Why Is My Eczema Worse When the Weather Changes?

If your skin seems to flare up with the change of seasons, you’re not imagining it. People with eczema often notice that the symptoms worsen with changes in temperature, humidity, and environmental exposure. 

Weather can disrupt your skin barrier and trigger inflammation, leading to eczema flare-ups.  

At Allergy and Asthma of Prosper and Celina, Texas, our team evaluates your eczema symptoms and creates a personalized plan for managing them year-round. 

What is eczema?

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy, irritated skin.  It weakens the skin barrier, leaving you susceptible to external irritants such as pollen, dust, or mold.

Fortunately, eczema is not contagious, but it can accompany seasonal allergies or asthma. 

Why the weather can make eczema flare up 

In warmer climates, like here in Texas, a combination of heat, humidity, and environmental factors can trigger flare-ups. 

Sweat is a trigger

As the weather heats up, your body sweats more. Sweat contains salt, which can irritate sensitive skin and increase itching. 

Heat increases inflammation

When it’s hotter, your blood vessels dilate, which increases skin inflammation. This can lead to skin redness, itching, and, in some cases, a faster onset of flare-ups. 

In other words, your skin becomes more reactive before you even sweat. It can become a cycle of itchy misery. 

Humidity

Heat and humidity ramp up the perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast to thrive. If you have eczema, it can increase your risk of skin infections and make flare-ups more persistent. 

More time outdoors 

When you’re outside, environmental triggers like pollen and plant allergens surround you and can irritate your skin. Research shows a potential overlap between eczema and asthma. While more research is needed, eczema may be the first step in what allergists call the “atopic march.”  It’s a possible first step in a weakened skin barrier, which can lead to allergic conditions like asthma. 

Unfortunately, there are many potential triggers for sensitive skin in the Texas climate, including temperature changes from hot, humid weather to air conditioning.  

Why these triggers matter 

Because eczema weakens the skin’s natural barrier, it’s easier for irritants and potential allergens to enter the skin and activate the immune system. This can cause more itchy red skin. 

To control your symptoms and find itchy skin relief, you want to understand what causes your eczema flare-ups so you can reduce potential triggers. 

The team at Allergy and Asthma of Prosper and Celina can identify your triggers and help you find relief. You can call us to make an appointment or schedule online.