Does Eczema get worse in Spring?

I really love Spring. It’s by far my favourite season and I know it is for many people. There’s only one thing that makes me nervous about springtime and that’s coping with my toddler’s eczema in the warmer weather.

Why can spring make eczema worse?

Heat is a really common trigger for eczema. Also, when the weather heats up we tend to use air conditioning which can dry the skin. Dry skin leads to worsening eczema symptoms.

It’s important this time of year to update your baby’s eczema management plan. I use the management plan offered by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy.

Here a few things I remind myself of this time of year with Spring now here to help manage my toddler’s eczema…

• Pick the time of day you go outside

As the weather heats up I organise our day so we are out early in the morning or later in the afternoon. To help manage my toddler’s eczema we always avoid the hottest part of the day and I use the sunsmart app to this find out. During Spring, and heading into the hotter months both my toddlers love playing with water in the backyard to stay cool so this is often our afternoon activity.

• Buy the hat with the widest brim and don’t forget to put it on your toddler

That’s all I have to say on this one. Oh, and where possible try to keep your toddler in the shade.

• Choose to swim in sea water

I know with swimming lessons in chlorinated pools this can be really hard – so if you do have to swim in chlorinated pools make sure you shower your baby straight after to rinse off the chlorine, pat dry and moisturise, moisturise, moisturise.

• Prevent and manage sunburn

Apply an all-natural SPF 50+ sunscreen whenever your baby might be exposed to the suns rays. If your child gets sunburn make sure you keep her skin really well moisturised and make sure they drink plenty of water. An oatmeal bath soak will also help to keep their skin hydrated.

• Wear loose, cotton clothing

Cotton clothing just breathes better than other fabrics which will help stop your baby sweating and looser clothing doesn’t tend to irritate the skin like tight fitting clothes.

This blog post was brought to you and your baby with love by Julia and the itchy baby co. team. X

Disclaimer: Information provided is of a general nature only, and you should always consult your medical professional.