Q: My dry skin gets worse in the summer — what can I do? Dr. Shenara Sexton: During these hot months I recommend drinking more water and taking a look at the products that you’re using on your skin. Make sure you’re using a moisturizer at least daily, and the best time to apply is within two minutes of exiting the bath or shower. Daily showers are fine and encouraged, particularly if your daily activity finds you getting hot and sweaty. The key is to make sure you’re taking shorter showers using warm rather than hot water, a dye- and fragrance-free, soap free-cleanser, and moisturizing immediately after showering. Pat, rather than rub, the skin dry, and aim to moisturize head to toe. Moisturize exposed areas (arms, legs, neck) a second time per day when possible. Also, you want to make sure you’re using dye- and fragrance-free, light, cream-based moisturizer with ceramides. Dr. Mohiba Tareen: Did you know that heat and UV rays from the sun can weaken our skin barrier? For individuals whose eczema worsens in summer I advise avoiding the harsh, direct sunlight and using hydrating yet light moisturizers. Key ingredients to look for include ceramides and squalane in a lotion form. Avoid highly fragranced products during the summer as this may lead to further skin irritation and burning. Q: What kind of sunscreen is best for eczema? Dr. Ross Radusky: Choose a sunscreen that is fragrance free, and aim for a mineral sunscreen over a chemical one. Mineral sunscreens contain either zinc or titanium. These act like a shield over the skin, instead of absorbing into it, so the chances for irritating and worsening eczema are minimal. This is particularly important when applying sunscreen over eczema-affected areas of skin. Finally, choose one that is easy to apply. This may vary based on body part. For example, the arms and legs may require a spray or pump as opposed to a cream to maximize application and minimize unnecessary rubbing across affected areas. SS: Dye and fragrance free sunscreen with as few preservatives as possible. Also physical or mineral based sunscreens tend to be gentler and more tolerable for those with sensitive skin. Q: Is being in the sun good for eczema? RR: Here’s what we know about the sun and eczema. A sunburn can lead to an eczema flare because sun damage can dry out your skin and drive inflammation exactly where we want to avoid it. We know that dry, inflamed skin is a major culprit when it comes to causing eczema. Certain prescriptions that are meant to treat eczema, like topical steroid creams, can actually camouflage a sunburn so your skin may look normal right after an afternoon in the sun, but the damage is still taking place. So it’s best to protect yourself from the sun. Wear protective clothing and a hat, find shade, and apply sunscreen regularly. Q: Swimming triggers my eczema — what can I do? MT: Jumping in a refreshing pool or lake is a joy of the summer season. For those whose skin flares after swimming, simple advice can help:
Wear a swim shirt and pants with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) before you jump in — this protects your skin from irritation and sun damage.Rinse immediately after getting out. This helps wash off harsh chlorine, salt water, or freshwater algae.Pat dry lightly. Harsh rubbing can exacerbate eczema.Immediately apply moisturizer to your entire skin surface.For areas that tend to get irritation, seal in the moisturizer with a layer of petroleum jelly.
Q: What’s the top tip you give eczema patients going into the summer? RR: Every season has its challenges for patients with eczema. The pool can be very relieving, and particularly helpful because of the chlorine in moderation, but can also be too drying. The air has more moisture than in winter, which is great for eczema-prone skin, but all the extra sun can leave your skin feeling parched. So my top tip for eczema patients is to continue your normal routine — moisturizing, topical or injectable medications as needed, and sunscreen all summer long to enjoy all the best this season offers. SS: Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize and drink your water! And just like any other time of the year, be mindful of the products that you’re using. Avoid products with any dyes or perfumes. And stick with mineral (physical) based sunscreens, SPF 30 or higher on a day expected to be spent indoors, and SPF 50 or higher on a day expected to be spent outdoors. MT: Sun-protective clothing! Although sunscreen is great, sun protective clothing gives a more reliable degree of protection. Find clothing that is light and breathable. In addition, your sun shirt can protect you against bug bites — which can get very large and inflamed in eczema patients. As a bonus, you do not have to worry about tan lines!
