If you suffer from eczema, you know how winter can really aggravate the condition. While you may not be able to get rid of the annoying dryness and itching sensation altogether, there are steps you can take to prevent how the dry, winter weather affects your skin. Whilst having a consultation with a specialist clinic like the London Dermatology Centre is one god option, you can also use the tips and information here to take matters into your own hands.
1. Wear Gloves Outdoors
Eczema on your hands may result in blisters, peeling and deep, painful cracks on your hands. If you want to help prevent this type of damage from the cold weather, then you need to protect your hands at all times. This means that you wear gloves when you are going outside. It is a good idea to wear gloves everyday during the winter to help protect the skin from the environment. This will also help your skin retain moisture. However, when choosing gloves, forego using wool gloves, because these can be irritating and itchy for hands that are prone to eczema breakouts. A better option is to choose leather.
2. Turn On Your Humidifier
There are quite a few modern heating systems that not only heat up the inside air, but they also dry it out. This can result in your hands drying out and exacerbate cases of eczema. If you want to fight against dryness and try to counter the dry air that is inside of your home, then you should run a humidifier. You can place this in your bedroom at night, as well as any other rooms where you may plan on spending time.
3. Moisturize Often
One of the absolute best ways to help combat eczema is to moisturize often. The fact is, when you moisturize regularly, can reduce cases and symptoms related to eczema. During the colder months of the year, make sure that you are using a thicker cream. Also, be sure to apply your cream of choice within three minutes of stepping out of the shower.
4. Limit Your Time in the Bath
You should consider starting a new bathing routine during the winter months. By sticking to shorter, warm showers and baths during the colder months of the year, you can help reduce eczema breakouts. If you know that your condition usually shows up when it is cold out, then you should make sure to plan ahead. You can reduce the amount of time you spend in the bath or shower and avoid baths and showers that are extremely hot. While they may feel great when it is cold out, the hot water can really hurt your skin and remove the oils that are there to keep it hydrated.
5. Skip the Use of Harsh Soaps
If you have eczema, the best thing you can do is stick to gentle cleansing products. During the summer, your skin may be able to tolerate the harsher anti-bacterial soaps. However, when the winter months arrive, you need to make the switch to a non-soap cleanser. Try to find products that have been labeled as a body bar or face cleanser, and avoid items that have “soap” in the name. The fact is, a large number of soap products are going to be harsher on the skin. Also, make sure to wear outdoor gear and clothing that is washed in a detergent that is free from fragrances.
While you may not be able to completely prevent eczema flare ups, there are steps that you can take to help reduce their severity and keep your skin healthy and nourished during the colder months of the year. When you use the information above, you will be able to enjoy the winter months, without having to worry about eczema hurting or affecting your skin and causing you pain and discomfort.
Author Bio
Jennifer Carson is a professional freelance writer currently works at GlobexOutreach . She has a vast portfolio of work in a wide variety of industries, from article writing and ghostwriting to online content creation and marketing writing. Over the course of her impressive career, she has worked for a huge array of clients, from small start-ups to multinational corporations. She brings to the table a unique combination of talent, skill, experience and a unique writing voice that is adaptable to meet the need of any client. No matter what the writing project, Jennifer can handle it with panache!
