Eczema is a skin condition that makes your skin itchy, red, and sometimes swollen. It can also cause dryness, flakiness, and even blisters. People with eczema often have sensitive skin, meaning it’s easily irritated by things like soap, detergents, or even certain foods. Eczema can come and go, with flare-ups happening when the skin gets irritated or exposed to triggers like stress, allergens, or weather changes.
How Eczema Starts And Its Symptoms?
Eczema often starts in childhood but can persist into adulthood. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. As the condition progresses, other symptoms may develop.
The main symptoms of eczema include:
- The itching can be intense and persistent, leading to scratching, which can further irritate the skin and cause it to thicken over time.
- The affected skin may appear red or inflamed, especially during flare-ups.
- Eczema can cause the skin to become dry, rough, and scaly, particularly in areas prone to moisture loss like the hands, arms, and legs.
- A rash may develop, consisting of small bumps, patches of rough skin, or fluid-filled blisters that can ooze and crust over.
- The skin affected by eczema may develop cracks or fissures, which can be painful and may increase the risk of infection.
- The affected skin may appear darker or lighter than the surrounding skin due to inflammation or changes in pigmentation.
Eczema In Summer
In summer, eczema can become more challenging to manage because of the heat, humidity, and increased sweating. The combination of sweat and heat can lead to skin irritation and itching, making eczema flare-ups more common. Additionally, exposure to sunlight can provoke eczema symptoms for some people. Swimming in chlorinated pools or salt water can also irritate the skin, causing dryness and itching. It’s important to take extra precautions during the summer months to protect the skin and manage eczema effectively.
Ways To Treat Eczema In Summer
Following are the 7 ways to treat eczema in summer:
Stay Cool and Hydrated
Keep cool in the summer heat to prevent sweating, which can irritate the skin. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can worsen eczema symptoms.
Wear Breathable Fabrics
Wear lightweight clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or linen. These fabrics allow the skin to breathe and reduce irritation from sweating.
Sun Protection
Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Sunburn can exacerbate eczema symptoms, so it’s essential to protect your skin from UV rays.
Moisturize Regularly
Apply moisturizer to your skin at least twice a day, especially after swimming or bathing. Choose a fragrance-free moisturizer that is gentle on sensitive skin.
Avoid Harsh Soaps and Cleansers
Use mild, fragrance-free soaps and cleansers when bathing or washing your hands. Harsh chemicals can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Take Short, Lukewarm Showers
Hot water can dry out the skin and worsen eczema symptoms. Instead, take short showers or baths with lukewarm water to prevent further irritation.
Manage Sweat and Chlorine Exposure
Rinse off sweat and chlorine after swimming to remove potential irritants from the skin. Showering immediately after swimming can help prevent chlorine-induced dryness and itching.
Eczema In Winter
During winter eczema can worsen due to the cold, dry air, and indoor heating. The low humidity levels in the air can lead to moisture loss from the skin, causing it to become dry, tight, and itchy. Additionally, frequent temperature changes between cold outdoor air and heated indoor environments can further irritate the skin. It’s essential to take extra care of your skin during the winter months to prevent eczema from worsening.
Ways To Treat Eczema In Winter
Following are the 7 ways to treat eczema in winter:
Use a Humidifier
Combat dry indoor air by using a humidifier to add moisture to the environment. This helps prevent skin from drying out and reduces eczema flare-ups.
Moisturize Frequently
Apply moisturizer to the skin several times a day, especially after bathing or washing hands. Buy thick, fragrance-free creams or ointments to lock in moisture and soothe dry, itchy skin.
Take Lukewarm Baths
Avoid hot showers or baths, as they can strip the skin of its natural oils and worsen eczema symptoms. Instead, take a bath in lukewarm water for shorter periods to prevent dryness.
Protect Your Skin
Wear gloves, scarves, and other protective clothing to shield your skin from cold winds and harsh weather conditions. This helps prevent moisture loss and reduces the risk of eczema flare-ups.
Choose Gentle Cleansers
Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers and soaps that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Avoid harsh chemicals and detergents, as they can irritate sensitive skin and exacerbate eczema symptoms.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out. Hydrated skin is less prone to dryness and itching, so aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.
Consult a Dermatologist
If eczema symptoms persist or worsen despite home remedies, consult a dermatologist for personalized treatment options. They can prescribe topical medications or recommend other therapies to manage eczema effectively during the winter months.
Final Thoughts
Managing eczema during both summer and winter requires a combination of targeted treatments. In summer, staying cool, protecting against sun exposure, and managing sweat is key, while winter demands extra moisturizing, protecting skin from harsh weather, and using humidifiers. Consistent skin care practices, such as gentle cleansing and hydration, coupled with lifestyle adjustments, help minimize eczema flare-ups and maintain skin health throughout the year.
Stay tuned to Trendytempo for more information about skin health treatments.
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