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Psoriasis, eczema, allergy manifestations — these and other weather-related skin conditions are covered in WeatherWell Journal!

<p>Have you ever ended up with a red, burning face after a long bike ride, skiing trip, or just being outside on a <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/weather-360/temperature/windchill" target="_blank">cold windy day</a>?</p><p id="appendcover">Well, this is probably windburn (sometimes also spelled <em>wind burn</em>).</p><p id="whatis">While many people dismiss this redness and irritation as a natural result of <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/sport/winter-workouts" target="_blank">being outside in windy weather</a>, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Even though most people feel better after a few days, windburn still involves skin damage.</p><h2>What is windburn?&nbsp;</h2><p id="whatis">Windburn is the red, painful, and sometimes flaking skin you get after being exposed to cold, windy weather. It feels a lot like sunburn, leading many people to wonder if these two conditions are in fact the same.</p><h3>Are sunburn and windburn the same?&nbsp;</h3><p>The <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn" target="_blank">symptoms of sunburn</a> and windburn are very similar. This is why some scientists believe that they’re essentially the same condition.</p><p>Others argue that windburn is more of an irritation caused by the wind stripping off the layer of moisture that protects the skin, and sunburn is damage by <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/uv-rays" target="_blank">ultraviolet (UV) rays</a>.</p><p>However, these conditions often occur together. According to the <a href="https://www.skincancer.org/blog/against-the-wind/" target="_blank">Skin Cancer Foundation</a>, exposure to wind can dry out and weaken the outer layer of the skin that serves as a protective barrier. Without this protection, the lower layers of the skin are more vulnerable to UV radiation.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Old man with a windburn outdoors" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt1a31ab8f90bcb0ae/627a61aa5f7b601eaaec1159/An_old_man_with_a_windburn_spending_time_outdoors.png" /></figure><p>This usually happens to people who go skiing or hiking in snowy weather. Snow reflects sunlight, exposing your skin to ultraviolet rays from a variety of angles and causing sunburn. At the same time, cold wind <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/natural-dry-skin-remedies" target="_blank">makes the skin dry</a> and more prone to damage.</p><p>Because of this, it makes sense to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/uv-protective-clothing" target="_blank">protect your skin</a> against the wind and the sun&nbsp;simultaneously.</p><h3>How long does windburn take to heal?&nbsp;</h3><p>Windburn usually goes away in a few days if you moisturize the affected skin and don’t pick at it.</p><p>However, severe windburn can cause blisters on the skin, which won’t go away as quickly. If you develop blisters, ask your doctor for advice.</p><h2 id="symptoms">What are the symptoms of windburn?&nbsp;</h2><p>The symptoms of windburn are similar to sunburn and can include:</p><ul><li><strong>Redness of the affected area</strong></li><li><strong>Dry skin that can be painful to the touch</strong></li><li><strong>Peeling and flaking</strong></li><li><strong>Inflammation</strong></li><li><strong>Blisters</strong></li></ul><h2 id="prevention">How to prevent a face windburn</h2><p>Windburn usually affects the face because the other parts of your body are protected by clothing. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to prevent windburn on your face.</p><h3>Avoid harsh skincare products before heading outside</h3><p>Chemical peels and alcohol-containing skin toners have their place in many people’s skincare routines. However, they're not the best choice in cold and windy weather.</p><blockquote>Make sure that your winter skincare routine is built around gentle cleansing products and high-quality moisturizers.</blockquote><p>If you’re not sure which products to choose, book an appointment with a dermatologist. They’ll identify what your skin needs and suggest appropriate products that won’t break the bank.</p><h3>Check medication leaflets and ask your doctor for advice</h3><p>Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to wind and sunlight. For example, tretinoin (a popular treatment for acne) can make your face extremely prone to sunburn and dryness <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521" target="_blank">during the first six months of use</a>.</p><p>Other medications that cause sun sensitivity include:</p><ul><li><strong>Certain kinds of antibiotics</strong></li><li><strong>Tricyclic antidepressants</strong></li><li><strong>Blood pressure medications</strong></li><li><strong>Antihistamines (allergy medications)</strong></li><li><strong>Popular painkillers like ibuprofen</strong></li><li><strong>Birth control pills</strong></li><li><strong>Medications used in chemotherapy</strong></li></ul><p>If you take any medication on a regular basis, check its patient information leaflet to find out if skin sensitivity is listed as a side effect. Discuss your concerns with your doctor; they might suggest different medications or offer valuable tips for managing this side effect.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Woman packing sunscreen as a windburn prevention method" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltb89d68a529fbf58f/627a59cc5f7b601eaaec112a/Woman_packing_sunscreen_as_a_sunburn_prevention_method.png" /></figure><h3>Use sunscreen, even on cloudy days</h3><p>Many people believe that they should only wear sunscreen on hot, sunny summer days. However, ultraviolet rays can penetrate clouds, so dreary weather doesn’t fully prevent you from getting sunburned.</p><p id="appendbanner">Sunscreen is even more important on snowy days because <a href="https://www.amap.no/documents/doc/albedo-and-reflective-propertis-of-various-types-of-snow-and-water/971" target="_blank">snow is the most reflective natural surface on Earth</a>. In fact, it reflects up to 80 percent of the ultraviolet rays that reach the ground!</p><p>If you wear foundation or face powder, you can look for products that act as sunscreen and have a moderate to high SPF. But no matter what kind of sunscreen you use, don’t forget to reapply it every few hours!</p><p>Remember that sunscreen is not the ultimate solution because it doesn’t fully block all types of UV rays. In addition to this, some people are <a href="https://acaai.org/resource/skin-symptoms-itching-hives-etc/" target="_blank">allergic to sunscreen</a> and have to protect their skin with clothes and hats instead.</p><h3>Wear sunglasses (and a hat)</h3><p>Sports sunglasses don’t just make you look cool. They also <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/beauty/winter-sunglasses" target="_blank">protect the delicate skin around your eyes</a> from wind and UV rays, effectively reducing the risk of windburn.</p><p>A balaclava is another good addition to your winter wardrobe because it protects your nose, cheeks, and chin. It’s especially useful if you’re allergic to sunscreen or use medications that make your skin vulnerable to sun and wind damage. Alternatively, you can cover your face with a big, warm scarf — just make sure it isn’t itchy!</p><p>Last but not least, don’t forget to wear a nice cozy winter hat to protect your forehead from the sun. Hats aren’t just for staying warm!</p><h2>How to prevent windburn on your lips</h2><p>The skin on your lips is very delicate, so it needs extra protection during the colder months. Here are some tips to prevent windburn on your lips:</p><ul><li><strong>Wear moisturizing lip balm with SPF protection (it’s like sunscreen for the lips!).</strong></li><li><strong>Consider using a humidifier when you’re inside because dry air can lead to dry skin.</strong></li><li><strong>Avoid licking your lips, especially in windy weather.</strong></li><li><strong>Cover your mouth with a scarf or a balaclava (as long as you feel comfortable).</strong></li></ul><h2 id="treatment">Windburn treatment</h2><p>We’ve got good news: windburn usually goes away in a few days. Here are some simple tips to make healing even faster:</p><h3>Moisturize (a lot)</h3><p>Moisturizing creams can be applied several times a day. So don’t skimp on them. Just <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/beauty/winter-skincare-tips" target="_blank">pamper your windburned skin</a> as often as you want to.</p><p class="textbox">Is your skin sensitive to weather changes? <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/weatherwell-health-forecast/id1565394543" target="_self">Install Weatherwell and stay ahead of the curve!</a></p><p>When washing your face, look for cleansing products that help the skin maintain moisture. Avoid alcohol-based products or anything that can leave your skin dry, like clay masks.</p><h3>Set those exfoliating scrubs aside</h3><p>Exfoliating your skin helps you get rid of dead cells and impurities that can clog your pores. However, it will have to wait until your windburn has healed. When your skin is already damaged, trying to scrub it will slow down the healing process.</p><h3>Don’t pick at your skin</h3><p>While it may be very tempting to bite your windburned lips or scratch that weird itch on your nose or cheeks, try to avoid it.&nbsp;</p><p>Picking at your skin or biting your lips can damage your skin even further. If the itch is irresistible, try a hydrocortisone cream. While these creams aren’t suited for long-term use, they can be very effective at calming irritated skin.</p><h3>Say no to dry air</h3><p>When you heat your home in winter, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/allergies/dry-indoor-air" target="_blank">the air becomes dry</a>, sometimes so dry that it will make your windburned skin uncomfortable.</p><p>If you don’t have a humidifier, you can combat dry air with super-simple methods such as:</p><ul><li><strong>Placing bowls of water around the room</strong></li><li><strong>Hanging laundry out to dry instead of using the dryer</strong></li><li><strong>Cooking meals that involve boiling water on a stove (like pasta or potatoes)</strong></li><li><strong>Spraying water into the air using a spray bottle</strong></li><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman is using ckincare products for windburn" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blte20c682872ecc1e1/627a671ba1a1dd2aa9f703dc/woman_uses_skincare_products_for_windburn.png" /></figure></ul><h3>Wash your face with lukewarm water</h3><p>While a hot bath can really help you unwind on a winter evening, it can also strip your skin of its natural moisture. When you’re already combating dry skin, hot water can make your condition even worse. Opt for lukewarm water until your skin has fully healed.&nbsp;</p><h3>Contact your doctor if necessary</h3><p>If you develop blisters or your symptoms don’t improve in a few days, see a doctor. They will examine your skin and prescribe stronger treatments if necessary.</p><h2>Key takeaways</h2><p>Windburn is damage to your skin caused by cold weather, wind, and possibly UV rays that pass through clouds and get reflected by snow.</p><p>The main symptoms of windburn are similar to those of sunburn. They include redness and dry skin that’s painful to the touch.</p><p>Fortunately, windburn can be prevented by wearing sunscreen, using gentle skincare products, and protecting your face with sunglasses and accessories such as hats and scarves.</p><p>Treating windburn usually takes a few days. To help your skin heal faster, apply rich moisturizing creams, avoid hot water, and try to stay away from dry air.</p>

