Eczema and cold: How to protect Yourself The winter months for many people living with eczema can be especially difficult, as it changes temperature cause flare-ups of the condition.
Although not everyone gets worse with the first drop in temperature, the onset of symptoms does not take long. Its sudden changes caused by moving from warm indoor spaces to cold air and vice versa are the main risk factor.
A study published in Clinical and Experimental Dermatology confirmed this seasonal variation in eczema symptoms in a group of UK children, showing that they are indeed more likely to flare up in cold weather, as opposed to summer. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to prevent such a development.
“This sudden increase in symptoms occurs because the skin barrier is disrupted. The prevailing cold conditions cause dehydration of the skin, causing it to lose its cohesion. In addition to the loss of moisture, insufficient replenishment either due to occasional application or use of inappropriate moisturizing products for the season, as well as the choice of clothes that cause irritation are the factors that contribute to the exacerbation of eczema. The gradual adaptation to colder atmospheric temperatures, the change in the care routine at the beginning of winter and the choice of fabrics that do not irritate the skin are protective measures to avoid flare-ups”, explains Dermatologist – Venereologist Dr. Christos Stamou.
Eczema is one inflammatory, non-infectious, hereditary and chronic skin disorder which affects children and adolescents and usually persists into adulthood. It is most often seen in infants or very young children. It often begins in the first year of life and most often appears before the age of 5. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 20% of children and infants worldwide have eczema. It is not known exactly what causes it, but it appears to be related to the environment, genes and the immune system. It is considered an allergic disease, which means that the body overreacts to external irritants.
In a nutshell, eczema could be described as dry, rashy and itchy skin. The lack of cohesion makes it more vulnerable to skin infections from bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Symptoms can appear at any time, especially in hands and feet, arms and the back of the knees. Identifying triggers is difficult as there is variation between sufferers. Weather, diet and clothing are common reasons for flare-ups in winter.
But this season does not have to equate to suffering for children and adults. To minimize flare-ups and soothe irritated skin, eczema sufferers can try the following:
- Temperature maintenance
Patients can reduce flare-ups by avoiding sudden changes in temperature. To achieve this goal, the skin should be protected from the cold when leaving the heated areas by wearing warm clothes, gloves, scarves and hats.
The same applies when entering indoor spaces. Sufferers should avoid immediately putting their hands on the radiator/air heater or taking very hot showers after entering the house.
- Moisture retention
Moisture plays an important role in preventing eczema flare-ups. Heating removes moisture from the air, and this effect is offset by using a humidifier or placing a bowl of water near a heat source.
The same goes for the skin. Moisturizing it with thicker moisturizers and regularly applying generous amounts protects the skin and helps to restore it.
- Removal of irritants
The necessary maintenance of heat in the interior motivates the avoidance of ventilation. However, this tactic irritates the skin, since dust mites multiply. Also, in winter pets stay inside for longer hours and hair, which is a known irritant, accumulates. Therefore, daily ventilation and cleaning of the home and workplace is required.
- Proper cleansing of the skin
Frequent hand washing and the use of disinfectant, which has been established in recent years after the outbreak of the pandemic, is harmful to the skin of people with eczema. That is why patients should intensify their efforts to keep the skin in good condition. This involves using milder soaps, which do not contain many chemicals and fragrances, and lukewarm water.
- Selected diet
By adopting a diet suitable for people with eczema, the chances of flare-ups can be reduced. For example avoiding milk, eggs and shellfish and including prebiotics helps. A nutritionist can recommend the appropriate menu, personalizing it to the needs, the seasons and the allergies that often coexist in people with eczema.
- dress code
Choosing very warm clothing to keep warm is not the best choice for those with eczema, as it causes sweating, which is a trigger for symptoms. Fabrics that do not allow the skin to breathe, are hard and rough, those that include synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon and spandex should be avoided.
Skin-friendly fabrics made from natural materials that are soft, ‘breathable’ and absorbent, such as cotton, silk and bamboo (and for some merino wool) can warm the body while protecting the skin.
“Despite these measures, it is possible that the symptoms will reappear or worsen. Adjusting the treatment by the dermatologist can shorten their duration and make them milder and painless. There are topical corticosteroids and for more severe cases oral or biologic medications that suppress inflammation and provide relief.
Phototherapy either alone or in combination with drugs gives excellent results, in a non-invasive way. It is suitable for children and adults with moderate to severe eczema, but should not be used in people with UV sensitivity or photoallergy. Certain forms of phototherapy are also indicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
This particular treatment works by targeting the skin’s overactive immune response to reduce those itchy, irritated red or darker patches caused during flare-ups.
It is effective, safe and painless, which in addition to eczema is used to treat other skin diseases, such as psoriasis and vitiligo.
Therefore, in winter, eczema patients do not have to suffer. Knowledge and implementation of preventive measures will protect them from annoying symptoms”, concludes Dr. Stamou.