Summertime is on it’s way and that can spell trouble for people suffering from eczema. The sun can further dry out already irritated skin and the hot climate can cause sweat to exacerbate the condition. Below are a few summer prevention tips for warding off eczema rashes and flares!
- Sweat: When sweating, take cool showers to avoid irritation. It is very important that you avoid hot water, especially during bouts of severe eczema. Hot water will dry the skin out and leave the skin further irritated and itchy.
- Sunscreen: It is important to guard your skin against harmful UV rays (regardless of having eczema or not)! Choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. Be careful about which sunscreen you utilize, as many contain contact allergens. Some common contact allergens in sunscreens, include: oxybenzone, 4-isopropyl-dibenzoylmethane, PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), avobenzone, cinnamates and esters. Look for hypoallergenic alternatives free of these chemicals and fragrances, dyes and alcohols. If you suspect you are allergic to sunscreen, speak with a dermatologist for further skin protection care.
- Climate Control: Keep humidity around 40-50% in your home. Invest in a humidifier to accommodate this if needed. Run air conditioning or fans to keep the temperature of your home no hotter than between 68 and 74 degrees. Hot, dry climates can worsen the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
- Seasonal Allergies: Be proactive abut managing your seasonal allergies. Pollen allergies, including hay fever,
may trigger your eczema. To prepare your body for the onset, take an oral antihistamine before the season begins. It is not uncommon for antihistamines to cause drowsiness in some people. Taking one prior to bedtime is recommended. - Sun Wear: Dress in clothes that are loose fitting and made from breathable fabrics such as cotton. Other less irritating fabrics, include: silk, rayon and linen. However, linen and rayon tend to be warmer and better options for winter climates. When spending lengthy periods of time out in the sun, wear clothing that you can tolerate to block out rays.
- Moisturize: Summer weather can really dry out the skin. Moisturize with the TrueLipids Ultimate Eczema Kit for the best defense against eczema rashes and flares.
Remember to reapply sunscreen if you are swimming and don’t forget about your feet! Check out our other tips for getting your feet beach ready and enjoy your summer without the complications of dry, irritated skin!
