Wellness
By Andrii Holovko
10 min read

Skin care and cleansing play an important role in our health and overall well-being. Currently - during the cold season - the risk of infections and respiratory diseases such as flu waves or other viral illnesses increases significantly. Enhanced hygiene measures such as regular handwashing or disinfection are essential to minimize the spread of germs. At the same time, frequent hygiene measures stress the skin barrier and can lead to dryness. Modern disinfectants often contain moisturizing components, but dedicated skin care products protect the sensitive acid mantle more effectively. People with sensitive skin in particular benefit from creams and lotions that prevent dryness and support the immune system - because intact skin is a central protective shield against pathogens.

Annual flu waves and other disease outbreaks also require more frequent and thorough handwashing and disinfection. Especially when the hands are disinfected frequently - for example, when working in medical facilities - the skin can become very stressed. Many modern disinfectants do have moisturizing properties or are made with skin-friendly ingredients. However, dedicated moisturizers are better suited to protecting the sensitive acid mantle. At least people with sensitive skin should use moisturizing creams or lotions to protect their skin from drying out.

Dry skin often manifests as itching and, depending on the severity of its effects, can significantly impair the quality of life of those affected. The skin is not only covered with countless sensory cells, which give it highly sensitive pain and temperature perception in addition to the sense of touch - it is also one of the most important protective shields of our immune system.

However, flaky or even cracked skin provides germs with welcome entry points. Inflammation of the affected areas of skin or other infections may result. In addition to frequent handwashing or temperature-related factors such as dry heated air or cold, dry skin can also be caused by various diseases.

Among the best-known skin conditions that cause dry skin are atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Some diseases - such as diabetes mellitus or an underactive thyroid - can also cause dry skin as a side effect. The causes of these diseases are often age-related or linked to metabolism. As we age, the skin also becomes thinner and is less able to retain moisture.

The skin also dries out when the body lacks water. Dry skin can therefore also occur if you do not drink enough. In any case, skin care products make a valuable contribution to keeping the skin supple and stabilizing its acid mantle through their replenishing properties.

Woman using hand sanitizer on her left hand

Skin care products

In the Medicalcorner24® range, you will find a huge selection of various skin care products such as creams, lotions, or soaps. These include products specifically for facial care or body care for every skin type.

Body lotions - skin care and protection products

Sensitive or irritated skin requires daily care. Our range includes caring creams, gels, lotions, and ointments with replenishing effects as well as products for stabilizing the skin's acid mantle. Especially when your hands are heavily used in everyday life, these care products protect the skin from drying out.

Creams and lotions differ in their composition.

  • Skin creams are enriched with fats
  • Lotions are made on a water basis

Ingredients are also added to these products to achieve specific effects or a particular aroma. Common additives in medical creams and lotions for skin care include, for example, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, or the urea urea.

Woman using hand creamRegeneration creams are intended to support the regeneration of damaged skin and make it elastic and supple again. They can be applied, for example, after work. Ideally, these creams should be left to absorb for a longer period - for example, overnight -. In our shop, for example, you will find SENSIVA® Regeneration Cream from Schülke. This panthenol-containing emulsion adapts to the skin's natural hydrolipid film and soothes skin irritation. Repair cream for damaged skin goes one step further in its effectiveness than regeneration cream. In addition to caring for irritated skin, repair cream is especially suitable for treating epithelializing wounds. Care balms contain soothing and moisturizing ingredients. They are generally designed for heavily stressed skin that is frequently disinfected, washed, or otherwise irritated at work, for example. Petroleum jelly is a petroleum-based mixture developed as early as the 19th century and is still used today as a skin care product. A layer of the soft substance can protect particularly dry or cracked skin from drying out. Since areas of skin can be practically shielded from the air with petroleum jelly for a while, it is ideally suited for the tattoo area. Fresh tattoos are still very sensitive and the treated skin is severely irritated. Petroleum jelly acts like a protective film over these areas of skin. We can offer decolorized, pure white petroleum jelly under our own brand in a one-kilogram tub. Another - completely natural - care product under the Medicalcorner24® brand is original Australian tea tree oil, which we can offer in various quantities from 10 to 100 millilitres. This care oil is made from the pure natural oil of the leaves of the Australian tea tree. It can also be used for skin care on the face and around the mouth. Thanks to its antiseptic effect, it is also suitable for relieving insect bites. In addition, Australian tea tree oil can also be used as a pleasantly scented bath additive or for aromatherapy. The product contains no preservatives and is bottled in brown light-protective bottles. Important note: The original Australian tea tree oil is intended exclusively for external use! Keep it out of the reach of children and make sure that the oil does not get into the eyes during use!Skin spray is a solution for quick care while out and about or in between activitiesSkin spray is a solution for quick care while out and about or in between activities. The MoliCare® Skin Skin Protector Spray from Hartmann contains, for example, amino acids, creatine and anti-inflammatory essential unsaturated fatty acids, and is easy to spray onto the skin. This product can be used in conjunction with many incontinence products. We also carry oil-based skin protection spray from the same brand. The combination of moisturizing panthenol and almond oil absorbs quickly and forms a fine protective film on the skin. A hydrogel such as Baktolan vital by Bode is rubbed in to improve both skin elasticity and circulation. Essential oils from ingredients such as arnica, eucalyptus, menthol, and rosemary have a cooling and invigorating effect at the same time.Selection of skin care products on a table with natural ingredients such as shea butter and tea tree oil

