If you suffer from eczema you know that winter weather can trigger outbreaks. There are two specific conditions that increase during winter that cause eczema to flare up:
- Dry air: Cold, dry air makes it difficult for your skin to stay moisturized. Additionally, warm furnace heat in your house or workplace is also dry.
- Drastic temperature changes: Going from the warm heat of your car, office or house into the cold outdoors – and back again – shocks the skin into an outbreak.
- Follow these steps that can minimize the winter season’s effect on your eczema.
- Moisturize every day. Wash with a fragrance-free, moisture-rich soap and use a moisturizing cream or lotion after each shower. Reapply lotion as needed throughout the day.
- Use topical steroids. Try over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams or ointments. If they do not help, you may need a prescription-strength option that you can apply twice daily. It’s most helpful to use right after washing when the skin is still slightly damp.
- Take shorter, cooler showers. A long hot shower sounds nice on a cold day, until your eczema breaks out. Keep the water temperature warm, not hot, and limit the shower length.
- Humidify dry air. Forced-air heated homes can become extremely dry. Consider investing in a humidifier for your bedroom at night and any other rooms where you spend a good amount of time.
- Wear gloves outside. Even a short walk from the front door to the car is enough time for cold dry air to sap moisture from your hands.
- Wear comfortable fabrics. Although wool is a popular winter fabric because of its warmth, it more easily causes skin irritation. Stick with cotton and other soft fabrics.
With proper care and preparation eczema patients can enjoy the winter months both indoors and out.
