Highveld Winter Isn't a Serum Problem. It's Hard Water and Dry Air.
By Michael C. · Written and reviewed by Michael C.
Barrier Repair · Published 2026-09-06 · 9 min read · 2009 words · Updated 2026-09-08
Gauteng winter flares often start in the shower. Hard water plus foam plus heated air will beat most actives until you change the wash.
Key takeaways
- Hard water and dry Highveld air strip the barrier faster than most serums can fix.
- Switch to low-foam cleansers and ceramide cream on damp skin.
- Pause daily acids until sting settles; escalate if cracks bleed or sleep is lost.
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Source: Journal of Investigative Dermatology / UK hard-water eczema research (https://www.kcl.ac.uk/archive/news/kings/newsrecords/2017/09-september/the-hard-truth-about-eczema-it%27s-something-in-the-water)
Cover image: Unsplash — credit