There are two main reasons why people might experience itchy skin when it’s cold outside. The first is a condition called pruritus hiemalis, also known as ‘winter itch’.

According to Dr Jonathan Kentley, consultant dermatologist at the Montrose Clinic, this condition is relatively common and stems from how drying the cold weather can be.

“If you are prone to dry or irritated skin, the cold weather can dry out the skin even further, because the lack of humidity draws water from the skin,” he says. “This can then be made worse by using central heating when we’re at home.” As the skin continues to dry out, it becomes stripped of its natural oils, compromising its protective barrier. As a result, our nerve endings can become irritated, leading to an itchy sensation.

It’s for this reason that people with eczema or other skin conditions might find their symptoms get worse during winter as the skin loses its integrity.

The second reason why some people experience itchiness after exposure to cold weather is the release of histamine. “The release of histamine triggered by exposure to cold air or sudden temperature changes can cause the skin to itch, sting or even develop welts in some cases,” explains Dr Sophie Momen, consultant dermatologist at the Cadogan Clinic.

“Why do my legs get itchy after I’ve been for a walk in the cold?” A dermatologist explains