First, take a close look at your skin-care products. Summer days should be spent sunbathing (with SPF), napping, barbecuing, and going to the beach, not itching, sweating, and itching again. If you have severe summer eczema, the latter is likely.
Monique Chheda, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MedStar Health, tells SELF that eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a set of chronic skin conditions that produce itchy rashes in individuals of different ages, skin types, genders, and races. It’s common: The National Eczema Association estimates 31 million Americans suffer from eczema.
Warmer weather’s increased moisture and sunshine help relieve eczema symptoms, unlike winter’s dry air that can cause flare-ups. Dr. Chheda believes sun, heat, humidity, sweat, and seasonal allergens like pollen may cause eczema in certain individuals. Itching, burning, and pain—not ideal summer vacations.
How can you decrease heat flare-ups? First, plenty of sunblock. Follow these summer eczema tips.
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Wash Your Face With A Gentle Cleanser Each Day
First, Carla T. Lee, MD, Ph.D., assistant professor of dermatology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, advises SELF that your cleanser should be soft enough for sensitive skin but strong enough to remove sweat from heat and humidity. A drugstore cleanser works for morning and night cleansing.
The National Eczema Association advises a fragrance-free, low-pH cleanser. Search the National Eczema Association’s product directory or packaging for “soap-free,” “pH-balanced,” or the seal. What is the best approach to locate anything that fits these criteria?
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Eczema requires a powerful daily moisturizer year-round. Dr. Chheda believes it keeps your skin barrier healthy and nourished. Ceramides and colloidal oatmeal soothe and repair body moisturizers.
Jami Miller, MD, associate professor of dermatology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, recommends a light cream or lotion containing a humectant like hyaluronic acid for your face. Avoid fragranced skin-care products, which may trigger eczema flare-ups.
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Turn To Prescription Topical Steroids
Topical steroids in cream, ointment, lotion, or spray form are the best treatments for itching, inflammation, and redness. “In summer, individuals don’t normally want to use a heavy, oily ointment, and we could modify the specific composition to a lighter cream,” Dr. Chheda explains.
Dr. Chheda advises using topical steroids once daily for a few weeks or as required during an eczema flare. She recommends using it after a
