Skin problems have a way of flaring up during certain seasons, which is certainly the case with eczema. For some sufferers of this common skin condition — eczema affects nearly 32 million people in the United States — summer is the culprit. For equally as many people with eczema, winter is a more challenging time.
Since we’re coming up on the colder months, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Juan-Carlos Caballero and our team of skin health experts at Warrenton Dermatology & Skin Therapy Center want to share some great best practices for managing eczema during colder weather.
When you have eczema, it’s incredibly important to support your skin in every way possible, especially when it comes to keeping it well hydrated and moisturized. Skin can struggle with staying moisturized in the winter thanks to conditions both inside and outside — harsh weather outdoors and indoor heating systems that further dry out skin.
So, one of the most important steps people with eczema can take in the winter is to use the right skin care products, which means using products that are oil-based.
Most lotions are alcohol-based, which isn’t a great way to lock in moisture. Instead, look for creams and ointments that contain more oil than alcohol, choosing products that are infused with lipids and ceramides to help strengthen your skin barrier. Click here for more information on moisturizing tips for people with eczema.
Hot showers, baths, and hot tubs can really dry out your skin, which can lead to an eczema flare-up. All year long — including through the winter, when you may be tempted to take a hot shower — we suggest keeping your showers and baths lukewarm so that they don’t rob your skin of much-needed moisture.
Further, when you get out of your shower or bath, moisturize right away to trap as much water in your skin as possible.
If you use heat during the winter, we suggest also using a humidifier inside your home, especially in areas where you spend the most time, such as the living room and bedroom. By infusing the air with moisture, this practice can help keep your skin from drying out.
Most people with eczema have atopic dermatitis, which affects one in 10 people. With atopic dermatitis, your skin reacts easily to outside influences, and your clothing definitely qualifies.
During the winter, we strongly suggest that you avoid putting certain fabrics close to your skin, such as wool and nylon. Instead, look for natural cotton products, which are smoother and less irritating.
One of the fastest roads to an eczema flare is lingering in wet or sweaty clothing, which can occur just as frequently in winter as it does in the summer. To avoid an eczema flare and keep your skin protected, always swap out wet clothing for drier garments.
If you have more questions about managing winter eczema flare-ups or you’d like a more personalized eczema management plan, contact Warrenton Dermatology & Skin Therapy Center in Warrenton, Virginia, at 540-341-1900 today. You can also request an appointment online via our texting app at your convenience.
