Apr
Skincare
How to Manage Eczema Flare-Ups During Seasonal Changes
There’s nothing quite like the fresh scent of spring air or the first crisp morning of autumn – unless you live with eczema. For the millions who do, seasonal changes can trigger a chain reaction of redness, itching, dryness, and inflammation. Suddenly, your tried-and-true skincare routine feels like it’s failing you. And just when you thought you had it all under control, your skin reminds you who’s boss.
Roughly 31.6 million people in the United States have some form of eczema, according to the National Eczema Association. That’s nearly 10% of the population. It’s not just a skin condition – it’s a constant calculation. Should you wear that wool sweater? Is your moisturizer rich enough for winter? Will pollen throw your skin into a frenzy?
If you’ve found yourself asking how to manage these flare-ups when the weather shifts, you’re definitely not alone. But the good news? You can absolutely stay one step ahead. Let’s break down how to keep your skin as calm as possible – no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
Why Seasonal Changes Mess with Eczema
Skin is our first line of defense against the outside world, and eczema compromises that barrier. When the seasons shift, so does the environment – and that can wreak havoc. Dry winter air saps moisture, while heat and humidity in summer can trigger sweat-induced inflammation. Spring and fall? Pollen, mold, and changing temps often mean your immune system goes into hyperdrive, and your skin pays the price.
During colder months, indoor heating strips the air of humidity. Your skin, already prone to dryness, becomes even more vulnerable. Meanwhile, warmer seasons often bring increased sweating, which can cause irritation and make the skin feel sticky, itchy, and inflamed. Each seasonal transition introduces new allergens and climate stressors, which can all contribute to flare-ups.
But here’s what’s important: flare-ups aren’t random. They often follow predictable patterns. Recognizing your skin’s seasonal behavior is the first step in reducing the chaos.
Identify Your Triggers by Season
Start by observing when your skin tends to act up. Do you always flare in early spring? Does your skin feel raw and tight in October? Keeping a skin diary can help pinpoint these patterns.
Winter flare-ups are usually driven by cold air, wind, low humidity, and indoor heating. You may notice more flaking, cracking, and soreness – especially on your hands, face, and joints.
Spring introduces pollen, mold spores, and increased sun exposure. If you also have allergies or asthma, this time of year may be particularly challenging. You might experience itchy eyes, sneezing, and eczema simultaneously.
Summer brings sweat, sunscreen, and longer days outdoors. Heat rash and chafing become common culprits. Sunscreens with irritating ingredients, like fragrance or alcohol, can cause flare-ups too.
Autumn is tricky – dry leaves, mold, and cooler temps can all affect your skin. This transitional time often requires recalibrating your skincare routine quickly.
Understanding these seasonal tendencies gives you the power to prepare instead of react.
Adjust Your Skincare Routine for the Season
Just like you change your wardrobe as the seasons shift, your skin routine needs seasonal adjustments too. What works in July may not hold up in January.
In the winter, opt for thicker, occlusive moisturizers that help lock in hydration. Look for ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and petrolatum. Moisturize within three minutes of getting out of the shower to trap moisture before it evaporates. Reduce how often you exfoliate and swap harsh soaps for creamy, fragrance-free cleansers.
Spring may call for a gentler exfoliation once a week to remove dead skin and allergens. Use barrier-repair serums with niacinamide or panthenol to strengthen your skin against outdoor irritants. Make sure your SPF is fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin.
Summer skincare should focus on managing sweat, heat, and sun exposure. Use light, non-comedogenic moisturizers and reapply sunscreen frequently. Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide formulas – they’re less likely to irritate eczema-prone skin. Shower promptly after sweating and avoid tight, synthetic clothing.
In fall, it’s time to slowly shift back to richer creams and dial down active treatments. If you use topical steroids or prescription creams, talk to your dermatologist about how to transition through the season without overdoing it.
Use Humidifiers and Air Quality Controls
One of the most overlooked tools for eczema relief is something that doesn’t go on your skin – it’s the air itself. Indoor heating systems can turn your home into a desert. A humidifier helps keep air moisture levels between 40% and 60%, which can drastically reduce dryness and irritation.
In the spring and fall, air purifiers can be a game changer, especially if your eczema flares are linked to allergies. HEPA filters remove dust, mold spores, and pollen from the air, reducing the number of triggers you’re exposed to indoors.
It’s also worth noting that sudden changes in temperature, like going from a warm home into cold winter air or vice versa, can trigger flare-ups. Try to keep indoor temperatures consistent and dress in breathable layers that protect your skin.
