Winter Coping Strategies: Eczema

 

Brought to you by Kareela Community Pharmacy.

As winter weather starts to set in we see more & more eczema ( atopic dermatitis ) cases in the pharmacy.

Winter is a difficult time for our skin and eczema flare-ups related to changing air temperature & low humidity trouble many of our customers particularly on the hands and face .

Here’s some strategies and tips for coping with winter flare-ups.

Moisturise Regularly & Liberally

Frequent and generous use of a moisturiser is the cornerstone of a preventative strategy for eczema, particularly through the winter months.

At the pharmacy we have formulated an oil containing water based frequent use moisturiser that we have confidence in.

Ask us about it.

It’s inexpensive, cosmetically pleasant and provides the benefit of an oil based moisturiser suitable for adults and children.

Use Mild Skincare Products

With the changing temperatures of winter , skin becomes more sensitive and often skincare products used in other months can start to cause problems .

In the current environment of COVID-19 , with a focus on hand sanitiser & soaps containing harsh chemicals, we’re seeing plenty of atopic dermatitis on the hands.

Ask us about a soap alternative to achieve the same result with minimal trauma.

Get Some Vitamin D

Sunlight on skin causes vitamin D to be created .

In winter we get less sunlight and we’re more covered up so we get less of the vitamin D we need to repair damaged skin.

A review of a number of studies in 2016 suggests Vitamin D supplements can significantly improve the 2 symptoms of eczema.

While the sun is less intense in winter , people still need to use sunscreens as sunburn can further dry the skin making the eczema worse.

Eat Eczema-Friendly Food

Several studies have shown that people with atopic dermatitis may have their symptoms worsened by certain foods.

Common problem foods include shellfish, eggs & milk, but bear in mind this sort of change has only benefited a small percentage of the population of atopic dermatitis sufferers .

On the other hand, introducing foods that contain prebiotics may help reduce eczema symptoms.

Eczema in Children & Babies

Some of the techniques that have been effective for managing the winter eczema flare-up in children are as follows:

  • Moisturise with an oil-based moisturiser
  • Frequently check with your pharmacist for a suitable formulation that takes account of their especially sensitive skin
  • Use sunscreen, even in winter, to prevent excessive drying of the skin, be mindful of the ingredients though
  • Warm clothes when outside , gloves great & a scarf
  • Remove layers when inside Children take off their gloves , scarves , and boots when inside the house to avoid overheating and sweating.