A girl experiencing a winter face windburn

What_Is_Windburn-min.png

If your skin is unprotected in winter, you may get a windburn. Find out what a windburn really is, what the symptoms are and how to treat it.

What Is Windburn? Ultimate Guide to Windburn on Your Face and Lips

<p id="appendcover">We all love playing in the snow during cold weather. But with freezing temperatures comes the risk of frostbite. So while we know to bundle up before stepping outside, it’s also important to be aware of early signs of frostbite. </p><p id="whatis">Frostbite happens when the skin is exposed to extreme cold, causing damage to the blood vessels, nerves, and soft tissues. It can happen to anyone, so continue reading to learn about various aspects of frostbite, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.</p><h2>What is frostbite?</h2><p>Frostbite is a condition that occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze due to prolonged <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/cold-tolerance" target="_blank">exposure to cold temperatures</a>. It most commonly affects the fingers, toes, nose, ears, and chin. </p><p>The skin is composed of various layers that protect us from the elements and are a sense organ for touch. </p><blockquote>Exposure to cold temperatures, combined with wind, dampness, and a lack of proper clothing, can cause the blood vessels in the skin to constrict, reducing blood flow to the affected area. </blockquote><p>The cells die as the tissue continues to freeze, and the skin and underlying tissues become damaged.</p><p>Then, the skin becomes numb, red, blistered, and eventually blackens. The damage caused by frostbite can be permanent if left untreated. This means areas of your body affected by frostbite may never regain their full function or range of motion.</p><p>Symptoms of frostbite include:</p><ul><li><strong>Numbness</strong></li><li><strong>Tingling</strong></li><li><strong>Burning sensation</strong></li><li><strong>Pale or blue appearance of the skin</strong></li><li><strong>Swollen skin</strong></li></ul><p>If left untreated, frostbite can lead to amputation of the affected limb and permanent tissue damage. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Close-up of a hand holding ice as a way to describe how cold does it have to be to get frostbite" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltfbef2285aec6598c/640f0baff5e71610843f1e0a/Close-up_of_a_hand_holding_ice_as_a_way_to_describe_how_cold_does_it_have_to_be_to_get_frostbite.png" /></figure><p>The risk of frostbite increases with the following:</p><ul id="howcold"><li><strong>Age</strong></li><li><strong>Living in a cold climate</strong></li><li><strong>Higher altitudes</strong></li><li><strong>Living with diabetes or peripheral vascular disease</strong></li><li><strong>Obesity or being underweight</strong></li><li id="howcold"><strong>Recent injury or surgery</strong></li></ul><h2>How cold does it have to be to get frostbite?</h2><p>The temperature when you can get frostbite depends on several factors, including the <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/weather-360/temperature/windchill" target="_blank">windchill</a>, humidity, and level of activity. Generally speaking, frostbite can occur at temperatures as low as -15 F (-26 C) if the windchill is severe enough. </p><p id="howlong">Frostbite is not only a function of the environmental temperature but also of the duration of exposure. An individual can develop frostbite in relatively mild temperatures over a prolonged period. So, being in low temperatures for an extended period, even with temperatures above freezing, can put you at risk of frostbite.</p><h2>How long does it take to get frostbite?</h2><p>The amount of time it takes for frostbite to develop can vary depending on the temperature and the exposure conditions, as well as the individual’s susceptibility. So, how long does it take for frostbite to set in?</p><blockquote>In freezing temperatures, frostbite can occur in just a few minutes, especially in exposed areas, such as the fingers, toes, ears, and nose. </blockquote><p>However, it can take several hours or even days of exposure in lower temperatures for frostbite to develop. </p><p id="stages">The duration of exposure to cold is not the only factor, as the body’s response can be different for each person. In addition, circulatory issues, diabetes, smoking, and peripheral artery disease can increase the rate of frostbite development.</p><h2>What are the stages of frostbite?</h2><p>The severity of frostbite can be classified using a frostbite chart. The stages of frostbite are as follows.</p><h3>First-degree frostnip </h3><p>First-degree frostnip is the mildest form. It occurs when the skin and underlying tissues become very cold but not frozen. The damage is limited to the skin’s surface at this stage and reversible with proper treatment.</p><p>Symptoms of first-degree frostnip may include:</p><ul><li><strong>A white or blue appearance of the skin</strong></li><li><strong>Numbness or tingling</strong></li><li><strong>A burning or itching sensation</strong></li></ul><p id="appendbanner">At this stage, the affected skin may appear pale and feel cold. It may also feel numb or tingly. The treatment for frostnip typically involves rewarming the affected area using warm water. </p><h3>Second-degree superficial frostbite</h3><p>Second-degree superficial frostbite, also known as partial thickness frostbite, is a more advanced stage of frostbite than frostnip but not as severe as deep frostbite. In this stage, the damage extends deeper into the skin, into the second layer of skin called the dermis.</p><p>Symptoms of second-degree superficial frostbite may include:</p><ul><li><strong>Blisters filled with clear, straw-colored fluid on the skin</strong></li><li><strong>Hardening and pale or waxy appearance of the skin</strong></li><li><strong>Swelling and redness</strong></li><li><strong>Loss of sensation or a burning or itching sensation in the affected area</strong></li><li><strong>Numbness or tingling</strong></li></ul><p>At this stage, the damage is still reversible, and healing can occur with proper medical treatment.</p><h3>Third-degree deep frostbite</h3><p>Third-degree deep frostbite, also known as full-thickness frostbite, is the most severe stage of frostbite. At this stage, the damage extends deep into the tissue, including the muscles, tendons, and bones. The affected area becomes black and hard, with a loss of sensation and muscle stiffness. If necessary, the tissue may be dead and require surgical intervention, including debridement (removing the dead tissue) and amputation.</p><p>Symptoms of third-degree deep frostbite may include:</p><ul><li><strong>Blackened, hardened, and cold skin</strong></li><li><strong>Loss of sensation in the affected area</strong></li><li><strong>Swelling</strong></li><li><strong>Blisters filled with black or yellow fluid</strong></li><li><strong>Numbness or tingling</strong></li></ul><p id="icepack">Damage caused by third-degree deep frostbite is generally not reversible. It can result in permanent injury, disfigurement, and long-term functional impairments. In addition, there is a high risk of amputation.</p><h2>Can you get frostbite from an ice pack?</h2><p>It is possible to get frostbite from an ice pack, although it is unlikely under normal conditions. </p><p>An ice pack is typically used to reduce inflammation or to provide cold therapy to an injury. The pack is usually wrapped in a towel or protective covering to prevent direct contact between the skin and the ice. The pack is also not applied to the skin for extended periods in a way that would cause freezing of the skin and underlying tissues.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A person holding an ice pack to their arm at risk of getting frostbite from an ice pack" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltf15caf60d60f89c6/640f0c9cba95fe6a2554bffc/A_person_holding_an_ice_pack_to_their_arm.png" /></figure><p id="prevention">However, if an ice pack is applied directly to the skin without a protective covering or left on for an extended period, it could cause frostbite. Additionally, certain medical conditions can increase the susceptibility to frostbite, such as diabetes and Raynaud’s disease.</p><h2>What is the best prevention for frostbite?</h2><p>The best prevention for frostbite is to protect yourself from the cold and be aware of the signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Some ways to prevent frostbite include the following:</p><ul id="tips"><li><strong>Dress warmly.</strong> <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/sport/winter-workout-clothes" target="_blank">Wear multiple layers of clothing</a> to trap heat, including a moisture-wicking inner layer, insulation in the middle, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Cover exposed skin, including your head, face, and hands.</li><li><strong>Keep an eye on the windchill factor.</strong> It can tell you how cold it actually is outside. It takes into account the air temperature and the wind speed. If it’s cold outside and there’s a breeze, you’ll feel even colder because of the windchill. Knowing that, you can dress accordingly and be more comfortable outdoors.</li><li><strong>Stay dry. </strong>Wet clothing can increase the <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/hypothermia-symptoms" target="_blank">risk of hypothermia</a> and frostbite, so it’s important to stay dry. If you get wet, change into dry clothing as soon as possible.</li><li><strong>Limit time in the cold. </strong>The longer you spend in cold temperatures, the greater your risk of frostbite. If you must be outside in the cold, limit your time and take frequent warm-up breaks.</li><li><strong>Keep moving. </strong>Your body generates heat by moving. Keep your blood flowing by moving your fingers, toes, and other extremities.</li><li><strong>Take care of underlying medical issues. </strong>Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, peripheral artery disease, and Raynaud’s disease, can increase your risk of frostbite. It’s important to manage these conditions and take medications as prescribed.</li><li id="tips"><strong>Seek medical attention if you suspect frostbite. </strong>Early treatment can help to reduce the risk of permanent tissue damage or amputation.</li></ul><p class="textbox"><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Download WeatherWell</a> to get regular notifications to help you stay informed about upcoming weather trends that may affect you.</p><h2>What should I do if I get frostbite?</h2><p>If you suspect you have frostbite, it’s essential to take immediate action to begin treatment and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take if you have frostbite:</p><ul><li><strong>Get indoors and out of the cold.</strong> The first step is to get out of the cold and into a warm place.</li><li><strong>Rewarm the affected area. </strong>Gently rewarm the affected area using warm water, between 104 F and 108 F (40–42 C) until the skin becomes pink and warm. It’s important to be very careful when rewarming the area, as rewarming too quickly or with water that is too hot can cause tissue damage.</li><li><strong>Keep the affected area elevated. </strong>Once rewarmed, keep the affected area elevated to reduce inflammation and swelling.</li><li><strong>Monitor for signs of progression.</strong> After rewarming, monitor the affected area for signs of progression, such as blistering or blackening of the skin. If these signs appear, seek medical attention immediately.</li></ul><h2>Bottom line</h2><p>Frostbite can be very dangerous and should not be taken lightly. Frostbite can also cause permanent damage if it isn’t treated properly. Therefore, seeing a health care professional as soon as possible after frostbite is crucial. The health care professional will assess the severity of the frostbite and may provide wound care, antibiotics, and in some cases, surgery. If the frostbite is severe, hospitalization may be necessary. </p>