Simplify and Streamline Your Products
When eczema strikes, less is often more. Overloading your skin with too many products – especially during seasonal transitions – can backfire.
Stick to a minimalist routine: a gentle cleanser, a hydrating serum (optional), a rich moisturizer, and sunscreen. Avoid anything with alcohol, fragrance, essential oils, or synthetic dyes. These are common irritants that can sneak into even “natural” skincare.
Look for products labeled “hypoallergenic” and “dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin.” Even then, do a patch test on your wrist or behind your ear before slathering it on.
And remember eczema-prone skin doesn’t always tolerate active ingredients well. If you’re using exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids, keep them to a minimum – or cut them out altogether during flare-ups.
Clothing, Laundry, and Everyday Habits Matter
Your clothing can either soothe or sabotage your skin. During colder months, it’s tempting to bundle up in cozy wool or synthetic fabrics – but these materials can irritate eczema patches. Stick to soft, breathable cotton or bamboo fabrics whenever possible.
In warmer months, avoid tight clothing that traps sweat and heat. Look for loose, moisture-wicking garments.
Laundry detergent is another sneaky culprit. Choose a fragrance-free, dye-free formula. Skip fabric softeners and dryer sheets – they often contain residues that can stay on clothes and irritate skin.
Bathing routines matter, too. Keep showers short (10 minutes or less), lukewarm – not hot – and avoid scrubbing. Gently pat skin dry and apply moisturizer while it’s still slightly damp.
When Flare-Ups Strike, Don’t Panic
Even with the best routine, flare-ups can still happen. When they do, the goal is to minimize the duration and severity without triggering more irritation.
First, stop using anything new or unnecessary. Strip your routine back to basics. Use a gentle cleanser and rich moisturizer only. Apply topical corticosteroids or prescription treatments as directed by your doctor.
Cool compresses can relieve itching and inflammation. Wet wrap therapy – where you apply moisturizer and then wrap the area with damp gauze or clothing – can be incredibly effective for calming intense flare-ups.
Avoid scratching, as hard as it may be. Scratching damages the skin barrier even more and can lead to infection. If itching is unbearable, antihistamines may help but check with your healthcare provider first.
And give it time. It can take days or even weeks for a bad flare to fully calm down. Be patient and consistent. Your skin will get back to baseline.
Support Your Skin from the Inside Out
What you put inside your body matters, too. Hydration, a balanced diet, and supplements can all influence eczema.
Drink enough water daily, especially during dry months. Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids – found in flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish – as they may reduce inflammation. Vitamin D has also been linked to eczema improvement, particularly in winter, when sun exposure is low.
Some people find success eliminating food triggers like dairy, gluten, or eggs. But before making any big dietary changes, speak with a dietitian or healthcare provider to avoid nutrient deficiencies.
Managing stress is another underrated factor. Seasonal changes can disrupt sleep, mood, and daily routines, all of which affect skin health. Practice mindfulness, yoga, or even short daily walks to help regulate stress levels and support your immune system.
Work with Your Dermatologist All Year Long
If your eczema consistently worsens with seasonal changes, it’s worth building a relationship with a dermatologist. They can help you create a customized flare-up prevention plan, prescribe stronger treatments when needed, and monitor for related conditions like asthma or allergies.
Ask about proactive therapy – using prescription treatments before a seasonal shift to prevent flares rather than just treating them after they start. For example, some people benefit from using a topical steroid or calcineurin inhibitor a couple of times a week during the high-risk months.
Your doctor may also help you access newer therapies like biologics or JAK inhibitors if your eczema is severe and hasn’t responded well to standard treatments.
FAQs
Can eczema go away completely with treatment?
Eczema is a chronic condition, meaning it tends to come and go. With the right management strategy, many people can go months or years without a flare. But there’s no permanent cure – just control.
Are certain climates better for people with eczema?
Yes. Moderate, humid climates are usually best. Extreme dryness or heat tends to trigger more flare-ups. However, what works for one person might not work for another. Trial and error – and monitoring – are key.
Is it safe to use steroids regularly for eczema?
Topical steroids are effective for managing flares, but long-term daily use can thin the skin. Use them under medical guidance, and only as directed. Ask your dermatologist about steroid-sparing options if you need frequent treatment.
How do I know if I’m reacting to a skincare product?
If a product causes redness, stinging, or increased itching shortly after application, stop using it. Symptoms may take a few days to appear, so patch testing new products is always wise.
Why does stress make my eczema worse?
Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol, which can increase inflammation throughout the body – including the skin. Practicing regular stress management can help reduce flare frequency.
