In a recent blog posting, I addressed the issue of bleeding from spider veins, and the association with dry skin.  The question is what can you do to prevent dryness of the skin.

Skin Care in Colder Weather

During the winter, colder weather months, there is a constant change occurring to or skin.  When out in the cold the skin contracts, and upon reentry into a warm indoor environment the skin will reexpand.  These temperature changes lead to dryness of the skin, and as result the skin may crack and predispose bleeding from spider veins on the surface of the skin.  In order to protect the skin from these constant changes, it is important to moisturize the skin several times a day.  In the morning, especially after a hot shower, and again at the end of daily activities. Any of the commercial available moisturizing creams or lotions is fine, and you may want to experiment to find the one that is best for you.

Stocking for Varicose Veins

If you have underlying varicose veins of any degree, then the use of a support/compression stocking will be of benefit to prevent swelling of the lower extremity.  Appropriate placement of these stockings is crucial-placing them on the leg before they are dependent will give the maximum benefit.  For the best outcomes, it would be recommended to put the stockings on before getting out of bed in the morning.  However, being cognizant that this would not be doable for most people, it would be effective to elevate the legs for several minutes prior to placing the stocking.  Also moisturization of the skin prior to placement of the stocking would be beneficial.  So in practical terms, after showering, moisturize the skin, sit down and elevate the legs on a chair, and after several minutes when the moisture has had time to seep into the skin, put on the stockings.

If you do not have varicose veins, use of a support/compression hose may not be necessary.  However if your job requires prolonged standing—doorman, hairdresser, chef or similar occupations, then support hose would be helpful to prevent swelling of the legs, and will also energize your legs during daily activities.