Our Favorite Summertime Eczema Care Tips

Do you have eczema? There’s no cure for your condition, but with proper treatment, it doesn’t have to affect your quality of life. 

Eczema often requires year-round care. Each season can present challenges. Weather and temperature are two environmental factors that affect eczema. Winter’s dry air makes dry skin crack and bleed, whereas summer heat makes you sweat, which can trigger itching and other symptoms. 

At Seacoast Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists provide expert eczema care throughout the year to help you avoid painful, itchy flare-ups. Here are tips to help you manage eczema during the summer months. 

Avoid getting sunburned 

Too much sun can trigger eczema. A sunburn leads to inflammation, which makes eczema worse. Always protect your skin when in the sun. Stores now carry stylish clothes with high sun protection factors (SPF). 

Carry your shade with you for beach activities. Use umbrellas with sun protection. Choose indoor activities when the sun is at its height. 

Choose a sunscreen for sensitive skin  

We can advise you on sunscreens that are safe for eczema patients. You should choose a hypoallergenic sunblock that offers a strong SPF. 

Your sunscreen should be free of alcohol and fragrances, as they’re problematic if you have sensitive skin. Look for a product with mineral-based ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Avoid those containing oxybenzone and avobenzone, allergens that can cause contact dermatitis.  

Stay hydrated 

When your skin is very dry, you can experience a flare-up. Drink water throughout the day by keeping a reusable water bottle handy. Moisturize your skin frequently. We can advise you on high quality moisturizers for sensitive skin. 

Keep your skin cool 

Sweat can trigger eczema. If it’s too hot for you to play tennis outdoors in the summer, see if you can find an indoor facility. When you sweat from sports or other physical activity, wash off the sweat as soon as you can. 

Avoid environmental triggers

Knowing what you’re allergic to really helps you control your symptoms. Get tested for allergies so you can take steps to ward off triggers that make your skin itch. 

Summer pollen producers include several types of grass such as Bermuda and bluegrass, along with a number of common weeds, among them, ragweed, tumbleweed, and Russian thistle. 

If you’re allergic to summer pollen, stay on an antihistamine that works for you. Learn when pollen and smog levels are highest and stay indoors during that time. Invest in an air purifier. 

If an allergy test shows that you’re allergic to dust mites, keep your bedding, blinds, and furniture free from dust.  

Wear loose, comfortable clothing 

Avoid wearing tight clothing, especially in the summer when sweat can build up easily. Stick to loose, lightweight cotton material that breathes. 

Call us at Seacoast Dermatology in Portsmouth, Exeter, or Dover, New Hampshire, or book an appointment online for expert eczema care.