis does not. Redness lingers, scaling returns within hours, and stinging appears when products are applied. The skin around the lips may become pink or irritated, creating a faint outline beyond the vermilion border. Cracks at the corners of the mouth, known as angular cheilitis, may develop. Another clue is product hopping. If you are constantly switching balms because nothing seems to work, dermatitis should be considered. More product does not always mean better results. The February lip reset When I diagnose lip dermatitis, the first step is a reset. For two weeks, simplify completely. Use a bland, fragrance free lip product. Petrolatum based ointments are often best because they seal in moisture and contain very few potential irritants. Apply frequently, especially before going outside and before bed. Stop using flavored or scented lip balms, plumping products, and long wear lipsticks. Switch to a gentle, fragrance free toothpaste. Avoid licking your lips, even though it feels temporarily soothing. At night, apply a thick layer of ointment and let it work while you sleep. This pause allows the skin barrier to recover. In many cases, symptoms improve significantly within one to two weeks. When treatment is needed Sometimes lip dermatitis needs more than avoidance and barrier repair. If inflammation is significant, short term prescription treatments may be required to calm the skin and break the cycle. This should always be guided by a dermatologist, since the lip area is sensitive and prolonged use of certain medications can cause problems. If angular cheilitis is present, there may be a yeast or bacterial component that needs specific treatment. This is especially common in winter, when saliva accumulates at the corners of the mouth and the skin stays damp. Smart lip care going forward Once your lips have healed, you can slowly reintroduce products, one at a time. This helps identify triggers and prevents repeat flares. Look for lip products labeled fragrance free and hypoallergenic, but remember that labels are not guarantees. Fewer ingredients are usually safer. In winter, protect your lips the way you protect your hands and face. Apply balm before going outside. Use a scarf as a wind barrier, but keep it clean and dry. Stay hydrated, and use a humidifier indoors if the air is very dry. Sun protection still matters, even in February. Choose a lip product with mineral based SPF if you spend time outdoors. UV exposure can worsen lip inflammation and contribute to long term damage. Btw, lip filler can help This often surprises patients, but in selected cases, lip filler can play a supportive role in lip health. I am not talking about dramatic volume or cosmetic trends. I am talking about restoring structure, hydration, and function. Hyaluronic acid fillers attract and retain water. When placed conservatively and correctly, they can improve the lip’s ability to hold moisture and reduce chronic cracking and irritation. For patients with age related thinning of the lips, loss of definition, or deep vertical lines that trap saliva, filler can help reestablish a smoother surface and a stronger barrier. In some cases, recurrent angular cheilitis is worsened by lip collapse or downturned corners that allow saliva to pool. Subtle structural support can reduce this mechanical irritation and make medical treatments more effective. It is important to be clear. Lip filler does not treat active dermatitis. Inflamed skin should always be calmed first. But once the lips are healthy, filler can be part of a longer term strategy to reduce recurrence and improve comfort, especially in patients who struggle every winter despite excellent lip care. A final word Lips are small, but when they are inflamed, they affect comfort, confidence, and daily life. Persistent lip irritation is not something you need to live with, and it is not a personal failure of hydration or willpower. Lip dermatitis is common, especially in winter, and very treatable once the right approach is taken. February is the perfect time to give your lips a break, simplify your routine, and let the skin heal. If symptoms persist despite careful care, a dermatologic evaluation can make all the difference. Healthy lips should feel comfortable, flexible, and boring. In my book, boring is a compliment.
