Why Eczema is Worse in Winter

If you have suffered from dry irritating skin rashes, you may have noticed an external factor that triggered this irritating condition. You may or may not be suffering from a skin condition called eczema. For those of you who have it, you may know that there are certain triggers that can result in annoying flare ups. Some factors that can worsen your condition are water, certain types of food, humidity, weather conditions, clothing, and soap. Weather is one of the biggest factors that can worsen your eczema, and it is known to be at its worst in the winter.

Most areas of the world have cold winters, excluding places such as the Caribbean or other tropical location. Winter weather conditions can include harsh northerly winds, snow, low humidity, dry air and cold weather. These factors can cause your skin to become very dry. It is so important to stay moisturized and wear protective clothing when you have to face winter conditions. Even if you don't have eczema, you have probably noticed that your skin is dry in the winter and you are constantly applying lotion or other types of moisturizers.

Cold air and low humidity can dry your skin and it removes the moisture your skin needs. Because these are common winter conditions, it tends to make your eczema worse during this season. It can be hard to stay moisturized when the weather doesn't change and continues to stay cold. Also, central heating inside your home will also dry your skin. To combat these factors you can humidify your home with a humidifier and wear gloves when you go outside.

A lot of people wear wool in the winter because the material keeps you so warm. However, this can cause a lot of itching which can worsen an eczema flare up. It is hard to dress warm when the weather is so cold without irritating your skin. Adding on extra layers to your outfit can also cause you to sweat which will induce a flare up. When dressing for the winter, you have to find a happy medium.

Unfortunately, the weather conditions cannot be changed in the winter and typically eczema is worse during this season. During the spring is when most people with eczema notice that they have less flare ups. If you are living in a location with a cold climate and harsh winter conditions, be sure to moisturize your skin with an organic eczema oil or lotion. This can manage a flare up if you happen to have one. The winter months will bring on more flare ups because of the cold air so staying moisturized becomes a necessity for the health of your skin.