“For some people, the heat and sweat that’s generated with exercise can aggravate the skin,” says the dermatologist Debra Wattenberg, MD, a cofounder of NY Skin RX in New York City. But fear of eczema flare-ups shouldn’t discourage you from exercise. “Even those with atopic dermatitis should be able to enjoy this healthy habit,” says Dr. Wattenberg. Here’s more on the issues you face and how to reduce flare-ups.
Why Exercise Can Irritate Atopic Dermatitis
There are a number of reasons why exercise can worsen eczema symptoms, including:
Sweat “Skin dries out as sweat evaporates, leaving behind minerals like sodium and chloride that can irritate skin,” says Wattenberg.Rapid temperature swings A quick change in temperature, like going from the cold outdoors to a steamy gym class, can aggravate eczema, according to the National Eczema Association (NEA).Tight workout clothes Tight clothing can rub against skin during high-intensity exercise, which could make atopic dermatitis worse, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.Air pollutants A past review of research notes that outdoor exercise exposes people to air pollutants. Another review of research, published in the August 2021 issue of Allergology Select, states that air pollutants can worsen eczema symptoms.
Best Fitness Habits and Workouts
If you have atopic dermatitis, getting into a “skin-saving” routine may allow you to continue to do the exercises you love, without all the extra itchiness. Discover these best practices.
1. Stay Hydrated
Keep a water bottle handy when you’re working out. “Drinking water and staying hydrated — that’s universal, and everyone exercising should drink plenty of water,” says Wattenberg. Dehydration can cause dry skin, according to Rutgers University, which could make the dryness and discomfort that comes with atopic dermatitis even worse.
2. Exercise in a Cool Spot So You Don’t Get Too Sweaty
While breaking a sweat is often inevitable when you exercise, you’ll want to minimize how much you perspire. “Exercising in a cool environment can help those with a tendency to have eczema flare-ups,” says Wattenberg. That means you’ll want to choose a place that’s well air-conditioned or ventilated, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), or shady and cool if you’re exercising outdoors. And if you exercise outdoors, be mindful about what sunscreen you use. According to the National Eczema Society, many people with eczema find mineral-based sunscreens less irritating for their skin.
3. Opt for Relaxed-Fit Workout Clothes in Breathable Fibers
The type of clothing you choose is key for your skin-friendly fitness routine. “Wear breathable fabrics that aren’t too tight,” says Wattenberg. The NEA notes that 100 percent cotton clothing can be better than workout outfits made of synthetic fabrics — it’s typically more comfortable for people with eczema, even if it isn’t always on trend. Tight-fitting clothing (hello clingy yoga pants!) can trap sweat and rub against the skin, which is why a looser fit is better, Dr. Zeichner says; also be sure to avoid clothes that have uncomfortable seams and tags. How you wash your workout wear is crucial, too. “Use fragrance-free detergent and fabric softeners,” says Zeichner. Essential oils and dyes can irritate atopic dermatitis, according to the AAD.
4. Consider Lower-Sweat Activities
If your fitness routine causes an eczema flare-up, it might be time to change how you exercise. “Low-impact workouts like yoga and Pilates might be better than high-impact sports if heat aggravates symptoms,” says Wattenberg. Low-impact exercise makes it less likely that clothing will chafe your skin, Zeichner adds. Even if you choose a low-impact workout over intense exercise, aim to get your heart rate up — and not just for the cardiovascular benefits. “Some studies have shown that aerobic exercise may actually improve atopic dermatitis,” says Wattenberg. Researchers hypothesize these workouts may help ease skin symptoms by altering the immune system. Whether you choose a high- or low-intensity workout, always have a small towel nearby to wipe away sweat, suggests Wattenberg.
5. Swim the Skin-Savvy Way
“While swimming is great for your health, the chlorine and salt used to disinfect the water may be drying to the skin,” says Zeichner. This effect can be especially problematic for people with eczema, according to the National Eczema Society. Still love the sport? Consider this trick before you hop into a chlorinated pool: “Try a thin coat of Vaseline or Aquaphor on the trouble areas to protect against the irritating effects of the chemicals in the pool,” says Wattenberg. Wetting your scalp with unchlorinated water before swimming can also help. Shower immediately after your swim to wash off pool water and moisturize before and after exercise to keep skin hydrated.
6. Create a Post-Exercise Self-Care Routine
What you do right after exercise can help keep your skin healthy. “Change immediately after working out and if possible shower immediately,” says Wattenberg. This will prevent damp clothing from chafing you and remove the sweaty residue left on skin. You’ll want to avoid long, hot showers. “Extended exposure to hot water strips the skin of essential oils and leads to dryness,” Zeichner says. Avoid harsh soap, and instead stick to gentle, hydrating cleansers. Pat yourself dry with a towel rather than rubbing. You’ll also want to moisturize. According to the AAD, moisturizing with a cream or ointment after a bath or shower helps prevent water loss.
The Takeaway
Even though exercise is important for your health and your mood, it isn’t always great for your eczema. But by taking some simple steps you can avoid major irritation and still get in a good — and skin-friendly — workout.