A pair of mittens on ice as a metaphor for the cold temperature when you can get frostbite

How_Long_Does_It_Take_to_Get_Frostbite_(1).png

What temperature can you get frostbite at? Can you get frostbite from an ice pack? Find the answers here!

How Long Does It Take to Get Frostbite? 7 FAQs About Frostbite

How Long Does It Take to Get Frostbite? Frostbite FAQs

<p id="appendcover">During the summer months, lots of us love to take advantage of the warmer temperatures by spending as much time as possible outdoors. But whether you prefer jumping in the pool or sunbathing on a beach towel, when you’re outside, you are at risk of getting a sunburn.</p><p id="howlong">Understanding how to protect your skin before it is exposed to the sun’s rays and what to do if you get burned is very important. Being proactive can significantly reduce the risks of sun-related conditions such as skin cancer and premature aging.</p><h2>How long does it take for a sunburn to go away?</h2><p>It is never fun to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn" target="_blank">get a sunburn</a>, especially if it sticks around for longer than you like. How long a sunburn lasts depends on how severely the skin was burned, and symptoms typically start to arise around four hours after exposure. Symptoms may worsen after 24 to 36 hours, and the worst pain is likely to occur 3 to 48 hours after being burned.</p><p>A mild sunburn typically takes around three days to heal, while a moderate sunburn will stick around for five days. Common symptoms of these first-degree sunburns are peeling skin, redness, warm and tight skin, soreness, and swelling.</p><p>If you have a severe sunburn, it could last for more than seven days. You may have second-degree burn symptoms such as deep red skin, pain, wet-looking or shiny skin, swelling, blistering, or white discoloration in the damaged area.</p><p class="textbox"><strong>Protect your skin</strong><strong>&nbsp;with WeatherWell!</strong><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank"><strong><br/></strong></a><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Download our app&nbsp;for free</a>&nbsp;to know when the sun is at its strongest</p><p id="tips">Whether you have a first-degree or second-degree burn, the visible symptoms will eventually go away. However, deeper damage can be permanent. <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/uv-rays" target="_blank">UVA rays</a> can damage the DNA in your skin cells. If the DNA is damaged enough, skin cancer can develop. If you are outdoors often, it is vital to get regular check-ups with a dermatologist to ensure your skin is cancer free.</p><h2>Sunburn treatment tips: Immediate relief</h2><p>One of the best ways to minimize further damage to your sunburnt skin is to <a href="https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/injured-skin/burns/treat-sunburn" target="_blank">reduce the heat</a>. As soon as you suspect that you may have a burn, get out of the sun and go indoors. Hop in a cool bath or shower, but keep the temperature moderate, as extreme temperatures can damage your skin further. Once you get out of the tub or shower, pat yourself dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing the skin and leave a little water to provide your body with moisture that you can further lock in with a lotion. This will also prevent your burn from becoming drier than it already is.</p><blockquote>Making sure you are hydrated is just as important as moisturizing your skin.&nbsp;</blockquote><p>Make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. Recommendations vary, but you can aim for about 64 ounces per day. It is especially important to drink a glass of water <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/summer-morning-routine" target="_blank">right after waking up</a>. Your body can get very dehydrated throughout the night, especially if you have a sunburn. This is because the heat of the burn tends to draw fluid to the skin’s surface to care for the wound.</p><p>If your sunburn starts to get worse and the skin blisters, avoid touching it. This means you likely have a second-degree burn, and it is important not to disrupt the healing process. Opening a wound also significantly increases the chance of infection. When you are outdoors, keep your blisters and sunburnt skin covered to prevent further sun damage. Wearing clothing made of tightly woven fabrics helps prevent light from coming through.</p><p id="remedies">You can also take over-the-counter painkillers to reduce redness, swelling, and general discomfort.</p><p><img data-image="lu0uni7vka1x" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt48b49fa586f89dbe/628e1cc7e647095bd6c82171/A_woman_with_sunburn-min.png" data-sys-asset-uid="blt48b49fa586f89dbe" alt="A woman with a sunburn"/></p><h2>Sunburn remedies</h2><p>Whether you prefer over-the-counter medication, lotions, creams, or homemade remedies, taking care of yourself after a sunburn can help reduce your symptoms. Multiple applications may be necessary for more severe burns. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have a severe burn or any complications.</p><h3>Over-the-counter medications</h3><ul><li><strong>Ibuprofen and naproxen</strong> are examples of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that can help relieve the inflammation and pain of a sunburn.</li><li>Swelling, itching, and pain can be relieved by <strong>an over-the-counter topical 1% hydrocortisone cream</strong>.</li><li><strong>Oral analgesics</strong> can help ease overall pain.</li><li><strong>Diphenhydramine</strong> is an oral antihistamine that can relieve itching from peeling skin.</li><li>Certain <strong>gels with honey</strong> can effectively prevent infection and promote healing due to the antibacterial agent present from the high sugar content. Be sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist, though, as some honey can contain bacteria and lead to infection.</li></ul><h3>What are the best lotions and creams for sunburn?</h3><ul><li><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn-lotion" target="_blank">Lotions and gels</a> containing<strong> aloe vera</strong> will be some of the most effective products for soothing and moisturizing your skin, especially if it is peeling. Studies have shown that aloe vera products heal the skin quicker than a 1% silver sulfadiazine ointment. In addition, aloe contains an anesthetic called lidocaine that can relieve pain and help with general wound repair.</li><li><strong>Vitamin E </strong>is an ingredient in lotions and creams that calms the skin by protecting it from some of the damaging effects of radiation caused by the sun’s rays.</li><li><strong>Tea tree oil</strong> is antiseptic and helps moisturize the burn.</li><li>Try to stick to lotions and creams that are <strong>lightweight and non-greasy</strong>.</li><li><strong>Do not use any oil- or petroleum-based creams</strong> because they will worsen your burn by trapping heat in the skin.</li></ul><h3>Home remedies for sunburn</h3><ul id="peeling"><li><strong>Essential oils like lavender</strong> can soothe the skin when diluted and applied in small amounts.</li><li>Apply <strong>cool milk or yogurt</strong> to your burn with a cloth to ease any discomfort. A protein film will form and provide relief and temporary protection.</li><li id="peeling"><strong>Cucumbers</strong> can be chilled, made into a paste, and applied to the burned skin. In addition, cucumbers can relieve pain due to their natural analgesic and antioxidant properties.</li></ul><p><img data-image="m1ul8ehat1wr" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltd190d5917d9d940a/628e1d0dead0d2559909c519/lotions_to_treat_sunburn-min.png" data-sys-asset-uid="bltd190d5917d9d940a" alt="Lotions to treat sunburn"/></p><p></p><h2>How to prevent and treat sunburn peeling</h2><p>If you are going to be outdoors for an extended period of time, try to plan ahead and avoid the hours between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. If you must be outside during this time, spend as much time as possible in the shade. Stay hydrated while enjoying the fresh air to keep your skin moisturized.</p><p>While you are outdoors, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/uv-protective-clothing" target="_blank">cover your skin</a> by wearing a hat, long-sleeved shirt, pants, and close-toed shoes. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on any exposed skin, especially your face. It can even be essential to wear sunscreen indoors and in your car because you can still get a sunburn through the windows.</p><p>If you do end up with a sunburn, your skin may start peeling three to eight days after the sun exposure. Picking at or peeling your skin can introduce bacteria and lead to infection, so try to resist the temptation to scratch. </p><blockquote>Applying ice wrapped in a cloth to the skin or taking a cool bath can help reduce the peeling.&nbsp;</blockquote><p>Taking cool showers helps lower the temperature of your skin and eases pain and itching. To prevent further damage to your skin, avoid exfoliating it until your burn is fully healed. Do not use water that is too hot or cold, and be gentle when you wash your skin.</p><p id="appendbanner">If you don’t feel like taking a cool shower, try an oatmeal bath instead. Colloidal oatmeal can reduce swelling and trap moisture against your skin to help the burn heal. This type of oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties, and it can be made at home. Blend up uncooked whole oats until they create a fine powder. Add one cup of the powder to a lukewarm or cool bath and soak for 10 to 15 minutes to soothe your peeling skin.</p><p>After your shower or oatmeal bath, the pores of your skin will be open. This is a great time to apply aloe vera or moisturizer to your sunburn. Doing this daily can slow or reduce the peeling, as well as calm the skin and inflammation. </p><p id="doctor">Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can also relieve your pain and soothe the skin. If your skin is peeling from a sunburn, it will typically heal within a week or less.</p><h2>When to see a doctor if you have a sunburn</h2><p>While taking the proper steps at home can greatly relieve your sunburn, some burns are too severe to tend to alone. Seeking <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sunburn/expert-answers/sunburn-treatment/faq-20057815" target="_blank">medical attention</a> should be your next step if you are experiencing any of the following:</p><ul><li><strong>High fever or chills</strong></li><li><strong>Headache and confusion</strong></li><li><strong>Severe pain</strong></li><li><strong>Dehydration or nausea</strong></li><li><strong>A skin infection with pus, swelling, or red streaks coming from a blister</strong></li><li><strong>The sunburn covers a large portion of your body and is blistering</strong></li><li><strong>The burn lasts longer than a week</strong></li><li><strong>No at-home care is helping ease the pain or redness of the burn</strong></li></ul><h2>Final thoughts</h2><p>Lots of us will experience at least one sunburn during our lifetime, so it is essential to know how to prevent them and what to do if your skin does get burned. Wearing the proper clothing, using sunscreen, and staying hydrated are great steps to take to keep your skin healthy and protected.</p><p>If you do get a sunburn, reduce the symptoms and speed up the healing process through measures such as taking cool showers, applying aloe vera products, taking over-the-counter medications, and preventing further irritation and damage. You can still enjoy the sunny days and take care of your skin.</p>