Tips for gentle skin care

A consistent skin care routine begins with selecting the right product according to skin type and level of stress. For dry skin, richer creams containing urea or panthenol are recommended; they penetrate deep into the skin layers and bind moisture. Sensitive or irritated skin, on the other hand, benefits from lightweight, water-based lotions that absorb quickly and do not leave an occlusive film. According to the German Dermatological Society (DDG), after frequent hand washing or disinfection, skin care should be applied within three minutes of hygiene measures to restore the natural hydrolipid film.

In winter, dry heated air increases dehydration - lipid-replenishing creams containing ceramides or shea butter can help by strengthening the skin barrier. A 2023 study by the University of Hamburg shows that regular use of such products can reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 30%. Apply the moisturizer generously in the evening and leave it on overnight - ideal for regenerative processes during sleep.

For heavily stressed hands in everyday working life (e.g. nursing staff), barrier creams before work and repair products afterward are suitable. Combine this with skin-friendly disinfectants containing glycerin or panthenol. The German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) recommends integrating skin care into the work routine to prevent occupational dermatoses.

Natural oils such as tea tree oil should be diluted (max. 5% in a carrier cream) and used only externally. They have an antiseptic effect, but can cause irritation if overdosed. For atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, medical consultation is advisable - medicated creams with bisabolol or zinc oxide often help here.

Children's skin is particularly sensitive: Use fragrance-free, pH-neutral products and first test new creams on the crook of the arm. Adequate fluid intake (at least 1.5–2 liters daily) supports the skin from within - dry skin is often a symptom of dehydration.

Finally: Less is more. Over-moisturizing can inhibit the skin's natural sebum production. A morning and evening routine with cleansing, care and protection is sufficient. Look for ingredients without microplastics, parabens or silicones for sustainable care.

Woman applying regenerative cream to her face at night

Your skin - your strongest shield in every season

Healthy, well-cared-for skin is more than just beauty - it is the first barrier of your immune system. Especially during the cold season, when dry heated air, cold and frequent hygiene routines put strain on the skin, consistent care is essential. With the right products - from nourishing creams and moisturizing lotions to natural oils such as tea tree oil - you not only protect against dryness and irritation, but also minimize the risk of infections.Healthy, well-cared-for skin is more than just beauty - it is the first barrier of your immune systemAt Medicalcorner24®, you will find dermatologically tested, skin-friendly solutions for every skin type and every challenge: whether in everyday working life, for atopic dermatitis or to support wound healing. Combine these with our tips for strengthening your immune system during cold season, and you will be protected holistically. Take action now: Discover our complete medical skincare range, choose the right care for you and invest in your health - for supple skin and strong defenses all year round.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I use skin care products?

