Easy Tips for Managing Eczema This Summer
Don’t let eczema hold you back this summer. Follow these top tips from dermatologists and skincare specialists. Eczema is common and something many people deal with. As summer is around the corner, those suffering from eczema may begin to feel anxious about getting the most out of summer without being self-conscious about how their skin looks. Although many eczema cases are mild, some are extreme. However, individuals can use these tips as they face the reality of summer. When eczema clients seek relief, they seek professional advice from a reputable dermatologist. Hydrate to Counter the Effects of Heat and Humidity
Hydration is key to managing eczema during the summer. Drinking water and using lotions and other hydrating products can help minimize the effects of the hot summer sun and intense humidity in places like Atlanta. Once the skin is moist, it attracts dirt and impurities from the air, worsening its condition. The key is to have clean, hydrated skin all summer long. Don’t skip skincare routines and quality products to get the best results
Keep lotions and gels in the refrigerator for a cooling sensation, and wear loose clothing, especially if dealing with a sunburn. Nothing feels as good as cool aloe gel on an overexposed and red shoulder! Cooling towels are another way to keep skin cool and moist; try not to let sweat sit on the skin. Cold water face splashes followed with some moisturizer can do wonders in the middle of the day. Working men and women who wear makeup can find spritzers that mist water on the face and don’t remove makeup or cause it to run. Today, we are fortunate because so many products were unavailable a decade ago that are available to hydrate skin!
Drink plenty of water. The value of keeping the body hydrated can’t be overstated. Our bodies are made up of 50-70% water, averaging 60%. That means that when our bodies do not have enough water, our organs and skin begin to show signs of stress, which can manifest in acne breakouts, dry skin, rashes, and eczema.
Treating Skin to Manage Eczema
There are some easy tips for eczema care this summer, and they have to do with keeping skin cool. Showering or bathing after extreme heat or overheating can be a quick way to cool the body down. If the body gets too hot, the skin will begin to react. Some people may experience rosacea, blistering, or rashes. Keep cool clothes on and wear natural fabrics whenever possible. Materials that cause the body to sweat may not be the best thing for someone dealing with symptoms of eczema. Those suffering from eczema may have difficulty finding sunscreen that protects them and moisturizes the skin. Sunscreen products like zinc tend to dry the skin. Those who experience eczema year-round and know what is coming in the hot and humid summer months can work with a local dermatologist who specializes in eczema treatments to find the best products to minimize the symptoms of eczema and keep skin clear!
Removing Salty Sweat from the Skin
When people sweat, they get salty. Salt is a known drying agent; when the skin is covered in sweat and dries, salt remains. If you are working out or just in the heat and sweating, it is best to rinse it off and not let the sweat dry on the skin. The worst thing an individual with eczema can do is leave salt on the skin to dry it out further – they use salt to dry our beef jerky, for goodness’ sake! Instead of heading straight to smoothies with friends after the gym, shower at the gym or use a washcloth to clean behind the knees, in the elbows, and other areas affected by eczema. If you have eczema, treat those spots with extra care. The summer’s heat and humidity will mean an ongoing effort to counter the weather and keep skin hydrated for those dealing with dry skin and eczema.
After rinsing off, showering, or jumping in the pool, use moisturizer while the skin is still damp. When products are applied before the skin is completely dry, the moisturizer can penetrate the skin more easily and last longer. Putting lotion on dehydrated skin can absorb quickly and leave the skin feeling dry. Using water on the skin to encourage deeper penetration of the product is an easy tip that gives the skin a super boost of hydration!
If you live in Atlanta and are just starting to think about how you want to successfully embrace this summer, contact Dr. Sherrie Straughn for an appointment. She loves helping new clients find affordable skincare solutions for conditions like eczema. Dr. Straughn is licensed in skin of color and understands people’s desire to have beautiful skin in the summertime. Buckhead Dermatology has the eczema solution for you this summer!