Fall is the season for drinking warm spiced lattes and enjoying rides through the pumpkin patch. However, fall is no fun if you suffer from itchy rashes. It’s no secret that the climate greatly affects the skin, and for many, cold weather triggers eczema flare-ups. Want to learn more about how fall weather can aggravate eczema and you can prevent further irritations? Well, keep on reading.
Why Does Eczema Get Worse in the Fall?
Dry Air
The air in the colder months tends to be drier because of the low level of humidity. This makes your skin feel even more parched and prevents it from retaining moisture. Also, indoor heating systems can also dry out your skin leaving you prone to eczema flares.
Exposure to Harsh Temperatures
Between the cold winds and the dry air blowing from your heater, your skin loses moisture and dries out very quickly which makes your eczema worse.
Irritating Fabrics
We all have that one super warm and cozy wool sweater that we can’t live without. Well, that beloved sweater could cause an itchy eczema rash because of it’s coarse fabric.
Hot Baths and Showers
There’s nothing more relaxing than coming home and warming up with a hot bubble bath. However, if you have eczema this could spell a night of endless itching afterward for hot water is a potential trigger. How exactly? Submerging your body in hot water rapidly changes your body temperature which aggravates eczema.
Heavy Layers/Overdressing
While packing on layers of clothing makes a fall fashion statement, it could also be making eczema worse. Why? Overdressing causes you to sweat. Through sweating, your skin loses moisture and the sodium from sweat dries out your skin even more.
Bonfires and Fireplaces
Nothing says fall like snuggling up in front of a fireplace or toasting marshmallows on an open fire. Though, beware of the smoke because it is a major allergen and could irritate your skin, especially if you suffer from eczema.
Tips for Managing Eczema in the Fall
Moisturize Vigilantly
If you suffer from eczema, it is recommended that you use products that are not only designed to moisturize but help relieve itch. The Sebamed Dry Skin Relief Face Cream with 5% Urea deeply moisturizes and also relieves irritation and itchiness. Also, the Sebamed Hydrating Body Milk is perfect for moisturizing all areas of your body, leaving it supple and protected from dehydration.
Avoid Irritating Fabrics
You can still enjoy the sweater weather without wool. Opt for softer fabrics like synthetic and cotton which are non-irritating to eczematous skin.
Use Gentle Soap and Cleansers
Many harsh soaps on the market strip your skin of its moisture, leaving you prone to eczema flare-ups. Therefore, you should use a soap or cleanser that won’t dry your skin. The Sebamed Liquid Face and Body Wash is free of harsh chemicals and will leave your skin feeling clean without feeling raw and tight.
Purchase a Humidifier For Your Home
You may not be able to control the air conditions outside but you can change the quality of air in your home. Eliminate dry air by using a humidifier. It is recommended that you keep the humidity level in your home between 45 to 55 percent.
Now, you can face fall weather without worrying about dry and itchy eczema rashes. Make sure you’re equipped for the cooler months with the Complete Sebamed Classic Set — including everything you need to brave the cold.