Winter Skin Talk From My Office
Hi, I’m Dr. Mathieu Powell, and if your skin has been acting strangely lately, welcome to winter. This is the season where lips crack, cheeks sting, hands age ten years overnight, and everyone swears their usual routine has suddenly betrayed them. It has not. Winter just plays by different rules. Let’s walk through what is happening to your skin right now, what you can do about it, and why this is quietly the best season of the year for laser and IPL treatments. Why Winter Is Hard on SkinCold air holds very little moisture. Indoor heating finishes the job. Together, they strip water from your skin and weaken the barrier that normally keeps things calm. What I see most in winter: · Dry, tight skin that feels uncomfortable after cleansing · Flaking around the nose, eyebrows, and mouth · Redness and irritation, especially for rosacea prone skin · Eczema flare ups on hands and legs · Lips that never seem to recover If your skin suddenly feels sensitive to products you have used for years, that is normal this time of year. Simple Winter Skin Care That Actually Works This is not the season for complicated routines. Winter skin responds best to consistency and restraint. Cleanse GentlyIf your face feels tight after washing, your cleanser is too harsh. Look for non foaming or cream cleansers. Once a day cleansing at night is often enough. Choose warm showers rather than hot ones. Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils and can worsen dryness and irritation. Cleanse only what needs cleansing. Daily washing should focus on the face, armpits, and genital area. Overwashing the rest of the body can contribute to dry, itchy skin. Moisturize Like You Mean ItWinter moisturizers should contain ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or shea butter. Apply while skin is still slightly damp. That timing matters. Protect the BarrierThis is not the moment to over exfoliate. Limit acids and retinoids if your skin is irritated. If you use them, buffer with moisturizer. Do Not Skip SunscreenSnow reflects light. Winter sun still damages skin. Broad spectrum SPF every morning, even when it is cloudy. Hands and Lips Need Their Own PlanHand cream by every sink. Lip balm before bed, every night, no exceptions. Add Moisture to the AirConsider using a humidifier in the bedroom. Adding moisture to the air overnight helps support skin hydration during the winter months. Winter Skin Problems I Treat Most Often Patients often come in worried something is wrong. Usually, it is just winter doing its thing. Common visits include: · Eczema flare ups · Rosacea worsening with cold exposure · Perioral dermatitis triggered by dryness · Cracks on fingertips that will not heal · Dull skin tone and uneven texture The good news is that most of these improve quickly once we adjust skincare and calm the barrier. On Another Note: Why Winter Is the Best Time for Laser and IPL This is the part patients are always surprised by. Winter is ideal for laser and IPL treatments because there is less sun exposure. Less sun means lower risk of pigmentation issues and better healing. Laser and IPL can help with: · Sun damage and brown spots · Redness and broken capillaries · Uneven skin tone · Texture and early signs of aging · Hair reduction You heal indoors, bundled up, and by the time summer arrives, your skin is clearer and more even. Think of it as quiet preparation. If you have been considering treatment but keep postponing, winter is your window. A Final Word From Me If your skin feels different in winter, it is not failing you. It is asking for a little extra support. Simplify, moisturize generously, protect the barrier, and take advantage of this season for treatments that need low sun exposure. And if you are unsure what your skin actually needs, that is what we are here for. Sometimes the most helpful thing is a calm, professional eye and a plan that makes sense for your life. Your skin will thank you by spring.
Why Winter Skin Feels So Miserable
Whenever someone walks into my office in January and blurts out that their skin feels like an old leather wallet, I tell them I completely understand what they mean. Winter air steals moisture from your skin faster than you realize. Cold wind outside. Hot air blasting inside. Low humidity everywhere. Your skin gets tight, flaky, itchy and sometimes even a little angry with you. Think of winter as a season that needs its own skincare routine. Your summer habits simply cannot carry you through February. This is the time to switch gears to richer textures, calmer routines and smarter protection. Time to Bring Out the Heavier MoisturizerYour skin barrier works harder in cold weather. It loses water more quickly and needs a thicker product to trap hydration and keep everything comfortable. A lightweight lotion that felt wonderful in July simply evaporates too fast in December. Look for creams with ceramides. Hyaluronic acid. Glycerin. Shea butter. Anything that can sit on the skin and give it a protective drink. I tell my patients to think about texture. If the cream feels luxurious and stays put, your skin will thank you. Apply it twice a day. After your shower, pat dry and put it on right away. At night, do the same. Winter skin thrives on routine. Yes, You Still Need SunscreenThis surprises people every single year. The sun is lower. The cold tricks you. You assume you are safe. Unfortunately, the UV rays