Eczema treatment: Five expert tips to help soothe itchy eczema symptoms this winter
ECZEMA treatment: Itchy, irritating and sore skin conditions like eczema can worsen in the winter, as the cold weather triggers flare-ups and dries out the skin. Prevent and treat itchy eczema symptoms this winter with five expert tips.
NHS advises the best ways to treat eczema
Eczema, a condition which causes the skin to become itchy, red, dry and cracked, can be worse in winter when the weather turns colder. People with the skin condition usually have periods when symptoms are less prominent, as well as periods when symptoms are more severe - and for many winter is when symptoms are more prominent. “The cold weather in winter can dry out the skin, causing eczema flare-ups which leave the skin feeling sore and aggravated,” said LloydsPharmacy pharmacist Pareena Patel. Patel shares her top tips for avoiding and soothing flare-ups of eczema during the winter.
The cold weather in winter can dry out the skin, causing eczema flare-ups which leave the skin feeling sore and aggravated
Avoid wearing wool
When the weather is colder it may be tempting to wrap up in woolly jumpers to keep warm. However, wool can scratch the skin, causing irritation, and can also cause the skin to become too hot, leading to flare-ups in people with eczema.
Instead of wearing wool, wear cotton clothing which keeps the skin cool, or wear layers of cotton or silk underneath woolly garments.
Moisturise
The cold air during winter can dry the skin out, making eczema symptoms worse, as can central heating indoors.
Apply a specialist moisturiser to help rehydrate the skin and soothe dryness and soreness.
Keep a trigger diary
Knowing what triggers eczema flare-ups can help you to keep the condition under control, and keeping a trigger diary is a good way to keep track of your daily routine and find out what is causing flare-ups.
Common triggers include certain soaps, detergents, shampoos, washing-up liquids, bubble baths, dampness, dust mites, pet fur, wool and synthetic fibres, pollen, mould, sweat, food allergies and stress.
Wrap up but stay cool
Medicated bandages and wet wraps may be prescribed by your GP, which can be worn on areas affected by eczema.
These bandages can be applied over topical treatments and help prevent scratching, but wrapping up the skin can also heat it up, which may be irritating.
To prevent this, keep the skin cool by wearing loose clothing and keeping the rooms in the house cool.
Ask a pharmacist or GP
Pharmacists and doctors will be able to advise on the best treatments for you, based on your symptoms and experience.
Depending on the severity of your eczema, your GP may prescribe a topical treatment, which is applied directly to the skin, or may refer you to a specialist.