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How to Prevent Eczema Flare-Ups During the Winter

Published on January 30, 2025

Winter’s chill can be harsh on everyone, especially for those with eczema. The cold, dry air can trigger painful and unsightly flare-ups. If you’re looking for ways to prevent eczema symptoms, you’ve come to the right place. 

At Westchester Center for Dermatology, we understand the challenges of managing eczema. This guide provides practical winter eczema tips to help you keep your skin healthy and comfortable all season long.

Why Winter Can Be Tough on Eczema-Prone Skin

Let’s start with the basics. Winter is the ultimate eczema trigger. Between the dry outdoor air, indoor heating systems zapping moisture, and those long hot showers, your skin is up against a lot. 

If you’re not careful, you might notice increased itching, redness, and inflammation. Many Westchester Center for Dermatology patients experience heightened symptoms during colder months. A proper winter skincare routine for eczema can make all the difference.

Eczema Tips to Keep Flare-Ups at Bay During Winter

Here are some practical, dermatologist-approved strategies to help prevent eczema flare-ups during the winter:

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Dry skin and eczema are common during the winter. The first step in prevention is keeping your skin as hydrated as possible. Invest in a high-quality moisturizer specifically designed for eczema-prone skin. 

Look for fragrance-free creams containing skin-soothing ingredients like ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, or shea butter. Some of the best creams for eczema in winter include options.

Dermatologists recommend slathering on moisturizer after a warm shower to lock in hydration. This is the most effective eczema treatment and cold-weather care.

Use a Humidifier

Indoor heating systems might keep you warm, but they suck the moisture right out of the air. That environment is a breeding ground for eczema flare-ups. 

A humidifier helps restore moisture and prevent skin from drying out. Aim for a humidity level between 40% and 60% for optimal skin health.

Stick to Gentle Skincare Products

This is the time to simplify your skincare. Harsh soaps, exfoliants, or fragranced products can trigger irritation. Choose a mild cleanser and avoid anything that leaves your skin feeling “squeaky clean” (that usually means it’s stripped of its natural oils).

Your winter skincare routine for eczema should focus on nourishment and protection. Remember to apply sunscreen! SPF protects your skin from harmful UV rays.

Layer Appropriately

What you wear matters. Scratchy fabrics like wool can irritate eczema-prone skin. Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton as your base layer. When wearing a heavier sweater or coat, make sure your skin isn’t in direct contact.

Say No to Long, Hot Showers

We get it—a long, steamy shower feels incredible when it’s freezing outside. Unfortunately, hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and worsen your eczema symptoms. 

Stick to lukewarm water and shorten your showers by five to ten minutes. Better yet, finish off with an immediate layer of moisturizer to seal in hydration.

Managing Eczema Triggers in Winter

Knowing what triggers your symptoms is half the battle in dry skin and eczema prevention. Some common eczema triggers in winter include:

  • Cold, windy weather
  • Dust mites
  • Stress from the holiday chaos
  • Overheating

Consulting with a dermatologist such as Dr. David Kriegel is essential if you struggle to pinpoint or manage your triggers. We can help you with dry skin and eczema treatment plans that fit your needs.

Dr. David Kriegel was selected by his peers as an outstanding practicing doctor in New York in 2024. After an extensive nomination and research process conducted by MSP Communications, the results were published in New York Super Doctors, a special advertising section in the May 4, 2025 issue of The New York Times Sunday Magazine.

What If You’re Already Experiencing a Flare-Up?

Sometimes, even with the best prevention strategies, flare-ups happen. When they do, don’t panic. 

Focus on soothing your skin with products designed for eczema. This may include topical corticosteroids, antihistamines for itching, or a thick layer of an emollient cream before bed. You might also want to consider professional eczema treatments for more severe symptoms.

If you’re unsure how to manage eczema flare-ups or feel like your symptoms are spiraling out of control, contact our board-certified dermatologists for a treatment plan.

Upgrade Your Eczema Skin Care Routine

We know eczema can feel like an uphill battle during the colder months. Proper care and attention can dramatically reduce flare-ups. 

Start by incorporating these winter eczema tips into your daily routine, investing in high-quality moisturizers, and staying consistent with hydration. 

If you still need professional help, the Westchester Center for Dermatology is just an appointment away. Schedule your consultation and keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and flare-free this season! 

Westchester Center for Dermatology is located in Scarsdale and near patients in Hasting on Hudson, Crestwood, Tuckahoe, Thornwood, Pleasantville, Harrison, Hawthorne, and Purchase.