For some people summertime is the best time of the year. Kids are out of school, it’s vacation time and the weather’s warm. But for people with eczema it can be a challenging time of the year. Sweating happens to everyone - it's the body’s way of cooling off. Perspiration is mostly made of water together with urea, lactate, and minerals such as sodium.
For people with eczema, sweat can dry out the skin through the loss of fluids, and the sodium in sweat can further dehydrate the skin. Sweat can sting and aggravate eczema. My son usually starts getting a rash under his arms and around his waist this time of year. We have some tips and found some products worth checking out to help make this summer a cool and comfortable one.
Tips for Managing Summertime and Eczema:
- Wear loose, lightweight clothing made with soft wicking materials such as TENCEL®/lyocell, Modal®, Bamboo Rayon. Check out these bamboo lined shorts!
- You can protect yourself from the sun with lightweight clothing that contains an SPF.
- Tencel tops and pants can prevent eczema flares.
- Kids can get sweaty sitting in car seats. We just saw an ad for this car seat cover made with TENCEL® . The company website says "The CLIMATIC seat covers effectively reduce sweating while offering the best seating comfort."
- Apply mineral based, unscented, alcohol free, and broad-spectrum sunscreen whenever you’re out and about. Look for products made for sensitive skin and that won’t block pores. If you’re trying something new do a small patch test first to see if there’s a reaction before slathering all over your body. If you’re concerned about what’s in your sunscreen check out the environmental working group website list of safest sunscreens.
- Bring portable washcloths to wipe away sweat. Here's an alcohol and paraben free option made with TENCEL®.
- Look for shade if you're going to be outside for a long time or try a dip in the pool.
- Shower with an alcohol free, sensitive skin cleanser after playing outside and sweating. Apply your favorite emollient after bathing to damp skin.
- Sleep in sheets made of cool linen or TENCEL® and use a fan nearby to help cool you down. Make sure to wash sheets regularly.
- Applying a wet wrap sleeve to arms and legs can be a quick way to cool down, similar to using a cooling rag, but it will stay in place.
We hope these tips help you stay cool while you have some summertime fun!
This information is not meant to replace a visit to a physician or a physician’s advice. Always consult your doctor about your medical conditions. AD RescueWear does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any condition.