Eczema is a common skin condition impacting millions worldwide — but its prominence doesn’t make it any less challenging to manage. This rings particularly true during colder months when symptoms are exacerbated. Cold weather, dry air, and indoor heating can strip your skin of its natural moisture, weakening the skin barrier and increasing the likelihood of flare-ups. Although this seasonal shift into fall and winter can increase eczema, the best way to manage your symptoms is by understanding why they happen.
Symptom: Dry, Flaky Skin
Cold winds and dry, low-humidity air during fall and winter can dehydrate the skin, leading to flakiness and scaling. The lack of moisture in the environment makes it difficult for the skin to absorb and lock in hydration. This leaves dry, rough skin prone to flare-ups.
Solution: ZO® Hydrating Crème
To combat severely dry and flaky skin, we recommend ZO® Hydrating Crème. It’s gentle enough for sensitive, eczema-prone skin and at the same time works to deeply hydrate and soothe irritation. Formulated with colloidal oatmeal, this key ingredient helps reduce itching and redness.
Additionally, invest in a humidifier. Adding moisture to the air will help your skin retain its natural hydration, making your ZO® Hydrating Crème more effective.
Symptom: Redness and Inflammation
Cold weather can strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it inflamed, red, and highly sensitive. This inflammation is a common reaction when the skin’s barrier is compromised and unable to defend against environmental irritants.
Solution: ZO® Rozatrol®
This serum is specially designed to treat redness and inflammation. The multi-action formula reduces excess surface oil, which can contribute to redness, and provides enzymatic exfoliation to smooth the skin without irritation.
Symptom: Itchiness & Irritation
Eczema can cause intense itching and scratching only makes it worse. The combination of cold autumn air mixed with the back and forth in indoor heating can make it worse.
Solution: ZO® Renewal Crème
To reduce irritation, we recommend ZO® Renewal Crème. This formula contains oat kernel and plankton extract, which are known for their soothing properties, reducing the urge to scratch — something critical for those suffering from eczema.
Another way to help reduce inflammation? Take shorter, cooler showers and apply ZO ® Renewal Crème immediately to lock in moisture while the skin is still damp.
Symptom: Cracked, Painful Skin
During colder months, eczema can cause cracks in the skin, especially on the hands, feet, and other areas prone to dryness. Not only is it painful, it can make you more vulnerable to infections.
Solution: ZO® Recovery Crème
For cracked, painful skin, ZO® Recovery Crème is a lifesaver. The rich ingredients like squalane and shea butter help create a protective barrier over the skin, preventing further damage and locking in moisture to reduce the risk of cracks deepening or becoming infected.
If you find your skin cracking frequently, be sure to also watch what you wear. Wool and synthetic fabrics can trap sweat and cause additional irritation. Opt instead for cotton-based options.
Eczema flare-ups in fall and winter can be challenging, but with the right approach and effective products like those from ZO® Skin Health, you can protect and soothe your skin. For more info or to book your appointment, call us: (805) 544-5567.
