Back to School Eczema Strategies

As the weather turns colder and kids head back to school, here are some tips for keeping eczema under control.

Cold Weather Troubles
The good news about cool weather is that itching is often less severe when it is cooler. But cold weather most often brings with it more troubles than relief for eczema patients. Moisture leaves the skin more rapidly, leading to dryness and irritation. Because of this, as fall approaches, be sure to moisturize often. Bring lotion and emollients to work and school and apply them regularly.

When the heaters kick on, this can be very drying to your skin. Running humidifiers through the winter can help or consider having one installed on your heater. Try bringing a small humidifier to the office if at all possible. Also, try not to overheat your home. An extra sweatshirt will be much nicer on your skin than another degree on your thermostat. And again, use lots of moisturizers!

Eczema-free Fashion
Winter clothing can also be trouble for eczema. Wool, for instance, causes flare-ups in many patients. It took me awhile to realize I was having this reaction to wool, but now that I have eliminated it from my wardrobe, it has reduced the number of flare-ups I get in the winter. Tighter, warm clothing can also lead to flare-ups. Try to wear loose cotton clothes whenever possible...even if this is just when you are at home!

Hair dryers can also be drying, not just for your scalp, but your hands and neck, as well. This can again irritate eczema. Try to minimize use and keep the heat away from your skin as much as possible. Certain shampoos and conditioners, such as Free & Clear are unlikely to have irritants. And DHS zinc shampoo has helped my itchy scalp before.

Sports and Your Skin
Back-to-school often means the start of fall sports. Sweat aggregates many eczema patients. Try to wipe of excess sweat and shower as soon as possible after work-outs. Immediately out of the shower, apply emollients. Drinking lots of water may also help hydrate your skin and reduce flare-ups. Try to exercise in cotton clothes that do not rub and irritate your skin anywhere. And if playing on a grassy field, try to avoid sitting stretches on the grass if the grass is a trigger for you, as it is for me.