7 Effective Ways to Avoid Eczema Flare-ups this Summer

Picture this: Warm breeze, cloudless skies, and the calming sound of waves reaching the shores—this is how summer should look like under the scorching sun. But when extreme dryness and itchiness make their way toward your skin, enjoying summertime can be a little bit challenging. 

According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), managing the symptoms of atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, can be troublesome at any time of the year. The combination of genes, changing weathers, and other triggers push our immune system to overreact, causing our bodies to respond by producing inflammation. 

These symptoms, which can be itchy and painful, are undoubtedly disruptive. The extreme dryness of the skin, combined with flare-ups, makes it hard for those with eczema to spend summer activities outdoors. However, with the right precautions, you can still have a little fun under the sun without frustrations. Here are the 7 proactive tips to reducing your eczema flare-ups this summer. 

1. STAY COOL 

When the scorching weather strikes, body parts such as the creases of your elbows, knees, or armpits are typically prone to eczema flares due to excessive sweating. To avoid breakouts, try to keep yourself cool and fresh.

Always seek shade when you're running errands outside on a warm day. When the heat becomes unbearable, move indoors and stay inside a well-ventilated or air-conditioned environment. Also, before you head out, check your local temperatures and avoid periods when the heat is expected to climb. 

2. STAY DRY 

The hottest days make the sweatiest clothes. If you're dealing with eczema-prone skin, always change out of wet clothing drenched in perspiration and moisture as soon as you can. Also, make it a habit to carry a small hand towel with you to wipe the sweat. 

The rising temperatures push our bodies to naturally sweat more. “When we get hot and sweaty, the moisture evaporates, cooling us down. As the sweat evaporates, the skin dries out and is left with a salty residue that can irritate eczema skin and bring on the itch,” the NEA explained.

3. APPLY THE RIGHT SUNSCREEN 

We all know that sunscreens, moisturizers, and other products that have fragrances in them aren't ideal for people with eczema. Also, some chemical-containing sunscreens can be irritating for those with sensitive skin. 

That's why the NEA urges people to use sunscreen that doesn’t sting. EverydayHealth also echoed the same thing, advising readers to look for sunscreens with "the words 'physical' or 'mineral' on the bottle and ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

4. SHOWER IN COOL WATER 

If you went out and got home soaked in sweat, the NEA says you should take a cold shower or run a cold bath twice a day. Taking a bath can help cleanse the skin, removing bacteria, sweat, and dust that have accumulated during your daily activities under the sun.

Moreover, you should also take a shower using fresh water and mild soap after swimming to take out all the chemicals found in chlorine-rich pools and salt found in the ocean. Afterward, apply a rich moisturizer to better hydrate your skin.

5. USE AIR PURIFIER 

It must also be noted that other seasonal environmental factors could also be the culprit as they can incite histamine release, which then leads to irritation. 

"Our eczema will flare when we’re around things that cause our allergies to go haywires such as dust, mites, dander, mold, pollen, and certain foods. Even though these substances, or allergens, are not harmful to everyone, those with eczema could experience hives, itching, sneezing, runny nose, and swelling," the NEA said. 

To fend off environmental triggers like dust, pollen, and other allergens from your room, consider getting your home a HEPA purifier with a carbon filter for added protection. 

6. KEEP YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE 

Aside from these tips, nothing beats the skincare routine that works for you and the pieces of advice that your dermatologist gave towards eczema relief. It's highly important that you remain consistent in managing your eczema. 

Just because it doesn't flare-up, it doesn't entirely mean it won't be triggered in the coming days, so always be proactive to reduce your risk for more serious skin infection or eczema-related skin damage. 

7. WEAR ORGANIC COTTON CLOTHING

In addition to these tips, the clothes that you wear are still your best defense against extreme heat, so wear lightweight, loose clothes that can be easily removed or added as the temperature changes. 

The NEA encourages people to wear clothing made of natural fabric like cotton that is not too tight or close to the skin. Our allergy-free clothes, made from 100% chemical-free and organic cotton, are ultimately breathable and comfortable. It thrives with just the right amount of stretch to prevent unnecessary irritation to your skin.

If you’re having a hard time looking for comfortable and 100% organic cotton clothes that won’t irritate your skin and help protect your skin from the sun, try our awesome picks here: 

• Men's T-Shirt

Casual and versatile allergy-free wardrobe staple

• Men's Athletic V-Neck Shirt

The next level of men's t-shirts ideal for those with an active lifestyle and easygoing attitude.

• Men’s Drawstring Loose Boxer Shorts

Roomy relaxed fit, perfect for lounging around the house with ease or as a sleepwear bottom.

• Men’s Lounge Shorts

The comfiest must-have for days of winding down.

• Women's Drawstring Boxer Shorts

Versatile bottom that gives full range of motion in any given situation 

• Women’s Lounge Shorts

The ultimate must-have for women on-the-go that gives allergy-free experience with every wear. 

• Women's Camisole

Hypoallergenic top that feels soft as a whisper and comforts like a warm hug. 

• Women's Full Slip

Itch-free top that keeps you comfy, cool, and safe from triggering your skin allergies and sensitivities

• Women's Athletic V-Neck Shirt

A closet staple for you to step up your casual wear in the most comfortable yet chic way.