We New Yorkers have the privilege of seeing every season, but we often see each season at full blast. That means our winters are equal parts wonderland and tundra.
This is a problem if you have eczema, as harsh, cold, dry air can trigger and worsen eczema.
But don’t panic. Whether this is your first true winter or you’ve been here for years, our dermatology specialists at Allure Dermatology are here with expert tips on managing your sensitive skin in some of the country’s most extreme weather.
Few things are more luxurious than a scorching hot bath or shower on a cold winter’s night. However, hot water quickly dries out your skin and causes eczema flare-ups.
We (and the National Eczema Association) recommend using lukewarm water instead and cutting your bathing sessions off at 15 minutes.
Once your bath or shower is over, have a post-bathing routine in place to lock in moisture. You should:
Walk us through your current routine and bathing habits, and we can show you where you can make improvements.
You may not be able to spend hours in your tub, but you can use the time you have to your advantage. Many of our patients add ingredients like oatmeal, gentle oils, and baking soda to their baths to support their skin barrier.
Your eczema-prone skin is much more sensitive to soaps and detergents, so we recommend selecting the most gentle products available. Those labeled “formulated for sensitive skin” are often the best choice.
Don’t worry if you’re overwhelmed by your choices. We can point you in the direction of our favorite sensitive skin-friendly products.
Moisturizing is crucial for managing eczema, especially during the winter months when the air is dry, and your indoor heaters are zapping the water out of the air.
We can help you find a thick moisturizer that’s more effective than regular lotion. If your eczema is severe, we may be prescribed a medicated lotion that contains hydrocortisone.
Moisturizers work best when applied daily and within 3 minutes of bathing.
Your clothing rubs up against your skin all day long and can exacerbate an eczema flareup. Natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, and silk are much easier on your skin than nylon and polyester.
This also applies to your bedding. Make sure your sheets and pillowcases are made from the most natural fibers.
Remember to bundle up when you head outside. Leaving your skin exposed to the elements almost guarantees an eczema flare-up.
Indoor heating is one of the many perks of modern life, but it deprives our homes and workplaces of the humidity our skin needs badly.
Invest in a humidifier (some are portable, and some double as an air purifier) to restore moisture to the air and nourish your parched skin.
Speaking of taking a drink…
Keeping your body hydrated can help keep your skin hydrated. The rule of thumb is to drink eight glasses of water a day. If you struggle to drink water, add lemons or other fruits to your glass to boost its flavor.
Researchers have discovered a link between your gut microbiome and your skin barrier. They believe an imbalanced microbiome can trigger inflammation and immune responses that manifest as eczema flare-ups.
We also recommend taking vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D has many health benefits, including a stronger immune system, reduced inflammation, and a stronger skin barrier. However, your body can’t make it on its own, so supplements are often the best way to make sure you’re getting enough.
Still need help managing your eczema? We’re here for you. Call or click to schedule a consultation with one of our dermatology specialists at our Hicksville, New York, office.
