Spring and summer can bring out the worst in some eczema, while fall and winter can be harder on others.
_Regardless of which season affects you the most, here are some warm weather tips to help keep your eczema under
_control.
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Go to the Beach – Salt water has been known to work miracles on eczema. Like many
_mysteries sounding eczema, no one really understands why salt benefits eczema skin, but there are theories the
_magnesium in salt helps soothe dry skin. A word of caution, although therapeutic for some, salt can be painful
_to others with eczema, particularly if there are open wounds. If you're beach bound, test the waters and listen
_to your body. -
Spend Time at the Pool – At home chlorine baths are sometimes recommended by physicians
_to kill bacteria on the surface of eczema skin. Since the pool is essentially one big chlorine bath, it's no
_wonder that some eczema sufferers find much needed relief poolside. -
Time in the Sun – The sun is another natural wonder for eczema. For many, the sun
_seems to dry up their eczema and leave them flare free, most likely due to the body's spike in vitamin D
_production after time in the sun. What about sunscreen? This is a tricky one. Applying sunscreen is important to
_block the damaging UVA and UVB rays, but sunscreen can also reduce the amount of vitamin D the body produces.
_Although it will be tempting to soak up hours in the sun in hopes of banishing eczema, limit this time (15 minutes)
_if you don't apply sunscreens and stick to early morning or late afternoon hours when the sun's rays are weaker.
_For prolonged exposure in the sun, or during peak hours, find a good sunscreen and lather-up. Yes, eczema is a
_beast, but skin cancer is deadly. -
Choose Sunscreen with Caution – Many sunscreens can burn or sting delicate
_eczema skin. The best bet for choosing a gentle sunscreen is to look for one which creates a physical barrier
_on your skin, rather than a chemical sunscreen, which destroys the absorbed UVA/UVB rays. The barrier versions
_usually contain zinc, which is great in treating eczema. Also, read ingredient labels for any known allergies or
_triggers. And always stay away from fragrance or perfume. Natural, unscented, zinc based sunscreens with as
_few ingredients as possible, are safest. -
Wear SPF Clothing – If you're not the sunscreen type
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