Fall and Winter can be challenging for our skin, and eczema flare-ups are common during the cold months due to the long, cold nights and dry air.
What is an eczema flare-up?
It’s a return of the symptoms of eczema characterized by:
- Itchy, red skin
- Inflamed reddish-brown or gray patches on your arms, hands, chest, or neck
- Thickening and cracking of the skin
- Raised bumps that may crust or leak fluid
Try these tips to deal with eczema throughout the Fall and Winter:
1. Invest in a humidifier.
As the atmosphere dries, your skin gets drier. As a result, dermatologists recommend using a humidifier in your bedroom to provide moisture to the atmosphere.
2. Avoid drastic temperature shifts.
When the skin is exposed to drastic temperature changes, it becomes dry and irritated. “People with eczema flare-ups can get relief by avoiding sudden temperature changes,” mentions Lesley Ott, a certified nurse practitioner at Sanova Dermatology – Baton Rouge in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. When outside, keep your hands warm by wearing gloves, scarves, and caps.
3. Moisturize often
Heavier moisturizers like shea butter lotion are essential for maintaining eczema-free skin, especially in the cooler months. “If you do not mind having greasy skin, thick creams and ointments are best since they hold moisture for longer,” shares Ott.
4. Use mild skincare products
The skin gets extra sensitive when the weather changes in the winter. Harsh chemicals or scents in soaps and detergents can irritate delicate skin. To minimize irritation, choose natural or unscented skincare products like this Soteri eczema cream.
5. Get some vitamin D
During winter, the sun is less visible; hence the skin cannot produce enough Vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements can significantly reduce the symptoms of eczema and atopic dermatitis.
6. Use prescription ointments
Dermatologists offer many different types of creams, medications, and ointments for treating eczema. Even if people do not need prescription medications for eczema during the rest of the year, they can use them in the winter.
7. Natural remedies
According to the National Eczema Association, some patients may benefit from the following: acupuncture, coconut or sunflower seed oil on the skin, massage, or probiotics.
8. Wear layers
“Layering is a crucial technique for preventing eczema flare-ups in the winter,” notes Ott. People who dress in layers are better able to adjust to shifting temperatures.
9. Eat eczema-friendly foods
Certain foods like milk, shellfish, and eggs may worsen eczema symptoms in people with atopic dermatitis.
10. Minimize long showers
Eczema patients should take a five-minute shower with lukewarm water. Furthermore, tap water with a high mineral concentration might dry up the skin and aggravate eczema.
Contact Us
Are you experiencing eczema or rashes? Sanova Dermatology in Baton Rouge is here for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our approach to eczema treatment.
About Lesley Ott, FNP-C
Lesley is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and is licensed through the Louisiana State Board of Nursing. She has a long history working in healthcare, receiving degrees as a Licensed Practical Nurse in 2011, Bachelors of Science in Nursing in 2015, and Masters of Science in Nursing in 2020.
Lesley has almost 5 years of dermatology experience working as a Registered Nurse at Sanova Dermatology. Her experience includes working with medical and cosmetic dermatology patients and Mohs surgical patients. Her passion for connecting with and educating patients on prevention and treatment is a driving factor in her current practice. She is accepting new dermatology patients of all ages. Lesley is excited to be a part of your journey to achieve healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Read more & schedule with Lesley Ott, FNP-C at our Baton Rouge Location