Keeping Eczema Under Control In Cold Weather

When most parents think of seasonal eczema flare ups, they think of summer. Heat, sweating, sunburns, wind, and hours at play outdoors can all be triggers for eczema inflammation – but what about the cold season? 

The fact is that many kids experience just as much eczema in the autumn and winter as they do in the spring and summer, and we’re going to look at what you can do to help prevent the itch and inflammation.

Why Cold Weather Causes Eczema

During cold weather months, we have to bundle our kids up in extra layers and keep them tucked in extra tight at night. All of this bundling can cause the same heat-induced sweating that warm weather can cause. The fabrics we use in the winter tend to be less breathable than those we use in the summer so that they can retain more heat – another cause for sweating.

The cold weather can also challenge the skin by causing chapping and excess surface moisture that can actually dry out the deeper layers of the skin. Balmy, crisp winds and excess exposure to cold can stress the skin and cause it to become dried out and prone to inflammation in no time.

Another hidden way that cold weather can cause eczema flare ups is through common seasonal illness.

When the body is fighting off coughs and colds, it may be less able to fight off eczema flare ups, infections, and inflammation.

The use of heaters during the cold weather can also aggravate eczema and make itching worse.

The good news is that there are some simple things you can do to help minimize the negative effects of cold weather on your child’s eczema.

How To Cool Down Eczema During Cold Weather

Here are some simple ways that you can help yourself and your child stay scratch-free during the

autumn and winter months…

1. Try layering clothing instead of wearing just one bulky garment. A great layering technique for eczema is to start with a layer or two of breathable fabrics and then add any winter gear on top.This allows the skin to breathe while still trapping in heat.

• Use humidifiers alongside heaters during sleep. They help prevent the dry air that can be caused by heaters while not cooling your child down too much.
• Avoid making winter baths too hot. Keeping them lukewarm will help the skin retain important moisture.
• Use moisturizers and topical ointments just as much in the cold weather as you would in the hot.

Here's to a less eczema-filled winter!!