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Your all-in-one guide to sunburn relief and treatment by WeatherWell: OTC medications, home remedies, and more!

Tried-and-True Ways to Treat Sunburn: Remedies That Work

<p>You know <em>that</em> time of the year. The time when your eyes won’t stop watering, your nose feels like a leaky faucet, and you can’t stop scratching your skin.</p><p>Yes, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/allergies/spring-allergies" target="_blank">it’s allergy season</a>.</p><p id="appendcover">But is the annoying itch a part of your seasonal allergy? Or could it be something else? Should you talk to your doctor about it? In this article, we’ll answer your questions about itchy skin during allergy season.</p><h2 id="allergy">Can seasonal allergies cause itching skin?</h2><p>Most of us associate seasonal allergies with a runny nose, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/allergies/sneezing-allergies" target="_blank">sneezing</a>, and watery eyes. However, there are some lesser-known symptoms as well — among them rashes and skin irritation.</p><p>So if you notice that your skin becomes itchy at a specific time of the year, it could be a seasonal allergy. But there are other allergies that can cause itchy skin:</p><ul><li><strong>Pet dander allergy</strong></li><li><strong>Allergy to dust mites</strong></li><li><strong>Some food allergies</strong></li></ul><h3>Can pollen cause itchy nose skin?</h3><p>Seasonal allergies are often referred to as “hay fever”, though they’re not necessarily caused by hay.</p><p>The cause of seasonal allergies is pollen. It’s a very fine powder that plants produce to fertilize other plants. If you’re allergic to pollen, your immune system thinks that pollen particles are dangerous invaders and starts producing defensive chemicals called histamines.</p><p class="textbox"><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank"><strong>Download WeatherWell for free</strong></a><strong> to track weather-related symptoms and take control of your allergies!</strong></p><p>Pollen allergies can lead to a variety of symptoms that include skin rashes, irritation and itchy skin. The itch can appear anywhere on your body, including the nose.</p><p id="rash">And since allergies often cause <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/colds-viruses/summer-colds-vs-allergies" target="_blank">cold-like symptoms</a>, you’re more likely to rub your nose a lot, which can lead to itchy nose skin.</p><h2>Seasonal allergies and skin rash: what’s the connection?</h2><p>Allergies can also cause different types of <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/winter-itch" target="_blank">skin rashes</a>. If you suffer from a pollen allergy, you may experience the following symptoms:</p><ul><li><strong>Patches of red, dry, itchy skin</strong></li><li><strong>Hives (red, swollen bumps that turn white when you press on them)</strong></li></ul><p id="other">Not everyone with a seasonal allergy gets a rash. But if you do, it’s best to talk to your doctor. They can give you tests to find out what causes your allergy and suggest treatment options.</p><h2>Other possible reasons for itchy skin during allergy season</h2><p>Not every itch is a pollen allergy. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, itchy skin can be caused by a variety of factors.</p><h3>Dry skin</h3><p>Dry skin can be itchy. Fortunately, you can <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/symptoms/skin-issues/natural-dry-skin-remedies" target="_blank">keep your skin healthy</a> with simple self-care tips:</p><ul><li><strong>Use moisturizing products formulated for dry skin</strong></li><li><strong>Make sure you use gentle cleansers on your skin</strong></li><li><strong>Limit baths and showers to around 5 minutes and don’t use hot water</strong></li><li><strong>Wear gloves when gardening, washing dishes, or cleaning</strong></li><li><strong>Use a humidifier in your bedroom</strong></li><li><strong>Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30</strong></li></ul><p>If your skin doesn’t get better, consult a dermatologist.</p><h3>Bug bites</h3><p>Insect and mite bites can be very itchy. Some common culprits are bed bugs, head lice and so-called human itch mites that cause a disease named scabies. But even <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/mosquito-bite-allergy" target="_blank">mosquito bites can itch quite a bit</a> if you scratch them.</p><p>If you suspect that your itch is caused by bug bites, talk to your doctor. They’ll help you identify what bit you and offer treatment.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman with itchy skin" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt14c19f841376355c/62a73810aafb95571393a0c0/a_woman_with_itchy_skin_due_to_seasonal_allergies-min.png" /></figure><h3>Skin diseases</h3><p>There are many diseases that cause itchy skin. They include:</p><ul><li><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/psoriasis" target="_blank"><strong>Psoriasis</strong></a></li><li><strong>Eczema</strong></li><li><strong>Atopic dermatitis</strong></li><li><strong>Neurodermatitis</strong></li><li><strong>Ringworm</strong></li><li><strong>Shingles</strong></li><li><strong>Some forms of skin cancer</strong></li></ul><p>To get relief, you need to get a diagnosis first. A dermatologist will help you find out which condition you have.</p><h3>Diseases inside your body</h3><p>Itchy skin can be a sign of kidney, liver, or blood disease. People whose thyroid gland is overactive can also feel itchy.</p><p>This is why your dermatologist may refer you to other doctors for a diagnosis. Once doctors know what disease you have, they’ll offer treatment options.</p><h3>Touching a plant that causes rashes</h3><p>Touching some plants, such as poison ivy, can lead to skin reactions. In fact, there are quite a few <a href="https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/itchy-skin/poison-ivy/plants-that-make-you-itch" target="_blank">plants that can make you itch</a>, including common garden crops like tomatoes and strawberries.</p><blockquote>Make sure you wear gloves and long sleeves when gardening. </blockquote><p>If you happen to touch a plant that gives you rashes, wash your hands immediately.</p><h3>Swimmer’s itch</h3><p>This itchy condition is also known as cercarial dermatitis. It’s caused by parasites that live in lakes and oceans. Just like pollen allergies, it’s more common in the summer months.