The winter weather typically triggers the onset of coughs, colds and flu among the UK population but it can also make dermatitis and other skin conditions worse.
The combination of the cold temperature outside and the dry air caused by heaters inside makes dermatitis and eczema flare up, and sufferers experience an increase in the sore, cracked and irritated skin associated with the condition. Spending time indoors where the central heating’s cranked up higher than normal can make skin dry out quicker than usual.
So if you suffer from dermatitis, how can you stop it getting worse this winter?
Clothing
The first thing to consider is clothing. Dermatitis responds to the changes in temperature between the outdoors and the indoors so maintaining your body’s temperature, and the affected areas in particular, will lessen the affects. Put your winter clothing on before you go outside so they stay warm, especially gloves as the hands are one area commonly affected by eczema and dermatitis but hats and scarves plus a coat will help your whole body stay warm. And when indoors, choose clothing that’s loose fitting and comfortable against your skin such as those made from natural fibres as they are less likely to cause irritation.
Moisturise regularly
Moisturising creams and lotions can help limit the symptoms of dermatitis so make sure you apply them regularly during winter. If you’ve been prescribed cream or other medication by your GP keep on top of it so it works properly. Moisturising isn’t just about relieving the painful effects of dermatitis, it’s also about protecting your skin from what the worst of the winter weather can throw at you. Also moisturise after washing your hands and washing up as these expose your skin to sudden changes in temperature. It’s a good idea to wear rubber gloves to wash up and don’t use red-hot water wherever possible.
Keep hydrated
If you’re not properly hydrated, your skin will naturally become drier than normal so keep your liquid levels topped up. Water is the best way to do this but drinking hot drinks will also help. Don’t hold your hands round cups full of tea or coffee for too long though, as this will only aggravate things.
Humidify your home
To counteract the dry conditions in your home, investing in a humidifier can solve the problem if nothing else works but it’s quite a radical step.
The main types of dermatitis affected by the cold weather are: atopic (common in hay fever and asthma sufferers); irritant contact dermatitis (often caused by chemicals and cleaning products), and allergic contact dermatitis (where the sufferer becomes allergic to a substance they may come into contact every day) so if you suffer from any of these, it’s important you do what you can to stop the conditions getting worse.
Like any medical condition, you should always consult with your GP if your condition gets worse at any time, not just during the winter. Medical advice should also be sought if you are thinking of stopping or changing your medication for dermatitis.
If you believe that your dermatitis has developed as a result of your work, you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation. Call us on 0800 028 2060 for more information or contact us online here.