Skin care to protect against cold and sunburn
When the temperature drops, our skin needs a lot of support. The same goes for sun protection – which we can provide by taking good care of it, for example by using skin and body care products with the Allergy Seal of Quality. In winter, both the air inside and outside is particularly dry, and this deprives the skin of moisture. Although it is cold, the sun is strong and when there is snow on the ground, the sun's rays are reflected and the amount of radiation that hits the skin increases. So choose the right sunscreen for winter sports too.
Our skin is never more stressed than during the cold season Our blood circulation is worse, and, on top of that, our skin winds down its "self-protection programme" – that is, the production of fat – just during the cold time of year, of all seasons. Our sebaceous glands practically stop working from a temperature of just eight degrees. The skin, which is the largest organ in the body, then quite literally gets irritated in response, quickly becoming dry, red and flaky. All skin types need a higher oil content in winter. It is advisable to pay attention to ingredients that are tolerated well. You can do this, for example, with certified products for skin and body care which do not contain any of the 26 allergy-causing compounds, and which usually refrain from using fragrances and dyes. The criteria for the certification of cosmetics as well as a list of ingredients that are permitted only to a limited extent, can be found here.
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Fragrance-Free Day Switzerland
Fragrances are part of our everyday lives for example in cosmetics, washing and cleaning products. However, many people are unaware that at least 20% of the Swiss population is sensitised to at least one contact allergen. Fragrances are often involved and can trigger contact allergies and irritation. Fragrance-Free Day will take place for the first time on 1 February 2026 and is being launched jointly by aha! Allergy Centre Switzerland and Service Allergie Suisse. It draws attention to the health effects of fragrances and gives advice on choosing fragrance-free products. You can find more information (in German or French) on aha.ch.
When buying cosmetics, detergents, or cleaning products, look out for products with the Allergy Seal of Quality. This seal confirms that the products have been rigorously tested and are suitable for sensitive skin. Find your products.