Did you know that for many in the eczema community, autumn is known as ‘flare-up season?’ As we transition into cooler weather, dealing with eczema can become more of a challenge as your skin really has to adjust. That’s exactly why we have compiled our essential tips on maintaining healthy skin this autumn, specifically for those who are prone to dry skin, itchy skin & eczema:
Try to avoid scratching
Eczema often comes with an irresistible urge to scratch, but doing so can worsen the condition. Here are some ways to try to resist the itch:
- Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce irritation; autumn is a great chance to wear lighter fabrics before it gets too cold. Choose soft materials with little texture and avoid materials that are known to feel itchy on the skin, like wool.
- Use cold compresses or cooling products such as our Bioskin Dermaspray Intensive for relief.
- You can even use special, non-damaging eczema-scratchers such as the Scratch Star from Cosi Care.
Take shorter baths/showers
Long, hot baths or showers can strip your skin of moisture and exacerbate eczema symptoms over a long-term period (even though it may be tempting as the weather changes). Instead, you can:
- Limit bath or shower time to 10-15 minutes – this should stop your skin from developing dry/red patches in the colder temperatures.
- Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid skin irritation (our Bioskin Junior Face & Body Wash is excellent for those with sensitive and irritable skin – even adults!).
- Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing your skin.
An extreme switch from hot to cold temperatures during autumn can be harsh on eczema-prone skin.
- During warmer days, stay hydrated and wear lightweight, natural fabrics to minimize sweating. Layering is a great idea as you can easily adjust to your surroundings, maintaining a comfortable body temperature.
- On cooler days, you can use a humidifier indoors to add moisture to the air.
Although some benefit from increased sun exposure, it can also aggravate eczema-prone skin. Protect your skin with a gentle sunscreen:
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher – our sister company Rosalique contains SPF 50 to protect against over 98% of UV rays.
- Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreen to look after your skin.
- Apply sunscreen generously, especially when spending time outdoors.
As we mentioned, autumn is truly an ideal time to start upping your skincare routine in anticipation of winter – both in frequency and in product choice. Maybe it’s time to dig out your Zeoderm, or to start carrying your DermaSpray with you instead of keeping it in your bathroom. Salcura’s Bioskin range will help you keep your skin moisturised, help prevent and reduce flare-ups and relieve uncomfortable symptoms when in the midst of a flare. You can access our full shop here or contact us if you have any questions or need advice on managing your eczema this season.