</p><p>To prevent swimmer’s itch, make sure you dry yourself with a towel after getting out of the water. </p><h3>Side effects of medications</h3><p>Some meds can cause your skin to itch. They include:</p><ul><li><strong>Certain types of blood pressure medications</strong></li><li><strong>Powerful painkillers called opioids</strong></li><li><strong>Chemotherapy drugs</strong></li><li><strong>Some psychiatric meds</strong></li><li><strong>Some antibiotics</strong></li></ul><p>If you suspect your itch is caused by a new medication you’re taking, talk to the doctor who prescribed it. They may suggest a different drug or offer treatments that will stop the itching</p><h3>Nerve problems</h3><p>A damaged nerve can cause your skin to itch. This is called neuropathic itch. </p><p>There are many health conditions that can cause neuropathic itch. Some of them are:</p><ul><li><strong>Peripheral neuropathy </strong>(nerve damage that causes symptoms in your hands and feet)</li><li><strong>Shingles</strong></li><li><strong>Stroke</strong></li><li><strong>Diabetes</strong></li><li><strong>Multiple sclerosis</strong></li></ul><p id="treat">This kind of itch doesn’t go away with usual treatments. Instead, you may need to wear protective clothing or use meds that numb your skin.</p><h2>How to relieve allergy-induced skin itch </h2><p>The best way to prevent allergy-induced itching is to stay indoors and avoid contact with allergens. However, this isn’t realistic. No matter how hard you try, you’re still likely to come into contact with pollen and get that annoying itch.</p><p>However, you’re not doomed! Seasonal allergies can give you itchy skin, but there are many ways to find relief.</p><h3>Antihistamines</h3><p>These are medications that relieve allergy symptoms. As the name suggests, they reduce or block histamines (the defensive chemicals that your body makes).</p><blockquote>Antihistamines don’t cure the allergy itself, but they still give you a break from symptoms. </blockquote><p>They come in a variety of forms: liquids, tablets, creams, nasal sprays, and so on. Some are available without a prescription. Note that antihistamines can cause dehydration, so it’s important to drink plenty of water.</p><h3>Topical steroids</h3><p>While the name sounds scary, topical steroids are just creams that calm itchy and inflamed skin. The most well-known topical steroid is called hydrocortisone cream.</p><p id="appendbanner">Topical steroids work by blocking certain chemical reactions that lead to inflammation, itching, and rashes. They’re used to treat a variety of skin conditions, but they will only work if you apply them according to your doctor’s recommendations.</p><p>While some hydrocortisone creams are available without a prescription, it’s better to ask your healthcare provider for advice before using them. Your doctor can help you choose the right product and explain how to use it correctly.</p><h3>Moisturizers</h3><p>It’s important to moisturize itchy skin. However, you should opt for products that don’t contain any fragrances or other additives that could potentially irritate your skin even further.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img asset_uid="blt7bf3aefdecbd74ac" alt="Cream to treat dry itchy skin" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt7bf3aefdecbd74ac/62a738b403b23c505f83f72c/cream_for_dry_itchy_skin-min.png" /></figure><h3>Natural remedies</h3><p>You can also use natural treatments to reduce itching. Here are some options to try:</p><ul><li><strong>Cold compresses</strong> reduce blood flow to the affected area of the skin and can bring quick relief from itching</li><li><strong>Cold showers</strong> can work well too, for the same reason</li><li><strong>Oatmeal suspension</strong> is an FDA-approved product that can be dissolved in a bath to treat a variety of skin conditions (but remember that it’s possible to be allergic to oats!)</li><li><strong>Aloe vera</strong> is another plant-based treatment that you can try. If you have an aloe plant at home, you can cut open a leaf, squeeze out the gel that’s inside, and apply this gel to your skin. Alternatively, you can get aloe-based creams at a drugstore</li><li><strong>Simply reducing your overall stress levels</strong> can help with itchy skin. There are many natural ways to relieve stress, such as listening to music, doing breathing exercises or even laughing at something funny</li></ul><p id="doctor">Remember that natural remedies aren’t a replacement for medicines prescribed by your doctor. Sometimes they can even make your condition worse.</p><h2>When to see a doctor about itchy skin</h2><p>Sometimes cold compresses and over-the-counter meds are all you need to stop that itch. But you’ll need to see your healthcare provider if:</p><ul><li><strong>The itch doesn’t go away within a couple of weeks</strong></li><li><strong>The itch is so strong that it prevents you from sleeping and going about your day</strong></li><li><strong>You suspect that your itch is caused by a recently prescribed medication</strong></li><li><strong>You can’t explain what caused the itching</strong></li><li><strong>The itching affects your whole body</strong></li><li><strong>You experience other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, </strong><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/heart-issues/heart-palpitations-faqs" target="_blank"><strong>increased heart rate</strong></a><strong>, pale skin, dizziness, night sweats or a fever</strong></li><li><strong>You take meds that might interact with over-the-counter allergy medications</strong></li><li><strong>The itch appeared suddenly after taking certain medications or food</strong></li></ul><p>Treatment depends on the cause of the itch. Sometimes it’s possible to cure the underlying disease. Some itch-causing health conditions (including allergies) can’t be cured, but you can still manage the symptoms and enjoy a full life by following your doctor’s advice and taking meds exactly as prescribed.</p><h2>Key takeaways</h2><p>Seasonal allergies are caused by pollen, a powder produced by plants. They can cause a variety of symptoms, including rashes and itchy skin.</p><p>However, there are other reasons why your skin may itch in the spring and summer: bug bites, swimmer’s itch, or touching certain plants. In addition to this, itching can be caused by medications or underlying diseases. Or maybe your skin is just too dry.</p><p>There are many treatments for itchy skin that range from simple cold compresses to prescription medications. The choice of treatment depends on what caused the itch, so it’s important to see a doctor if your itch is very severe or doesn’t go away on its own.</p>

A man wearing a sweater and having itchy skin due to seasonal allergies

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Find out whether seasonal allergies cause itching skin as well as other possible reasons why your skin can be itchy this season.

