Winter brings many delights, but dry, itchy skin is not one of them. You may enjoy staying indoors in a warmer environment when it gets chilly outside, but the indoor heat can also dry out your skin. Whether you are currently suffering from eczema or want to prevent a flare-up, consider these eight tips.

Run the humidifier

Having some moisture in the air will help alleviate eczema symptoms. Running a humidifier during the winter months will add moisture to the air inside your home, which in turn makes your skin less dry.

Take shorter showers

Taking shorter showers is better for your skin. It’s also better for the environment, and it will save money on your utility bills! Besides reducing the amount of time spent in the shower, try taking a shower at a cooler temperature to avoid drying out your skin.

Use lotion daily

Experts recommend using a heavy-duty moisturizer at least twice daily to make your skin less sensitive. Sensitive skin is caused when there is damage to the skin’s natural barrier, increasing the skin’s exposure to irritants and environmental.

Use natural fabrics

Although it’s natural to throw on extra layers in the winter, the fabrics you wear can exacerbate eczema. Before buying a long-sleeve shirt or jacket, make sure that it is made out of natural fabrics such as cashmere, cotton, or silk. Hypoallergenic and antimicrobial materials are also good options. Avoid polyester or wool if you have sensitive skin, as those fabrics can make your eczema worse.

Exfoliate lightly

Exfoliating your skin regularly can keep it looking and feeling fresh. But if you have eczema, less is more when it comes to exfoliation. Experts recommend a gentle exfoliation once a week, or twice at most if you have sensitive skin. Additionally, look for exfoliating scrubs made with honey, as they are gentler on your skin.

Avoid irritants

Without even knowing it, your skin can come into contact with many irritants during the day. One major source of irritation is laundry detergent and dryer sheets. Look for detergents that are free of dyes and detergents if you are looking to minimize the effects of eczema. Dry cleaning can also add chemicals to your clothes that irritate.

Use antioxidant serums

Antioxidant serums are an excellent tool to add to your skincare kit. However, avoid using antioxidant gels, which are often alcohol-based and can cause your skin to dry out even more.

Seek medical treatment

If nothing seems to work, it’s time to seek medical treatment. Your irritated skin may be due to another cause, such as Las Vegas allergies. In that case, you’ll need to go for allergy testing to get proper treatment.

If you are suffering from allergies and asthma, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Tottori, an allergy specialist in Las Vegas, with your concerns today. You can easily make an appointment online or by phone at (702) 240 4233.