Tips on how to Manage Eczema During the Summer
Eczema is a chronic, inflammatory condition of the skin barrier. It is characterized by dry, itchy and inflamed skin that can occur in response to various triggers. Anyone who has issues with inflammation or eczema-prone skin understands how flare-ups can be easily triggered by hot, humid weather. Here are some ideas on how to keep your skin happier during the summer heat:
1. Bathe Daily
Bathing daily is essential for keeping the skin free from potential summertime irritants, such as pollen, sunscreen, bugspray, chlorine, and even sweat. It’s important to keep showering time limited to 10 minutes or less and use lukewarm water. Hot water can be very drying to the skin. If you have hard water, you may want to consider adding a water softener because hard water can be irritating to the skin. After bathing, it is crucial to apply a moisturizer within a couple minutes to lock in the moisture and prevent the skin from drying out. Heavier, oil-based moisturizers are going to provide your skin with longer lasting hydration. Abby Rose Soothe-X Balm™ is an oil-based moisturizer that contains plant-based oils and Shea Butter which effectively protect the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
2. Choose the Right Sunscreen
Mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc dioxide or titanium dioxide tend to be the best choice for those with sensitive skin or eczema. Sunscreens that contain oxybenzone, parabens and fragrances should be avoided as they can cause skin irritation and allergies. Another great option is to wear UV protective clothing.
3. Stay Hydrated
Staying properly hydrated is important in order to avoid dehydration during those hot summer days. Ample hydration can improve overall skin health and prevent excessive dryness, which can exacerbate eczema symptoms. Aim for at least 8 glasses of filtered water everyday or more if you are active.
4. Avoid Harsh Soap and Cleaners
Harsh soap and cleaners can strip away the natural oils from the skin, exacerbating the symptoms of eczema and other skin irritations. Soothe-X Soap was created specifically for those with dry, sensitive skin. It is formulated with all organic, plant-based ingredients and contains no fragrances, sulfates, preservatives, or dyes. The ultra-moisturizing oils and butters leave the skin feeling soft and soothed.
5. Wear Loose Fitting Clothes
Wear breathable, lightweight clothing that doesn’t rub or adhere tightly to the skin. If your skin is itchy, this will further aggravate it especially if you are hot. Opt for clothes that are loose and flowing.
6. Don’t Wear Wet Clothes for Long
Wearing wet clothing can aggravate eczema, leading to increased itching and further irritation. It will create a warm and humid environment, which can promote the growth of bacteria or fungi making the skin more susceptible to irritation and infection.
7. Rinse Off Immediately After Swimming
For some people with eczema, chlorine can cause a worsening of the condition. If that’s the case, it’s a good idea to rinse the chlorine off the skin as soon as possible to prevent further irritation. Chlorine can be especially drying to the skin, so it is recommended to apply more moisturizer than usual after swimming. Some sources also suggest applying a thicker than normal layer of an emollient-type moisturizer to act as a barrier against the chlorinated water while swimming. Abby Rose Moisture Lock or Soothe-X™ Balm are two excellent choices for that purpose. If you are swimming outdoors, apply the emollient moisturizer 30 minutes prior to sunscreen to ensure it is fully absorbed in order to prevent diluting down the sunscreen.
8. Use National Eczema Association Accepted Skin Care
Choosing products that have undergone the process of obtaining the National Eczema Association Seal of Approval™ are generally safer choices for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. These clinically tested and dermatologist accepted skin care are usually hypoallergenic and non-irritating, providing effective hydration and moisturization to soothe dry, itchy skin. Additionally, NEA accepted sunscreens are also available making them ideal choices for your summertime skin care routine.
Why Choose Abby Rose
The Abby Rose Soothe-X line of products includes a gentle, organic soap, balm and oil. The products come in a handy skin care pack, but can also be purchased individually. All three products are plant-based and contain sunflower oil, which can help bring symptomatic relief to inflamed skin. They are ultra-moisturizing, protective of the skin barrier, can help soothe inflammation-prone skin and do not contain steroids, preservatives or fragrances. The Soothe-X products are accepted by the National Eczema Association, so you can feel good knowing these products have been clinically tested and were formulated to be gentle on sensitive, inflammation-prone skin.
