Are you one of those people who deal with icy cold hands throughout the winter season? Or perhaps you’ve been invited to a winter wedding and you’re dreading the idea of ​​wearing a heavy shawl or overcoat over your beautiful saree or lehenga, which could dull your perfectly curated look. Don’t worry, because there is a simple yet effective solution to these winter challenges – warming lotion.

Also available in balms and creams, these products are designed to provide an instant feeling of warmth to the skin. Whether you’re braving a cool evening or need a discreet way to stay warm during a formal event, warming lotion can help. By applying a small amount of it on your skin, you can enjoy the much-needed warmth that comforts you in the nail-biting cold.

These warming lotions may seem like ordinary creams until you apply them. They create a feeling of warmth and that particular part of the body starts feeling hot. They are especially beneficial for cold-sensitive parts of the body, such as hands and feet, where warmth is needed most.

How do they work?

Are you also wondering why these creams create a warming effect on your skin? Well, menthol and capsaicin are the main ingredients in this case.

“Warming creams contain specific ingredients like capsicum extract, menthol, or certain essential oils that create a warming sensation on the skin. These components improve blood circulation in the applied area, creating a feeling of warmth,” says Dr Ruby Sachdev, consultant – aesthetic physician, Gleneagles Hospital, Bengaluru.

These lotions, essentially, stimulate sensory receptors in the skin causing a warming effect.

“Active ingredients include capsaicin, menthol, or camphor. These interact with nerve endings in the skin, causing a heat response. Capsaicin increases blood flow to the applied area, which produces heat. Menthol produces a cooling effect initially, but may then have a warming effect. It helps to relax muscles, soothe stress and relax at cool temperatures,” explains Dr Shivani Yadav, Consultant – Dermatology, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Gurugram.

Warming lotions are popular in the West, and are being made by Indian brands as well. Skincare brand Clensta, endorsed by Parineeti Chopra, has a product in this range. They use ingredients like ginger oil and vanillyl butyl ether to create a warming effect.

Are they safe to use?

Dermatologists say these creams are mostly harmless, but a patch test is always advised.

Additionally, people with sensitive skin, pre-existing skin conditions, or allergies should exercise caution, as these creams can sometimes cause irritation, redness, or discomfort.

patch test

“In general, if winter warming cream is applied correctly most people do not need to worry, but caution should always be exercised. They usually contain capsaicin or menthol, which makes the skin feel as if it is being heated. It can sometimes cause irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive skin. A patch test must be performed before full application. Use them with great care on broken or inflamed skin,” suggests Dr. Yadav.

avoid sensitive areas

Dr. Sachdev suggests not applying warming lotion on broken skin, near the eyes, or on mucous membranes.

follow instructions

Read the content and buy from reputed brands. Always read the package to use the recommended amount and avoid overuse.

Winter warming creams may be beneficial in providing temporary relief and comfort during cold weather. But individuals with sensitive skin, pre-existing skin conditions or allergies should exercise caution, as these creams can sometimes cause irritation, redness or discomfort.

If you notice irritation, itching or prolonged redness, it is better to stop using the product immediately. In case of allergy problem, immediately consult a dermatologist.