The frequency depends on skin type, season, and level of exposure. For normal skin, twice daily (morning and evening) after cleansing is sufficient. Heavily stressed hands need care after every washing or disinfection - ideally within three minutes to minimize moisture loss. The DDG recommends applying a thick layer in the evening to dry skin and leaving it on overnight to promote regeneration. The need increases in winter or in heated indoor air: an additional application at midday may be useful. Pay attention to the skin's signals - itching or a feeling of tightness indicate a need for care. Studies by the University of Münster (2024) show that consistent care after hygiene strengthens the barrier function by 25% and reduces infection risks. Important: Do not overdo it. Using products too frequently can disrupt natural sebum production. Introduce new products gradually and monitor the reaction over 1–2 weeks.

Which products are suitable for sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin reacts quickly with redness or itching - fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulations are essential in this case. Prefer water-based lotions with Panthenol, bisabolol, or aloe vera, which soothe without being greasy. Avoid alcohol, fragrances, and highly concentrated essential oils. Products such as SENSIVA® Regeneration Cream are dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin. The European Society of Contact Allergy (ESCD) recommends checking ingredients for allergens - patch tests before first use are advisable. For neurodermatitis or eczema, medical creams containing urea (5–10%) or ceramides can help. Combine these with moisturizing baths and avoid hot water. In the long term, an intact barrier strengthens the immune system and reduces susceptibility to infections.

Can dry skin impair the immune system?

Yes, dry or cracked skin weakens the body's first line of defense. The acid mantle (pH 4.5–5.5) prevents bacteria and viruses from penetrating. When the skin is dry, the pH rises, creating entry points for germs - increasing the risk of skin infections or systemic diseases. According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), intact skin correlates with greater resistance to respiratory infections because fewer germs are transmitted via the hands. Scientists assume that regular skin care can reduce nosocomial infections in clinical settings by up to 18%. Especially during cold season, moist, supple skin is essential. Dry mucous membranes and skin increase virus uptake - care is therefore preventive. Drink enough fluids and use lipid-replenishing products to strengthen the barrier.

Difference between cream and lotion?

The main difference lies in the consistency and composition. Creams are rich in fat (oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions), absorb more slowly, and are suitable for dry, cracked skin. They form a protective film and provide long-lasting moisture. Lotions are water-based, lighter, and absorb quickly - ideal for normal to oily skin or quick application in between. They cool and refresh but leave less of a greasy residue. According to the Society for Dermopharmacy (GD), the choice depends on the water-to-fat ratio: creams >50% fat, lotions <50%. In everyday life: Apply cream in the evening for regeneration, and lotion in the morning under makeup. For sensitive skin in winter: combine both - lotion during the day, cream at night.

Tips for winter care?

Winter air and heating draw moisture from the skin - the rule here is: replenish lipids and bind moisture. Use creams containing shea butter, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid. Apply a barrier cream before going outside to protect against cold and wind. Ventilate indoor spaces regularly and use a humidifier - optimal indoor humidity: 40–60%. The DDG warns against hot showers, which wash away oils. Instead, use lukewarm water and lipid-replenishing cleansing lotions. Supplement this with an omega-3-rich diet (salmon, nuts) and sufficient fluids. In cases of severe dryness: products containing urea (5–10%). Regular care not only prevents cracks but also strengthens the immune defenses during flu season.

Are natural oils such as tea tree oil safe?

Tea tree oil is safe when used correctly and has antiseptic properties. Always dilute it (max. 5% in carrier oil or cream) to avoid irritation. The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) confirms its effectiveness against acne and fungi when applied topically. Do not apply undiluted to open wounds or mucous membranes. Seek medical advice in case of allergies or pregnancy. Children under 6: Use only diluted and under supervision. Storage: Cool, dark, and childproof. Alternatives: almond oil or jojoba oil as a carrier oil. A patch test before first use is recommended. Natural oils complement but do not replace medical treatment for skin conditions.

About Andrii Holovko

Andrii Holovko is an analyst with a university education in computer science, library science, and pedagogy. Thanks to his experience in public relations (PR) and many years of work in the IT industry, he writes expert articles on current topics, based on in-depth analyses and up-to-date scientific sources. His current professional focus is on creating high-quality content (content creation) and online marketing.