In response to the problem of dry and itchy skin caused by winter, some people believe that it is due to "unclean" skin and blindly use soap containing sulfur for bathing, believing that its ingredients are healthier and have antibacterial and bacteriostatic effects. But Li Hang, chief physician of the Department of Dermatology and Venereology at Peking University First Hospital, reminds the public that using this highly alkaline soap for bathing is more likely to damage the skin barrier. Taking frequent showers to wash away natural oils, Li Hang explained that the main reason for dry and itchy skin in winter is not "uncleanliness", but rather the damage to the skin barrier caused by dry weather. At this point, blindly increasing the frequency of bathing and excessive cleaning can only solve temporary itching, which may lead to more serious skin problems in the future. Furthermore, do not use overheated water for hot washing. The surface of human skin has a layer of oil as a protective film, which covers the skin surface and can lock in moisture. The higher the water temperature, the easier the protective oil is to dissolve. In winter, the skin itself is dry. Washing with high-temperature hot water may further damage the oil, making the skin drier and more fragile. Even a slight stimulation may cause severe itching and even trigger skin diseases. Washing products with strong alkalinity make the skin more tight. Firstly, in response to the statement that "bathing with soap containing sulfur has healthier ingredients and can help the skin kill bacteria and inhibit bacteria," Li Hang explained that sulfur has antibacterial and bacteriostatic effects, but the alkalinity of this soap itself is very strong, which can easily break down the skin barrier and worsen the tightness of the skin after washing. Therefore, it is recommended that everyone take a bath with warm water in winter and avoid using soap that is too alkaline. Secondly, after taking a shower, it is recommended to gently pat the skin with a towel, absorb moisture, and avoid rubbing vigorously. After drying, apply moisturizer as soon as possible to quickly form a moisturizing film and lock in moisture. If there is a problem of dry and itchy skin, it is necessary to reduce the frequency of bathing appropriately, and the bathing time should not be too long. Rubbing too hard makes the skin more sensitive. Finally, Li Hang reminds everyone to change the habit of vigorously scrubbing. The so-called "mud" produced by scrubbing is essentially the outermost layer of keratin on the skin, which is an important defense line for protecting the skin. Rubbing mud vigorously during bathing can easily damage the oil secreted by the skin. Although scrubbing can relieve itching, it actually breaks down the skin barrier, leaving the skin's "door open" and making it exceptionally sensitive. (New Society)