Believe it or not, about 10% of the population in the United States has eczema. While this common skin condition may worsen during the warmer weather, several summertime strategies can reduce uncomfortable flare-ups.
See Srinagesh Paluvoi, MD, FAAP, FACAAI, and our team at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates in Lansdowne or Gainesville, Virginia, to maintain healthy, itch-free skin during the warmer months and beyond.
Itchy, red, and irritated skin caused by eczema can be unpredictable. Some people have more flare-ups during the winter because of dry air, while others experience bothersome eczema symptoms during the warmer months. Common culprits may include:
The good news is that taking simple precautionary measures can keep your skin healthy and symptom-free all season long.
Here are a few simple ways to reduce flare-ups this summer:
If your skin is prone to dryness, consider showering in lukewarm water instead of hot water and moisturizing your skin often. Apply a moisturizer right after showering to maintain optimal hydration, and look for moisturizers specifically designed for eczematic or sensitive skin.
When shopping for cleansers and other skin care products, choose those that are fragrance-free and created for sensitive skin. Try fragrance-free and dye-free laundry detergent too, especially during the warmer months.
While you don’t have to avoid sweat sessions outdoors during the summer, it’s helpful to take a cool shower soon afterward. And don’t forget to moisturize.
Avoiding sunburn is highly important during the summer months, but not all sunscreens are created equal. Consider sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which can be less irritating than chemical-based alternatives.
Cotton materials are typically less irritating than silk, polyester, and other synthetic fabrics. Wearing 100% cotton, loose clothing also helps control sweat during the warmer times of the year.
Because stress and anxiety can trigger eczema flare-ups, consider relaxation techniques to maximize skin health this summer. Consider massage, yoga, meditation, tai chi, deep breathing, mindfulness, and other stress-reducing strategies.
If healthy habits alone don’t relieve all of your eczema symptoms, see Dr. Paluvoi for a personalized skin care treatment plan. He may recommend you try allergy pills, non-steroidal topical medications, topical corticosteroids, or prescribed oral medications that calm the immune system and keep inflammation at bay.
Follow up with our Allergy & Asthma Affiliates experts for long-term eczema symptom relief, regardless of the time of year. Our team offers extensive allergy testing and treats hives, immunodeficiency, sinus infections, chemical allergies, food allergies, and asthma, in addition to eczema.
Keep your eczematic skin itch-free year-round by contacting our office by phone or requesting an appointment at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates online today.
