The cooler, dry air is moving into San Antonio causing problems for those who struggle with psoriasis and eczema. The fall and winter months can be a challenging time when it comes to managing skin conditions that are already prone to flare-ups from numerous causes.
Winter holidays spark so much joy and cheerful activities but managing flare-ups can make you feel like the Grinch. So why does winter (and cooler temps) cause psoriasis and eczema flare-ups?
Cold Conditions = Dry Skin
Cold, dry conditions pull the moisture from our skin. When the weather is colder, we typically take hot showers or baths and turn the heat up inside to keep ourselves warm. All of this causes dry skin which ultimately can lead to, you guessed it, psoriasis and eczema flare-ups. According to an article by Johnson & Johnson, psoriasis flares can also be caused by a reduced exposure to sunlight. Since we are indoors more often and cover up with warm clothing outdoors, we reduce the amount of UV light on our skin which can lead to flare-ups. In short, the winter months can be brutal for psoriasis and eczema but there are ways to manage and treat them.
Managing Flare-Ups
Psoriasis and eczema can be tedious to deal with all year round but mixing in the cold, dry air with these conditions can make life seem unbearable at times. Managing flare-ups is key to maintaining healthy skin in the winter months. So, how can you do that?
- Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Use fragrance free lotions to keep your skin vibrant and healthy this winter.
- Buy a humidifier for your home. The winter months suck the moisture out of the air. Consider placing a humidifier in your home to bring that moisture back into the air especially in your bedroom for optimal sleep.
- Drink water! Water is so important in the winter months because it replenishes the moisture that is taken out of your skin. Keep hydrated to keep reduce flare-ups.
- Seriously, skip those hot showers. Hot water damages the layer of skin that retains moisture so opting for a lukewarm shower or bath is ideal for managing flare-ups. Keep your time in the shower or bath short and remember to pat yourself dry with a towel rather than rubbing the towel over your skin. Patting helps your skin retain more moisture.
- Talk with your dermatologist. If winter gives you the chills when you think about your psoriasis or eczema, make an appointment to learn more about treatment options for the winter months.
Texas Dermatology’s practitioners will work with you to customize a treatment plan to decrease winter psoriasis or eczema flare-ups and improve the health of your skin. Schedule your consultation today by calling us at (210) 728-3919 or through our online portal.
Sources:
https://www.jnj.com/health-and-wellness/why-do-eczema-and-psoriasis-flare-up-in-winter
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/features/winter
https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-disorders/winter-eczema-treatment