Seasonal Allergies and Itchy Skin: Causes, Relief, When to See a Doctor

<p id="appendcover">If you’ve ever had chilblains, you know how painful and frustrating they can be. Chilblains are sore, itchy, red, or blistering skin that occurs when it’s exposed to cold temperatures. They usually happen on your extremities, such as your toes, fingers, or ears. </p><p>Although chilblains can be painful and uncomfortable, they usually resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, they can lead to more serious problems, such as skin infections. </p><p id="what">There are a number of things you can do to prevent and treat chilblains. Keep reading to learn how to treat chilblains on your toes and hands.</p><h2>What are chilblains?</h2><p>Chilblains are skin lesions brought on by the irritation of microscopic blood vessels. A lot of people get them on their hands and feet, and they can be painful. </p><p>This illness goes by many other names, including pernio chilblains, perniosis, and cold-induced vascular dysfunction. </p><p>A common skin irritation, chilblains (or pernio) are little red areas of skin. They usually appear in chilly or moist environments, but not below freezing. </p><blockquote>Chilblains often appear on the feet and toes, although they may also appear on the legs and ears.</blockquote><p>Chilblains are often red or blue in color and can be itchy and painful. Although their exact cause is still unknown, research has pointed to a localized type of vasculopathy triggered by a susceptible person’s exposure to cold.</p><p>Capillaries, the microscopic blood vessels that carry blood to the skin, may be damaged by the cold and wet and cause redness, blistering, itching, and inflammation. Red <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/winter-itch" target="_blank">spots that itch</a>, swell, and sometimes blister may appear anywhere on the body, including the toes, fingers, ears, and nose.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A pair of mittens on a radiator as a metaphor for preventing chilblains on hands" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltfc2b997bff79e224/64085e4dc08fec105313d193/A_pair_of_mittens_on_a_radiator_as_a_metaphor_for_preventing_chilblains_on_hands.png" height="auto" /></figure><p>Women, young children, and the elderly are more likely to get chilblains. Chilblains are also more common in people who are underweight.</p><p id="causes">Wrapping up warmly or avoiding the cold as much as possible greatly reduces the risk of chilblains in vulnerable people.</p><h2>Causes and risk factors for chilblains</h2><p>When exposed to cold temperatures, capillaries close to the skin’s surface may constrict. Those tiny blood vessels could swell too fast once you warm up. The outcome might be localized swelling as blood flows into the surrounding tissue. Once the swelling has reached a certain point, it can irritate the nerves in the region, resulting in discomfort.</p><blockquote>A peculiar response to cold and subsequent rewarming may be involved, but doctors aren’t sure.</blockquote><p>You’re more likely to get chilblains if you:</p><ul><li><strong>Wear tight clothes or shoes that leave skin exposed in the cold</strong></li><li><strong>Are exposed to cold, wet conditions</strong></li><li><strong>Lack body fat</strong></li><li><strong>Live in chilly and damp climates</strong></li><li><strong>Have an underlying condition like Raynaud’s, connective tissue disease, or SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)</strong></li></ul><h3>Can a vitamin deficiency cause chilblains?</h3><p id="appendbanner">It’s possible. For example, if you have low levels of vitamin B12, the blood supply to your feet may be reduced or halted, leaving you with extremely cold feet that never warm up, altered skin tone (your feet may appear white or purple), chilblains, muscular cramps, and numbness.</p><p>Vitamin B12 deficiency has been linked to reversible megaloblastic anemia and demyelinating diseases. Simply put, this is when the body’s red blood cells are too big to circulate effectively. </p><p id="treat">There is also evidence that a B12 deficiency may disrupt normal blood flow to the foot, causing inflammation, damage to blood vessels, oxidative stress, and chilblains. Vitamin deficiency is seen in many people with chilblains, so the condition may be improved by including a <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/diet-hydration/immune-support-supplements" target="_blank">sufficient amount of vitamins</a> in your diet. </p><h2>How to treat chilblains on toes and hands</h2><p>Chilblains tend to heal on their own within a week to three weeks. As you begin to feel warmer, you may notice a decrease in your symptoms. However, chilblains may not heal properly for those with diabetes or poor circulation.</p><p>You can try these at-home remedies to treat chilblains on your toes and hands:</p><ul><li><strong>Use calamine lotion or witch hazel to relieve the itchiness.</strong></li><li><strong>Massage your feet with heating gel to increase blood flow.</strong></li><li><strong>Wear socks and gloves made of wool or cotton.</strong></li><li><strong>Keep your feet and hands warm.</strong></li></ul><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Close-up of shoes covered in snow as a risk factor for developing pernio chilblains" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt83d6086eba33b39b/64085fa62a47326c5cec3e93/Close-up_of_shoes_covered_in_snow_as_a_risk_factor_for_developing_pernio_chilblains.png" height="auto" /></figure><p id="prevent">If your symptoms persist for more than three weeks, the pain is severe, or you don’t appear to be improving, you should consult a doctor. They may recommend a topical corticosteroid cream for persistent itching if inflammation is a contributing factor. Sometimes, your doctor may additionally prescribe blood pressure medicine to assist in dilating the capillaries close to the skin’s surface.</p><h2>Ways to prevent chilblains</h2><p>If you are sensitive to chilblains, try these steps to prevent getting them in the first place:</p><ul><li><strong>Avoid unnecessary contact with the cold.</strong></li><li><strong>Keep your feet and hands warm when you’re outside.</strong></li><li><strong>Stay active to increase blood flow to your extremities.</strong></li><li><strong>Avoid wearing shoes that are too snug. </strong>They might cut off your toes’ circulation.</li><li><strong>Warm your footwear in front of the heater before putting them on</strong> to make sure they’re not damp.</li><li><strong>Make sure </strong><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/ideal-winter-room-temperature" target="_blank"><strong>your home is toasty</strong></a>. And keep an eye on the humidity level, too.</li><li><strong>Quit smoking.</strong> Nicotine can constrict your blood vessels, which may exacerbate chilblains.</li><li><strong>Keep your skin moisturized. </strong>You can use a special chilblains cream for that.</li></ul><h2>Final thoughts</h2><p>Chilblains are a skin condition that can cause itching, redness, and blistering. You can avoid chilblains by staying warm and staying inside. If you have chilblains that don’t heal in a few weeks or if they become infected, it’s best to consult your doctor. They may prescribe some medications to alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery. Doctors may also be able to provide advice on how to avoid getting chilblains in the first place. Following these measures may reduce your risk of developing chilblains altogether.</p>

A couple having a snowball fight at risk of getting chilblains on toes and hands

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Discover what causes and how to treat chilblains on toes and hands.

