Itchy Skin in Japan? How to Fight Winter Dryness & “Winter Itch”

Japan’s winter brings beautiful snowscapes and clear blue skies, but it also brings a hidden enemy for travelers: extremely dry air. Especially in Tokyo and the Pacific side of Japan, humidity drops. Airplanes and hotel rooms can also be very dry while you are traveling.

If you find yourself constantly scratching your legs, arms, or back, you are likely suffering from “Winter Itch” or dry skin (Xerosis). While usually harmless, severe dryness can lead to cracking, bleeding, and infection, ruining your travel comfort. Here is how to manage your skin in Japan based on medical guidance from MedlinePlus.

Why Is My Skin So Itchy in Japan?

According to MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine), dry skin occurs when your skin loses water and oils. In Japan, several factors combine to create the perfect storm for this condition:

• Low Humidity: Airplanes and hotel rooms can be very dry while you are traveling.
• Indoor Heating: Shops blast heaters, which further strips moisture from the air and your skin.
• Large Public Baths: While Japanese large public baths are amazing, soaking in hot water for too long strips away natural skin oils.

Symptoms to Watch For

Common symptoms of dry skin include:

• Itching (which can be intense).
• Scaling, flaking, or peeling skin.
• Cracks in the skin (often on hands or heels) that may bleed.
• Redness or irritation.

4 Tips to Save Your Skin in Japan

You can prevent or relieve most dry skin with simple changes to your routine while traveling.

1. Change Your Bathing Habits

It is tempting to take long, hot showers to warm up, but MedlinePlus recommends:

• Taking shorter showers or baths (limit to 10 minutes).
• Using warm, not hot, water.
• Using mild soaps only where needed (armpits, groin) and avoiding harsh scrubbing on dry areas.

2. Moisturize Like a Pro

Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing while your skin is still damp. You can find excellent moisturizers at Japanese drugstores (look for “Body Milk” or “Cream”).

• Ointments & Creams: These are more effective than lotions for dry skin.
• Ingredients: Look for products containing Urea, Lactic Acid, or Ceramides.

3. Humidify Your Room

Most Japanese hotels have a humidifier (Kashitsuki) in the room or available at the front desk. Turn it on every night to keep the air moist while you sleep.

4. Hydrate

Drink plenty of water. Japanese vending machines sell warm tea and other hot drinks, which are great for keeping hydrated in the cold.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, over-the-counter lotions aren’t enough. MedlinePlus advises contacting a medical professional if:

• Your skin is badly itchy and disrupts your sleep.
• You have open sores or large areas of scaling/peeling.
• You notice signs of infection (redness, swelling, or pus).
• Home care measures do not relieve your symptoms.

The Challenge: Finding the right medicated cream in a Japanese drugstore can be confusing due to the language barrier (Kanji characters). Furthermore, if you need a prescription-strength steroid or heavy-duty moisturizer, you need a doctor.

The Smooth Solution: HOTEL de DOCTOR 24

If your skin is cracking, bleeding, or unbearably itchy, don’t suffer through your trip. HOTEL de DOCTOR 24 connects you with a doctor without the hassle of a clinic visit.

• Consult from Your Hotel: No need to brave the cold wind to find a clinic. Have an online medical consultation from your warm room.
• English Support: Explain your symptoms clearly (“It feels like my skin is burning,” “I have a rash”) with the help of professional medical interpreters.
• Prescription Power: To relieve the itching and help your skin heal more quickly, consult a doctor.

Conclusion: Protect Your Skin, Enjoy Your Trip

Dry skin is a common winter souvenir from Japan, but it doesn’t have to be a painful one. Moisturize often, use the humidifier, and skip the scalding hot showers.

If the itch becomes too much, HOTEL de DOCTOR 24 is ready to help you get the medical relief you need.

Stay moisturized and comfortable!

For Further Information & Official Guidance

This article is based on general health information from:

• MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine): “Dry Skin - Self Care” Visit MedlinePlus Page