5 Tips To Help Prevent Eczema Flare-Ups This Spring

After an especially bitter, icy winter, spring promises a lovely reprieve, unless you suffer from eczema. Rising pollen counts and fluctuating humidity are potent triggers for many eczema patients. 

The board-certified dermatologists at Dermatology Associates of Western Pennsylvania, see this every spring. 

Here’s how they advise patients in Western PA. 

1. Monitor local pollen and humidity levels

Pollen can trigger an immune response in your skin. When pollen counts are high, it can lead to a flare-up of itchy, red patches.  Our team recommends:

• Checking daily air quality and pollen forecasts before heading outdoors.
• Keeping windows closed on high-pollen days prevents allergens from entering your home.
• Using an air purifier with a HEPA filter.

2. Moisturize routinely 

Consistent moisturization is the most effective way to prevent flares because it helps repair the skin barrier.

We recommend switching to a cream-based moisturizer for spring that provides significant hydration without the heavy feeling of a thick balm. Apply your moisturizer within 3 minutes of stepping out of the shower to lock in as much water as possible. This technique helps prevent trans-epidermal water loss, which can lead to irritation.

3. Choose breathable fabrics 

As temperatures rise in Pittsburgh, you perspire more, which can contain salts and minerals that can irritate sensitive skin. The clothes you wear play a role in how your skin reacts to this heat.

• Wear loose clothing made from 100 percent cotton or silk.
• Avoid synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon, which trap heat and moisture against your body.
• Wash new clothes before wearing them to remove any residual chemical finishes from the manufacturing process.
• Use fragrance-free and dye-free detergents.

4. Gentle cleansing after outdoor activity

When you spend time outside, pollen and dust settle on your skin and hair. If these particles remain on your body, they can cause a delayed reaction. Rinse off as soon as you return home from the outdoors.

Keep your showers short and use lukewarm water. Hot water can rob your skin of its natural oils and trigger an immediate itch reflex. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. 

5. Manage stress 

Stress is a key factor in nearly 30 percent of eczema flares. It can hinder the skin’s ability to repair itself and stay hydrated. Stress can also activate nerve fibers in the skin, leading to intense itching, scratching, and further skin damage.

If you are struggling with a persistent flare-up, despite your best preventive efforts, call 412-262-1064 to book an appointment with the experts at Dermatology Associates of Western Pennsylvania.