Your Guide to Chilblains on Toes and Hands: Causes, Treatment, and More

<p><em>Do you have sensitive skin that burns easily?</em></p><p><em>Are you tired of applying sunscreen every time you spend time outdoors?</em></p><p id="appendcover">Time outdoors in the sun is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. It helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, stimulates vitamin D synthesis, and supports a positive mood. But spending too long in direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day is harmful. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn" target="_blank">cause painful sunburn</a>, premature skin aging, and even increase your skin cancer risk.</p><p>If you think that slathering on sunscreen and staying out of the sun are the only ways to avoid sunburn, think again! UV protection clothing — made from UV protective fabric — may guard against sunburn and skin cancer. It's ideal for babies, children, the elderly, athletes, people with sensitive skin — and everyone else!</p><p id="what">In this article, we'll explore how UV protection clothes work and when to wear them. We'll also show you how to pick out the best sun protective clothing and how you can increase the UV protection of your existing wardrobe.</p><h2>What are UV protective clothes?</h2><p>UV protective clothing — also known as sun-protective clothing — is designed to keep the sun off your skin all day. It offers broad-spectrum UV protection, helping to prevent sunburn, premature skin aging, and skin cancer. </p><p class="textbox"><strong>Learn how to protect your skin with WeatherWell!</strong><br/><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Download our free app today</a> to track when the sun is at its strongest.</p><p>Unlike sunscreen, clothes don't wash or rub off or become less effective after a few hours in the sun. If you wear UV protective fabric, you don't need to worry about how much sunscreen you put on and how often you reapply it. UV clothes protect large areas of skin like the chest, arms, legs, and back. It covers areas difficult to reach with sunscreen. Covering your skin may also reduce moisture loss, minimizing your <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/diet-hydration/dehydration-faqs" target="_blank">risk of dehydration</a> on hot days.</p><p id="when">Wearing UV clothing is one of the easiest ways to be sun safe. If you have young children, putting them in sun protection clothing is much easier than chasing after them to reapply sunscreen every two hours.</p><h2>When should you wear UV protective clothing?</h2><p>You can wear UV clothing anytime you're in the sun for a prolonged period — whether you're on the beach, at the pool, playing sports, hiking, or <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/stay-cool-working-heat" target="_blank">working outside</a>. </p><p>You should pay special attention to using UV protection clothes when you're outdoors during the peak hours of 11 am and 4 pm. In addition, keep an eye on the UV index for your area on the <a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank"><strong>WeatherWell</strong></a> app. This tells you <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/uv-rays" target="_blank">how damaging UV radiation is</a> during a specific time of day. The higher the UV index, the greater your risk of sunburn. You should consider wearing protective clothing if the UV index is five or higher.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="People wearing hats and UV protective clothes in the sun" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt7adc185a0fa57bbe/62cbf66fe1e8cc357ddc16e9/people_wearing_hats_and_UV_protective_clothes_in_the_sun.png" /></figure><p>However, it's not just the summer sun you have to worry about. UV rays can damage your skin year-round — even on cloudy days.</p><p>Factors that increase the risk of sun damage include:</p><ul><li><strong>Having fair skin and blue eyes</strong></li><li><strong>Having sensitive skin</strong></li><li><strong>Living in a sunny, hot climate or at a high altitude</strong></li><li><strong>Exercising or working outdoors during peak hours</strong></li><li><strong>Spending prolonged periods near reflective surfaces like water, sand, and snow</strong></li><li><strong>Taking medication that increases photosensitivity — like tetracycline</strong></li></ul><p id="upf">If you fall into these categories, UV protection clothing is a must-have.</p><h2>What is UPF?</h2><p>UPF — or Ultraviolet Protection Factor — is a rating method used to measure the effectiveness of sun protection clothing, wetsuits, and other UV apparel. UPF tells you what fraction of UVA and UVB radiation can penetrate through the fabric onto your skin. </p><blockquote>The higher the UPF number, the more protection the clothing offers.</blockquote><p>It's typically divided into three rating categories:</p><p><strong>Good protection:</strong> UPF 15. This allows 1/15th (or 6%) of the UV radiation present in the environment to filter through to your skin. Anything less than this is not considered UV protective.</p><p><strong>Very good protection:</strong> UPF 30. This only lets 1/30th of the UV radiation reach your skin.</p><p><strong>Excellent protection:</strong> UPF 50+ offers the strongest sun protection. It only allows roughly 1/50th — or less — UV transmission.</p><p><em>What's the difference between UPF and SPF?</em></p><p id="protective">SPF — Sun Protection Factor — measures the UV protection of sunscreen based on the length of time it takes for your skin to burn in direct sunlight. SPF typically only blocks UVB rays, whereas UPF clothes block out UVA and UVB rays. UVB radiation is responsible for sunburn and skin cancer development. UVA radiation contributes to premature skin aging — it penetrates your skin's dermis. Sun protection clothing offers comprehensive protection. </p><h2>What makes clothing sun protective?</h2><p>Shirts, jackets, shorts, pants, hats, bathing suits, and umbrellas are available in UV protective fabric. The fabric, color, density, weave, and flexibility of clothing impact its UPF and make it more — or less — sun protective. </p><p>When finding the best UV clothing, these factors make a difference: </p><h3>Coloring</h3><p>The color of clothing influences its sun protection capability. Dark colors and bright colors absorb more UV radiation. Light colors and bleached fabrics offer very little sun protection.</p><p>Sun-protective clothing is usually treated with dye to make it dark in color.</p><h3>UV protective fabric</h3><p>Polyester, nylon, rayon, denim, unbleached cotton, wool, and silk are the best UV-blocking fabrics.</p><p id="appendbanner">However, synthetic fibers are the most sun protective. Polyester and polyester blends are particularly useful for absorbing UV rays. </p><h3>Treatments</h3><p>Sun-protective clothes are treated with UV-blocking dyes and UV absorbers to improve their UPF rating. There are also colorless dyes that can make the clothes UV-protective without altering the color. These treatments help the fabrics to absorb UV light and protect your skin.</p><h3>Weave</h3><p>UV clothing should be tightly woven. The looser the weave of a fabric, the more UV rays are allowed to penetrate onto your skin. When you hold your UV protective fabric to the light, you shouldn't see through it. Polyester is an example of a tight weave fabric.</p><h3>Density</h3><p>The denser the fabric, the more UV protection the clothing offers. UV clothes are typically densely woven, thick, and consist of more than one layer.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman wearing a hat and UV protective clothes on the beach" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt2bad8170a04696db/62cbf8480c50ad376dfd6c37/a_woman_wearing_a_hat_and_UV_protective_clothes_on_the_beach.png" /></figure><h3>Coverage </h3><p>Sun protective apparel offers more skin coverage than regular clothes and accessories. High necklines, collars, long sleeves, long pants, wide-brimmed hats, and neck flaps give more body coverage.</p><p id="how">Investing in sun-protective clothing may be more cost-effective over the long term as it can be worn for years and saves you on sunscreen.</p><h2>How to find the best UV protective clothing</h2><p>Not all sun protective clothing is created equal. Luckily, many activewear, surf wear, and swimwear brands offer high-UPF clothing and plenty of options for your needs. </p><p><em>So, what should you look for when choosing the best sun protection clothing?</em></p><p>The first thing to note is the UPF rating of the clothing. Choose UV clothing with a UPF of at least 30. However, a UPF of 50+ is best if you have fair, sensitive skin or spend a lot of time in the sun. </p><p>Follow these tips when shopping for the best sun protective clothes:</p><ul id="make"><li><strong>Get clothing that is dark or brightly colored</strong> to absorb more UV light. Black, dark blue, red, yellow, and green are good options.</li><li><strong>Look for quick-drying fabrics</strong> as getting fabric wet can reduce the UPF.</li><li><strong>Find lightweight, breathable garments </strong>that aren't tight – this will encourage air circulation and keep you cool in summer.</li><li><strong>Avoid very porous clothing.</strong></li><li><strong>Choose loose fits</strong> and slightly larger sizes to avoid stretching the fabric and reducing the sun protection. Bigger sizes will also cover more of your skin.</li><li id="make"><strong>Choose clothes with collars, high necklines, and long sleeves</strong> to protect more of your skin.</li></ul><h2>Can you make your clothes sun protective?</h2><p>Buying new UV clothing can be an expensive exercise. Luckily, you may already own clothes with a naturally high UPF. For example, dark-colored clothing made from denim, corduroy, wool, satin, and polyester can filter UV rays and protect your skin. </p><blockquote>You can purchase UV-blocking treatments and UV absorbers that turn regular clothing into sun protective clothing. </blockquote><p>Treat t-shirts by adding these products to your regular wash cycle, allowing them to coat the fabric and increase its UV absorption. However, the process needs to be repeated regularly as the protection decreases after several wash cycles.</p><p>Dying your clothes can also increase their sun protection. Research shows dying fabric in dark hues significantly increases its UPF. For the best protection, launder your clothes with a UV blocking treatment in addition to coloring the fabric. </p><h2>Final thoughts </h2><p>UV protection clothing can prevent sunburn and minimize your risk of skin cancer. Dermatologists agree that covering up with protective clothing should be your first line of defense against the sun!</p><p>However, even the best sun protective clothing is only one aspect of sun safety. It’s helpful to use a combination of sunscreen and clothes for maximum protection. Always apply water-resistant sunscreen to your face and other exposed areas. In addition, wear sunglasses, put on a wide-brimmed hat, drink plenty of water, and try to stay in the shade during the hottest times of the day.</p>

UV protective clothing hanging on a laundry line to dry in the sun

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Find out how to choose the best sun protective clothing for your skin with WeatherWell!

The Ultimate Guide to UV Protective Clothing: Dress for Health!

UV Protective Clothing Ultimate Guide: Dress for Health!

