5 Tips for Managing Eczema this Winter
Winter is such a magical time of year! There's snow and lights, fun and festivities, and soooo much food!!
But you know what's not magical about winter?
Eczema!
For eczema sufferers, winter can actually be the WORST time of year (believe me, I know)! The cold weather leaves my skin particularly dry, flaky and prone to flare-ups. And that's the last thing I want to be worried about, especially over the holidays.Eczema can creep up in any season, but winter is especially rough on sensitive, eczema-prone skin.Cold air, central heating, hot baths and even certain fabrics dry out the skin, stripping away our natural oils. These oils create a barrier on the skin, protecting us from the outside world. However, when this moisture barrier is compromised, allergens and irritants can get through, resulting in the itchy, inflamed patches we know as eczema.It's hard to avoid these aspects of winter weather that dehydrate the skin. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to manage eczema and keep your skin happy and healthy this winter.
1. Moisturize!!!
I can't stress enough how important it is to keep your skin moisturized, especially during the cold weather months. And this goes for everybody! Unless you can migrate south for the winter, dry air inside and out is impossible to avoid. Keeping your skin hydrated and protected from the elements is one of your best defenses against unpleasant symptoms.Having a good quality moisturizer is key. And I don't mean one of those scented lotions that last for a hot minute. These can actually irritate sensitive skin. Instead, try a thicker, more hydrating cream or ointment. These not only soothe dry, itchy skin, but also help repair the skin's barrier function.Look for these hydrating ingredients when choosing a moisturizer:
- Petrolatum
- Silicone derivatives (such as dimethicone)
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Ceramides
- Fatty acids
My favorite moisturizer for eczema is Eucerin Original Healing Rich Cream. I've been using it for years and it's the first thing I reach for when I feel any symptoms of eczema or dry skin in general. The company also has a newer eczema-specific cream that I plan to try. But there are many other dermatologist-recommended moisturizers that you can try as well.Apply your moisturizer right out of the shower to really lock in moisture, for longer lasting hydration. And if you suffer from eczema outbreaks on your hands like me, I've found that wearing cotton gloves over my cream keeps my skin moisturized for much longer. I usually do this at night and it does wonders for any dry patches on my hands.
2. Use a humidifier
When the temperature drops, so does the humidity. The air is already very dry during the winter and once the heater gets turned on, say goodbye to any moisture! A humidifier helps to add moisture back into the air and reduce the drying effect on your skin.Another option is to place a bowl of water in your room to increase the humidity. With either option, be sure to change the water regularly to avoid bacteria growth, which could further exacerbate eczema symptoms.
3. Add probiotics
Eczema isn't just a skin condition. For many, it's a sign of a deeper problem within.Research shows that eczema may, in fact, be an autoimmune disorder. Minor triggers or irritants that are usually harmless cause an extreme inflammatory reaction in those of us with eczema, causing the immune system to attack the skin (source).With 80% of our immune system located in our gut, probiotics help to address this root cause by protecting against immune dysfunction and reducing inflammation.There are many varieties of probiotics on the market. Look for a high-quality supplement with 5 to 100 billion CFU (colony-forming units). Also make sure it contains the bacteria strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacteria, as these have been shown to support skin health. I've used the Primal Defense Ultra Probiotic (recommended by my doctor) made by Garden of Life and had good results.You can also get your probiotics from fermented foods like sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi and yogurt. These foods are a natural source of good bacteria that you can easily incorporate into your diet.
4. Adjust your diet
For most of us winter isn't the healthiest time of year. It's hard to resist the holiday goodies and treats, but the food you're eating may be contributing to your skin woes. Certain foods trigger eczema symptoms and cause sensitive, winter skin to break out even more.As much as possible, stick to a diet of whole foods, organic fruits and vegetables, and quality meats. Load up on nutrient-dense foods and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid processed and inflammatory foods like gluten, corn, dairy, soy, and (it pains me to say…) sugar!Many people with eczema actually suffer from underlying food allergies or sensitivities. Uncovering any foods that trigger your eczema can be a game changer for effectively managing or even eliminating your symptoms. To find out if food intolerance is the cause of your eczema, try an elimination diet. Cut out all foods that may trigger eczema for a period of time. Then gradually reintroduce those foods back into your diet and note their effect on your skin.
5. Reduce stress
With all the gifts, the decorating, and the traveling, getting ready for the holiday festivities can be extremely stressful. And this can take a toll on your skin.Many people find that their eczema worsens when under stress or anxiety. The body is on high alert, experiencing a "fight or flight" response. Stress hormones are released leaving you vulnerable to inflammatory chemicals and weakened immunity, which can increase symptoms of eczema.Don't forget to take care of yourself this winter. Reduce stress by planning ahead and practicing mindfulness in the midst of the chaos. Your skin will thank you!I hope these tips help you stay eczema-free this winter!
So tell me…Do you suffer from eczema or dry skin?
How do you keep your skin healthy during the winter?