The leaves are changing and the crisp fall air is settling in. The vibes are immaculate, between cozy sweaters and pumpkin-flavored treats. However, for those suffering from eczema, this seasonal transition can bring more than colorful leaves — it can also trigger uncomfortable skin flare-ups.
While it’s manageable, the shift from the warmth of summer to the cooler, drier air of fall can aggravate symptoms. Don’t let the chronic condition control you. Keep your skin calm and healthy by understanding common fall triggers, the best skincare routine, and elevated treatments to help you confidently manage eczema as the weather changes. The only things red and dry this year will be the leaves falling from the trees.
Why Eczema Flares Up In The Fall
To understand the treatment of autumnal eczema flare-ups, it’s important to first know why they happen: There are a few notable reasons: dry air, temperature fluctuation, allergies, and even fashion can contribute.
As the temperature drops, so does humidity. The cold, dry air outside and increased use of indoor heating can strip moisture from your skin, leaving it vulnerable to itching, cracking, and flare-ups. This quick shift in temperature from outside to inside can disrupt the skin barrier.
Additionally, Fall brings a surge of allergens like ragweed, mold, and dust mites. These common allergens can trigger inflammation and make eczema symptoms worse. Finally, while fall fashion can be cozy and fun, materials like wool and synthetic fabrics can irritate sensitive skin and trigger eczema flare-ups.
How to Build Your Skincare Routine for Fall Eczema
Keeping your skin healthy in the fall requires a tailored approach. Here are our dermatologist-approved tips to help you stay comfortable and flare-free:
Moisturize More
The most important thing you can do for fall eczema is keep your skin hydrated. Switch to a richer moisturizer containing ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, which help lock in moisture and restore the skin barrier. The thicker the moisturizer the more it locks into the skin
How To: Apply moisturizer immediately after showering or washing your hands to trap in moisture while your skin is still damp.
Go For Gentle Cleansers
This is not the season to grab for the exfoliating or chemical-heavy cleansers. Look for ones that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils with labels like “soap-free” and “pH-balanced.” Products with added moisturizers can also provide extra hydration, but always ensuring gentleness is your main objective..
Pro Tip: Shorten your showers! Hot water can dry out your skin, worsening eczema.
Protect Your Skin
Cold weather doesn’t do our skin any favors, but it’s especially true for those with eczema. Protect your skin by wearing soft, breathable fabrics like cotton that allow your skin to breathe. And of course, don’t forget to wear gloves to shield your hands from the cold — an all too common area for eczema flare-ups.
Fashion Advice: Layer a cotton shirt underneath your wool sweaters to keep the harsh fabrics from directly touching your skin.
Stay Hydrated Inside and Out
The air inside your home can become just as dry as the outside air in the fall, thanks to indoor heating. If you don’t have a humidifier, this is your sign to invest in one to keep moisture levels up inside.
As always, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water. Hydration is just as important for keeping your skin healthy.
When to Seek Professional Treatments for Eczema
While managing eczema is possible, we’re here for a reason. When at-home treatments aren’t cutting it, here’s how we can help.
Prescription Topicals
Prescription creams or ointments containing steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, or PDE4 inhibitors can reduce inflammation and control symptoms of more severe eczema.
Phototherapy
If your eczema doesn’t respond to topical treatments, phototherapy may be an option. It involves exposing your skin to ultraviolet (UV) light to reduce inflammation and itching.
Injectable & Oral Treatments
Sometimes, oral or injectable medications that target the immune system work wonders. These treatments, however, are reserved for more severe eczema.
–
The bottom line? Fall doesn’t have to be a season of discomfort. Take proactive steps to get ahead of the season and ensure your skin’s health. Eczema management is a journey and we’re here to help: (208) 888-0660!