Handling Eczema During the Summer Months

Usually, the cold outside air and dry inside heat of the winter season are associated with eczema flare-ups. For many people, cold winters are the culprit for severe bouts of itching. For others, it’s actually the heat, environmental allergens, and increased sun exposure of summer that bring eczema flare-ups. 

If that’s true for you, how do you keep the rashes and itching at bay while still being able to enjoy all the activities summer has to offer?

At Allergy and Asthma Institute of Southeast Michigan in Farmington Hills, Michigan, Chad W. Mayer, DO, FAAAAI, FAAP, and the rest of our team understand that dealing with severe eczema during the summer months can be frustrating. So, we’re highlighting some practical ways to protect your skin and enjoy the great outdoors in this month’s blog. 

Prioritize sun protection

Wearing sunscreen during the summer should always be a priority, but especially if you’re prone to eczema. Undue sun exposure and sunburns can trigger a flare-up, so if that’s the case for you, grab a sunscreen that has eczema-friendly ingredients and at least SPF 30. 

Also, make sure to wear clothing that protects your skin from the sun. Choose items made of light and breathable fabrics since heavy clothing in the summer may cause further eczema troubles. 

Manage excess sweating

Sweating is your body’s way of managing temperature and keeping you cool. Unfortunately, sweat contains a lot of chemicals, such as sodium, magnesium, and nickel that can irritate your skin. Sweat can also pool in areas of your body that don’t dry out very well (think armpits and elbows), making eczema flares even more likely. 

While it’s not possible to avoid sweating, it’s important to keep yourself cool as much as possible. You can do this by sticking to shaded areas while outside, wearing loose and lightweight clothing, keeping your house cool with fans, and drinking cold water throughout the day. 

If you’re going to be out in the sun for long periods, you can bring some towels to pat dry as you sweat. 

Be aware of chemicals

Swimming is a great way to stay cool during the summer months, but the chlorine in pool water and the salt in ocean water are going to affect your skin. After you’re done swimming, be sure to rinse the chlorine or salt off immediately, and moisturize afterward to keep your skin moisturized. 

Use an air purifier

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that’s often worsened by exposure to allergens. Environmental allergens, such as grass and tree pollen and ragweed, can run rampant in the summer, triggering your body to release histamine, which can cause an eczema flare. 

A great way to keep allergens to a minimum inside your home is to utilize an air purifier. It can remove the allergens and help keep eczema flares to a minimum.

To get some expert-level eczema relief in the summer, look to our team at Allergy and Asthma Institute of Southeast Michigan. Schedule an appointment with us by calling our office or booking online today.