SEVENWAYS TOPREVENTA WINTERFLAKY
Cold weather, central heating and festive stress can cause havoc for eczema-prone skin. Here’s how to cut the risk of flare-ups
WINTER weather can be tricky for skin and for people prone to eczema, the cold conditions can be especially troublesome.
This irritating skin condition causes dry, rough and inflamed patches which can crop up all over your body.
With cooler temperatures outside, plus central heating and all that added festive stress – which can all act as triggers – party season can be a prime time for eczema flare-ups.
Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to help combat the itch. Here’s what the experts suggest... Get a good night’s sleep There are few things more irritating than itchy skin at night-time.
Keeping cool can help. LloydsPharmacy pharmacist Anshu Bhimbat said: “Try keeping the bedroom window open at night and keep central heating down to the minimum.”
Bedding is also key. Anshu added: “A light cotton duvet will be better than a thicker tog, which could cause you to sweat, leading to further irritation.” Keep an eye on ‘trigger’ foods Our usual diets go out of the window over the festive period but you can still try to steer clear of munching on any “trigger” foods that tend to cause flare-ups.
“A food allergy or intolerance can cause eczema symptoms in some people,” warned Anshu, who suggests keeping a food diary to work out if certain elements of your diet could be linked to your eczema.
She added: “If you’ve noticed flare-ups with certain foods, it could be an indicator that it’s causing breakouts – but it’s best to see a dermatologist before cutting anything specific out of your diet.” Use a soap substitute Some bathing and cleansing products can make symptoms worse. Dermatologist Dr Anthony Bewley said: “Some people with dry skin or eczema may find their skin is easily irritated by harsh and strong ingredients in soaps,
“Avoid foaming soap agents and instead try a substitute such as Cetraben Daily Cleansing Cream (£7.19 for 200ml, Boots), which can be less drying on the skin.”
Showering in lukewarm water, rather than steaming hot, can help avoid scalding the sores. And don’t scrub your skin too hard, as this can irritate it further. Regularly apply emollient Using suitable creams and ointments that moisturise the skin will prevent scaly patches from drying out.
Dr Organic Manuka Honey Rescue Cream (£9.49 for 50ml, Holland & Barrett) nourishes and restores, and will help leave skin feeling intensely moisturised.
Dr Bewley said: “Emollients are particularly effective when applied straight after a shower, to help protect the skin barrier function.” Reduce dust exposure Keeping cosy indoors can mean greater exposure to dust mites, a common trigger for people with allergies and skin conditions.
Dr Bewley said: “House dust mites are in everyone’s homes.
“If you can, vacuum and dust your home two to three times per week. Wherever possible, wash clothes on a hot temperature (above 60C) to kill dust mites. You could also try an anti-allergy mattress cover and pillow protectors.” Manage weather changes “Eczema reacts badly to rapid temperature changes, as well as extreme hot or cold temperatures,” said Anshu. “Central heating in the winter can also often be a trigger.”
She advises keeping heating low and wear light cotton sleepwear or loungewear. If you’re going out in the cold, weat hat, coat and gloves to keep affected areas out of the wind. Keep stress in check This is easier said than done, but Anshu advised: “Make sure you get enough sleep and try some methods to combat stress and anxiety.”
Meditation and mindfulness apps are a great place to start. Calm.com have a range of guided mindfulness programmes designed to help soothe the mind when Christmas workloads and family arguments get the better of you. Simply plug in and switch off.