Why January is a Great Time to See a Dermatologist
If one of your New Year’s resolutions is for better self-care, January is one of the best times of the year to focus on your skin health. Cold temperatures, low humidity, and indoor heating can worsen many common skin conditions, making winter an ideal season to schedule a visit. From eczema to chronic itching, or simply seeking a baseline evaluation, proactive winter care can lead to healthier skin year-round.
How Winter Weather Affects Your Skin
During winter, the skin barrier is more vulnerable. Cold air and indoor heat pull moisture from the skin, often leading to:
Dry, flaky, or itchy skin
Eczema, acne and rosacea flare-ups
Increased sensitivity and irritation
A dermatologist can help identify the cause of winter skin issues and recommend medical-grade treatments and customized skincare routines that restore and protect the skin barrier.
Why January is Ideal for Acne Treatment
Winter is one of the best seasons to begin or adjust medical acne treatment. Whether you have active pimples or scarring from past flares, it is a great time to get evaluated for discussion and treatment with facials, lasers or other devices. Reduced sun exposure makes it easier to tolerate many prescription medications, including topical retinoids and oral therapies.
Dermatology-led acne care in January may include:
Prescription topical acne medications
Oral treatments, including antibiotics and Isotretinoin (Accutane) when appropriate
Hormonal acne management
Medical-grade skincare guidance
Acne purifying facials and other treatments for scarring
Starting treatment now helps many patients see clearer, healthier skin by spring.
The Importance of Winter Skin Cancer Screenings
Skin cancer doesn’t stop in winter. And remember, all it takes is one sunburn or tanning bed exposure to develop skin cancer. January is an excellent time to schedule a full-body skin exam, especially for patients with:
A history of sun exposure(childhood onward) or tanning
New or changing moles or other growths
Fair or sensitive skin
Early detection remains the most effective way to treat skin cancer and maintain long-term skin health.
Address Common Winter Skin Concerns Early
Seeing a dermatologist in January can prevent seasonal skin problems from becoming chronic. Winter visits are ideal for evaluating:
Persistent dryness or itching
Rashes like eczema
Cracked hands, lips, or heels
Treating these concerns early can reduce discomfort and prevent worsening symptoms later in the year.
Start the Year with a Personalized Dermatology Plan
Rather than relying on trial-and-error products, January is the perfect time to create a dermatologist-guided skincare plan. Personalized care helps:
Reduce flare-ups
Improve treatment consistency
Deliver better long-term results
Many patients find that starting the year with professional guidance leads to healthier skin and fewer urgent concerns throughout the year. We are dedicated to empowering our patients to identify their own skin triggers, educate and treat, allowing them to protect their skin better throughout the year despite weather changes and travel.
Accepting New Dermatology Patients
We are currently welcoming new general dermatology patients of all ages. Whether you’re managing acne, winter skin conditions, or scheduling a routine skin check, our team is here to help you start the year with confidence and expert care. Call (401) 415-8586 today.