are still there and snow acts like a giant mirror reflecting the light straight into your face. For skiers, this becomes even more important. High altitude increases UV exposure. Fresh powder reflects it back at you. You can come back from the mountain with a burn even if it is minus fifteen and windy. Use a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day. If you ski, reapply during breaks. Your future self will be grateful. A Word for All the Skiers Out ThereIf you love the slopes, winter is thrilling and terrible for your skin at the same time. Cold wind strips moisture. Goggles rub. Sun reflects everywhere. Add the dry chalet air and you have the perfect storm. Before heading out, put on a thick layer of moisturizer. Think of it as another piece of protective gear. Then apply your sunscreen. A stick format is easy to reapply on the mountain. When you come home, give your face a break. Use a creamy cleanser and a soothing balm. Drink water even if you are not thirsty. Your skin will bounce back faster. Why You Should Shorten Your ShowersLong hot showers are winter’s silent enemy. I know they feel wonderful. I know everyone secretly wants to stand there until the bathroom looks like a sauna. Hot water strips the natural oils that keep your barrier strong. Once those oils are gone, dryness and itching begin. Keep the water warm rather than hot. Limit the shower to ten minutes. Use gentle cleansers rather than foaming ones. Then moisturize immediately while your skin is still slightly damp. This small change alone can improve winter itch dramatically. Final Thoughts from the ClinicWinter does not have to feel like a battle. It just requires a shift in habits. A heavier moisturizer. Daily sunscreen. A little care before and after skiing. Shorter, gentler showers. These are simple adjustments that give your skin a fighting chance all season long. If your skin is still uncomfortable despite all this, come see me. Sometimes winter dryness is not just dryness. Eczema can flare. Rosacea can worsen. A proper plan can make winter far more tolerable. Until then, stay warm, stay hydrated and treat your skin kindly.
Fall Skin Refresh with Dr. Mathieu Powell
Why Your Skin Needs Extra Care in Fall and Winter As summer fades and the colder months roll in, your skin’s needs change dramatically. Humidity drops, indoor heating cranks up, and suddenly dryness, redness, and irritation become daily visitors. Knowing how to adjust your skincare routine now can save you from a long, flaky winter. Hydration is the First Step One of the most significant skincare shifts for fall is the importance of hydration. Summer humidity helps our skin hold moisture, but autumn air is far less forgiving. To keep skin soft and resilient: These small changes can prevent dry patches and keep your skin barrier strong. Treatments That Work Best in Fall Fall is the ideal season to book treatments that don’t mix well with summer sun exposure. With lower UV levels, your skin heals more effectively and the results last longer. Some of the best options include: If you’ve been waiting all summer to try these, now’s the perfect time. Don’t Ditch the Sunscreen It’s a common mistake to stop using SPF when summer ends. But UV rays don’t take a holiday. Fall and winter sun, especially when reflected off snow, can cause just as much damage. Daily SPF is non-negotiable if you want to prevent premature aging and skin cancer. Key Takeaway: Prep Now for Winter Skin Success Think of fall as a reset button for your skin. Hydrate more, repair summer’s damage, and protect against the sun year-round. With the proper care and treatments, your skin will look and feel its best, even when the temperature dips. See you at the clinic, Dr. Mathieu Powell
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Spring Break? Let’s Talk Sun Damage.
Protecting Your Skin After Years in the Sun By Dr. Mathieu Powell Spring break: for some, it’s a March vacation, a sunny escape; for others, it might bring back memories of…well, maybe a little too much sun. As a dermatologist, I often see patients who, years after those youthful sunburns, are now concerned about the long-term effects of sun exposure. March is a great time to talk about this. It is before spring break and before the warmer weather truly hits when we’re all tempted to spend more time outdoors. We all know (or should know!) that sun exposure can be harmful. But it’s not just the immediate sunburn that’s the problem. It’s the cumulative damage over years that can really impact your skin health. Those sunburns from spring breaks past? They can increase your risk of skin cancer later in life. That’s why regular skin checks are so crucial, especially if you have a history of sunburns or extensive sun exposure. Think of it this way: you get your car checked regularly to make sure everything is running smoothly, right? Your skin deserves the same attention! What Happens Over Time? Sun damage doesn’t just disappear. It accumulates, leading to: What Can You Do Now? Even if you’ve had your share of sunburns, it’s never too late to start protecting your skin. Here are some key steps: Looking Ahead Spring break may be a distant memory for some of us, but the effects of past sun exposure can linger. Taking proactive steps now can help protect your skin health for years to come. Don’t wait until you see a problem – schedule your skin check today! Your skin will thank you.
