ECZEMA – Winter Skin Care
The low humidity common in many parts of the world during winter can cause dry, irritated skin. When skin becomes dry and irritated, skin disorders such as Eczema can flare-up. Here are some tips to help the skin feel more comfortable during winter or anytime the air is dry:
1. Use a humidifier. With the heat on and the windows closed, the air inside can become very dry in the winter, making the dryness and itchiness of Eczema even worse. Even several smaller, relatively inexpensive humidifiers placed throughout your home will help to humidify the dry air and keep skin from drying and becoming cracked and itchy.
2. Moisturize frequently. With the addition of Kukui Nut Oil to its original formula, ARMSTRONG SKIN AID is now even more effective for binding the skin’s natural moisture, relieving dryness and the associated itchiness.
3. Before going outside in winter:
- Apply a heavy layer of moisturizing broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to the face, hands and any other skin that may be exposed. Sunscreen is important in winter because the sun’s reflective powers are great year-round (17% on the sand and 80% on snow).
- Don’t forget your gloves! Protecting hands from the cold air and low humidity plays an important role in preventing flare-ups. Make sure the gloves are made from material that does not irritate your skin. Some people find that wearing a cotton glove next to the skin and a woolen glove or mitten over the cotton one keeps hands warm and dry.
4. Dress in layers. The most common trigger of the itch/scratch cycle are sweating and overheating. Wearing layers allows you to remove clothing as needed to prevent overheating. Cotton fabrics next to the skin are usually the least irritating.
5. Shed wet clothes and shoes immediately. These can irritate the skin and cause a flare-up.