8 Ways to Avoid Atopic Dermatitis Flare-Ups in the Summer

For some people with atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, summer isn’t always so sweet. The soaring temps and warm-weather activities like swimming and sunbathing can trigger atopic dermatitis.

“Although winter is actually the most common time for flares to occur, eczema can flare year-round,” says Shari Marchbein, MD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Health System in New York City. Several aspects of summer — such as increased heat, sweating, seasonal allergens, and certain sunscreens — can trigger flare-ups.

The good news is you can be proactive about minimizing these risks. Here are eight strategies for limiting atopic dermatitis flare-ups in the summer.

1. Stay Cool, Avoid Sweating, and Drink Enough Water

One reason summertime atopic dermatitis flare-ups might occur is the sweating that increased heat and humidity can trigger, says Susan Bard, MD, a dermatologist with Vive Dermatology Surgery and Aesthetics in Brooklyn, New York.

“Sweat contains various salts that can be irritating to broken skin, such as eczema skin,” Dr. Bard says. More specifically, Bard advises that sweat can contain the following:

• Zinc
• Copper
• Iron
• Nickel
• Cadmium
• Lead
• Manganese
• Sodium
• Chloride

The obvious first step is to try to minimize sweating. “The most important strategies are staying cool by avoiding excessively warm temperatures and reducing sweating,” says Daniel P. Friedmann, MD, a dermatologist with Westlake Dermatology in Austin.

Bard notes that this might mean sticking to the shade when you’re outside or staying indoors in an air-conditioned environment when the temperatures climb. (You may want to consider using a humidifier if your air conditioner dries out the air in your home too much.)

Be sure to drink plenty of water, too. That will help keep your body at a normal temperature. And opt for wide-brimmed hats and loose-fitting clothes in breathable fabrics and light colors that’ll reflect the sun (think wicking shirts and cotton).

2. Choose a Physical (or Mineral) Sunscreen

Slathering on sunscreen can also cause eczema flares if you don’t choose an eczema-friendly sun protection product.

Bard says choosing a physical sunscreen (sometimes called a mineral sunscreen) versus a chemical one is the best option for people with atopic dermatitis. “Some chemical sunscreens can be irritating to sensitive skin,” she says.

If this happens to you, you can request a patch test from your allergist or dermatologist to identify which ingredient is bothering you and avoid products containing it.

3. Consider Phototherapy to Prevent Flares

“Controlled exposure to ultraviolet light during the daytime can improve eczema and prevent flares due to the anti-inflammatory properties of ultraviolet B wavelengths,” Dr. Friedmann says.

• Topical treatments
• Biologics
• Oral immunosuppressants
• Other medications
• Wet wrap therapy

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4. Change Out of Wet Clothing as Soon as You Can

5. Use an Air Purifier to Battle Environmental Triggers

Seasonal environmental factors could also be to blame for summer eczema. “An increase in allergens in the environment — pollen, for example — can incite histamine release, which causes itching,” Friedmann says.

Consider buying an air purifier for your home to help remove dust, pollen, and other allergens from the air, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in the department of dermatology and an associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

“These air particles can drive allergic reactions in the skin when you inhale them,” says Dr. Zeichner, adding that more research is necessary to prove that air purifiers truly benefit people who have atopic dermatitis. Zeichner recommends opting for a HEPA purifier with a carbon filter for added protection.

6. Rinse Off Immediately After You Go Swimming

7. Bathe or Shower Regularly to Keep Skin Clean

8. Moisturize With Ceramides to Restore the Skin’s Barrier

Your defense? A moisturizer that contains ceramides. “It can help restore the skin’s protective barrier and hydration,” Dr. Marchbein says. She recommends applying the moisturizer within 60 seconds of getting out of the shower for best results.