Enjoying your summer means minimizing your eczema symptoms.
A safe, healthy summer with eczema can be simple if you do not take a break from your eczema treatment. Being prepared can help you relax and enjoy the summer.
Swimming Relief
Swimming can be the perfect cure to a hot summer day, but saltwater and chlorine can dry skin out fast. Take a quick shower or bring a water bottle with you to rinse off and avoid eczema flares. After rinsing, pat dry and apply an eczema emollient to lock in the moisture. Some eczema sufferers find relief from the swimming pool as the chlorine can clean eczema. Others find relief from the salt-water at the beach. Just make sure to rinse off thoroughly with clean water after enjoying the pool or the beach. If you want to continue to find relief from either the pool or beach, consider a salt water bath or a diluted bleach bath to replicate the treatment.
Perspiration Relief
Sweating is your body’s natural reaction to heat. Sweat is mostly water, but can also include small amounts of sodium and chloride. While these chemicals may not irritate eczema initially, they can irritate and dry skin out over time. Perspiration can be especially irritating to eczema in places where you are likely to sweat the most. Elbows, knees, under the arm, and around the neck are areas to pay special attention to.
For perspiration relief, carry a bottle of water around to cool yourself off. Or take advantage of hand-held fans or spray bottles. If you know you will be exercising, or in an area with no air conditioning, make sure to drink plenty of water before you leave. Eczema sleeves that prevent sweat can be extremely helpful and can be worn on the arms and legs during inside and outside exercise and sports. They are also wonderful for gardening, walking. They prevent sweat and bacteria buildup.
Clothing and Sheets
Consider your clothing before you are outside for a long period of time. Artificial fabrics or fabrics with dye can be very irritating to eczema, especially if you are in the sun or sweating. Chemical, dye, and zinc free eczema clothing and wraps can be found here. The lightweight TENCEL® material can regulate body temperatures and wick moisture from the skin to prevent irritation, flares and bacteria buildup.
If you will be traveling this summer, consider bringing TENCEL® sheets along to avoid eczema flares while sleeping. Sheets made from polyester and synthetics can really aggravate eczema during nighttime hours. TENCEL® sheets are 50% more moisture absorbing than cotton and are naturally itch suppressing.
Air Conditioning
Make sure to run your air conditioner and purchase an allergy-friendly furnace filter. This will help with seasonal eczema by keeping pollen and other irritants from entering your home. Keep your home clean and dust frequently with a Swiffer and vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove dust from your home. Dust mites are a known eczema trigger.
Sunscreen
Always apply sunscreen and make sure it's an eczema friendly sunscreen.
This information is not meant to replace a visit to a physician or a physician’s advice. Always consult your doctor about your medical conditions. AD RescueWear does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment of any condition.
