Managing Summer Eczema

According to Ayurveda, primary driver of eczema is an impaired digestive fire (Agni”), which in turn is caused by unsuitable diet, lifestyle and environmental factors. When the digestive fire is imbalanced, either too high or too low, it causes some food to convert to toxins (“Ama”). These toxins then circulate throughout the body, and are deposited on the superficial fascia, which can leave the skin feeling and looking dry, causing irritation, scaling or inflammation and infection.

Eczema can manifest itself in various forms depending on the type of imbalance, it can be dry and scaly or hot with boils and blisters. The presence of moist eczema means that Pitta (fire and water) and Kapha (water and earth) are out of balance where as dry lesions generally indicate a Vata (Space and Air) imbalance. Summer is Pitta season and the hot weather may often expedite your body’s ability to begin an imbalance which may result in summer time eczema.

Here are 5 tips for managing eczema during the summer:

• Avoid triggers: Summer can bring a variety of triggers that can worsen eczema symptoms, such as heat, sweat, chlorine, and sun exposure. Avoiding these triggers as much as possible can help prevent flare-ups.
• Keep skin cool: Staying cool and dry is important for managing eczema in the summer. You can do this by wearing loose, breathable clothing, taking cool showers, and using a fan or air conditioning to keep your environment cool.
• Moisturize regularly: Moisturizing your skin regularly is essential for managing eczema, especially during the summer months. Choose a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer and apply it to your skin several times a day, especially after showering or swimming.
• Use sunscreen: Sun exposure can trigger eczema flare-ups, so it’s important to use sunscreen when you’re outdoors. Choose a sunscreen that is specifically designed for sensitive skin and is free from fragrances and other irritants. Read our blog on natural sunscreen!
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is important for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and avoid sugary drinks or alcohol, which can dehydrate your skin.

These tips can help you manage eczema during the summer months and prevent flare-ups.