<p id="appendcover">Psoriasis is an immunologically mediated skin condition that typically causes a rash with itchy, scaly patches. It is a frequent, chronic condition that has no cure.</p><p>This condition frequently goes through cycles where it will flare up for a few weeks or months before decreasing. The causes are largely unknown, but it is characterized by inflammation brought on by immune system failure. This happens due to the immune system’s overreaction, which accelerates skin cell proliferation.</p><p id="hereditary">Continue reading to find the answers to some of the most common questions about psoriasis.</p><h2>Is psoriasis hereditary?</h2><p>While genetics may be involved in psoriasis, people with no family history of psoriasis develop it too. So while it seems at least partially hereditary, there are other factors that also play a role.</p><p>Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, and according to the American Academy of Dermatology, certain genes are required for the disease to manifest itself. However, even if you carry the gene, you may not get the illness. Environmental factors can cause this illness to manifest if you do have these genes.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A person applying cream on their hands to treat psoriasis" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt34b1722649dec8b9/6406ffd226b2ac6bf80ebf8b/A_person_applying_cream_on_their_hands_to_treat_psoriasis.png" height="auto" /></figure><p>According to <a href="https://www.papaa.org/learn-about-psoriasis-and-psoriatic-arthritis/fertility-and-pregnancy/heredity/" target="_blank">research</a>, children have a 75 percent chance of having psoriasis if both parents have the condition and a 15 percent chance if only one parent has the condition.</p><p id="looklike">Therefore, if you have psoriasis, it does not necessarily mean that your kids will too. The likelihood of other siblings acquiring psoriasis is 20 percent if a brother or sister has the condition but not the parents.</p><h2>What does psoriasis look like?</h2><p>Psoriasis comes in various forms, some of which might even happen simultaneously. It often manifests as raised, scaly patches on the skin. Sometimes, it may also have plaques, which are white scales. This can cause tight, cracked, or bleeding skin and itchy, painful, and burning sensations.</p><blockquote id="painful">Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body, but it is most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. </blockquote><p id="painful">While psoriasis can vary in severity, most people with the condition will experience at least some redness, inflammation, and itching. The <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/psoriasis" target="_blank">symptoms of psoriasis</a> can sometimes be confused with the symptoms of other similar diseases (e.g., dandruff). A dermatologist can determine if a skin condition is psoriasis or dandruff. </p><h2>Is psoriasis painful?</h2><p id="eczema">Psoriasis can sometimes be painful, especially when exposed to its triggers. The inflamed patches and itchiness in particular can make psoriasis painful and uncomfortable. </p><h2>Are psoriasis and eczema related?</h2><p id="appendbanner">No, they are not. Psoriasis and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/seasonal-eczema-tips" target="_blank">eczema</a> are distinct conditions. While both skin illnesses are accompanied by itching and might sometimes look similar, their causes, triggering factors, and treatments differ. </p><p id="contagious">Eczema and psoriasis are not communicable. Eczema has been said to be more genetically transferred than psoriasis, while psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder.</p><h2>Is psoriasis contagious?</h2><p id="spread">No, it’s not. Psoriasis is not brought on by a contagious infection or bacteria, in contrast to some other skin disorders, including scabies and impetigo. While touching someone with psoriasis won’t spread it, if you already have the condition, it can spread to other parts of your body.</p><h2>How does psoriasis spread? </h2><p id="hairloss">Psoriasis does not spread from person to person, but it can spread around the body when there is a flare-up. Flare-ups can be triggered by a few things, such as stress, an infection in the body, smoking, too much alcohol, obesity, or a cut on the skin. When a flare-up occurs, a patch can suddenly grow larger, and new patches can also appear on other body parts.</p><h2>Can psoriasis cause hair loss?</h2><p>Hair loss due to scalp psoriasis is possible (particularly if someone roughly and regularly scratches their scalp to relieve itchiness), but it’s only temporary and can be rectified once the psoriasis is treated. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman tossing her hair wondering if psoriasis can cause hair loss" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blte802cb4a5edf97dd/6406ff65e35cc90ebcbd30a0/A_woman_tossing_her_hair_wondering_if_psoriasis_can_cause_hair_loss.png" height="auto" /></figure><p id="healing">Removing scales on the scalp by force can also lead to hair loss. Other times, hair loss is a side effect of some of the drugs that have been recommended to treat psoriasis. This is because some psoriasis medications reduce the growth of new cells. This reduction sometimes affects the hair follicles too.</p><h2>What are psoriasis healing stages?</h2><p>Will psoriasis ever go away? While it doesn’t completely go away, it can go into remission if the symptoms are treated and controlled. This is commonly achieved in three stages of healing psoriasis.</p><ul><li>The <strong>first stage</strong> of healing psoriasis involves the use of ointments. These ointments are usually applied directly to the skin, and they include topical corticosteroids, anthralin, coal tar, vitamin D ointment, and vitamin A ointment.</li><li>The <strong>second stage</strong> makes use of UV light therapy, or an artificial form of light that uses UVB wavelength. Another option here is the use of PUVA, which combines oral drugs with an artificial form of UVA light.</li><li>The <strong>third stage</strong> involves oral retinoids, a powerful form of vitamin A, other oral medications, and biologics that work through injections.</li></ul><p>Wondering if psoriasis can kill you? Fear not. It can’t kill you, and it can be well managed using various treatments. </p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can be unpredictable. Due to the similarities with other skin infections, you should visit a dermatologist as soon as you observe any symptoms. That way, you will be quickly diagnosed and can commence a treatment and management plan immediately.</p>

A person applying cream on their arms to heal psoriasis

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What does psoriasis look like? Where does psoriasis usually start, and how does it spread? Find the answers in our new article! 

Is Psoriasis Contagious? 8 FAQs About Psoriasis

Is Psoriasis Contagious? Answering Your Questions About Psoriasis

<p id="appendcover">The skin is the biggest organ of the human body. It serves multiple functions, such as protecting our internal organs from an outside world filled with bacteria and viruses. The skin also helps prevent moisture loss and aids in regulating our body temperature. In addition, it acts as a protective barrier that absorbs <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/uv-rays" target="_blank">UV radiation</a>, and it manufactures vitamin D from sunlight. This process is most effective during the spring and summer months when sunshine is abundant.</p><p>Since it is constantly exposed to natural and artificial elements, certain aspects of the world can significantly affect the skin. These factors include various chemicals and the day-to-day climate.</p><p>Many individuals feel that their skin reaches its peak condition during the summer months even though the sun and heat can also have adverse effects on the health of their skin. While this may be the case, the winter months tend to be even harsher because of the skin’s exposure to cold and damp conditions.</p><p>Some forms of acne respond well to summer sun exposure, and even though tanning is a sign that <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn" target="_blank">the sun is already damaging your skin</a>, it is still a look that many crave. It is also a sign that your body has had more than enough sunlight exposure to top off those vitamin D levels.</p><p id="causes">So sunlight can be good for skin conditions such as acne, but is sunlight good for eczema? Yes, some forms of eczema do respond well to decent doses of sunlight! But it is essential to keep in mind that other forms are more prevalent at different times of the year. This skin condition is associated with the various stresses and strains the different seasons place upon the skin.</p><h2>Causes of seasonal eczema</h2><p>Eczema is a condition that leaves the skin itchy and inflamed. There are various forms of eczema, including contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular eczema, and status dermatitis. There are different triggers behind each variant. For example, the immune system’s overreaction to a common yeast that lives naturally on the skin is thought to be one of the causes of seborrheic dermatitis.</p><p class="textbox"><strong>Predict how the weather may affect your skin!</strong><br/><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Download WeatherWell</a> to track weather changes and get personalized health insights for weather-related symptoms.</p><p>Seasonal eczema is eczema brought on by certain conditions that reoccur annually, including the weather conditions that accompany autumn and winter. However, it is not only about the wind and rain, as many other factors caused by these elements also come into play. The overall winter climate is not ideal for eczema sufferers, and the <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/winter-itch" target="_blank">colder months can cause extreme itching</a>, redness, weeping, and other unpleasant symptoms.</p><p>Spending far more time indoors because of poor weather conditions and the overall environment means that you encounter greater exposure to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/ideal-winter-room-temperature" target="_blank">controlled indoor heating systems</a> that are not always kind to the skin. In addition, if you also consider how much you cover up in the winter months, then all these factors combined can create the perfect storm for chronic skin conditions such as eczema to develop. </p><h3>Does heat make eczema worse?</h3><p>Even though the sun’s healing powers can help alleviate eczema symptoms, it doesn’t change the fact that high temperatures can often also aggravate eczema. So, does heat make eczema worse? This depends on the individual, but the answer is yes because of the dry air associated with such conditions. </p><p>Sweating can also lead to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/itchy-skin" target="_blank">itching and sore skin</a>, especially if the sweat doesn't evaporate swiftly and adequately. In addition, constant sweating dries out the skin and releases a lot of salt onto the skin’s surface, which can also become an irritant over time.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img asset_uid="bltc5addfb75ab5473f" alt="A woman with heat-induced eczema" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltc5addfb75ab5473f/62ce9694f1696e3810a0421e/A_woman_with_heat-induced_eczema-min.png" /></figure><p>Heat-induced eczema is similar to prickly heat, which is a sore irritation of the skin that creates the sensation of prickly skin that needs to be scratched constantly. This makes the condition worse unless treatments are applied quickly — mainly in the form of soothing creams.</p><p>Hot sunny days also bring with them <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/allergies/spring-allergies" target="_blank">high pollen counts and hay fever</a>. Unfortunately, some hay fever sufferers are susceptible to developing eczema, especially over the long term.</p><h3>Rash from cold weather: Can it be eczema?</h3><p>Although skin rashes are primarily associated with excess heat and humidity, such as those <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/jock-itch" target="_blank">that form in the groin</a> or armpit during potent summer weather, it is also possible to develop rashes during cold weather. </p><p>A rash from cold weather can be an unpleasant long-lasting experience, and some of the symptoms include redness, bumps, itching, and flaking. </p><blockquote>A cold-weather skin rash can even quickly develop into a form of eczema.</blockquote><p>Although other factors come into play, such as allergies and asthma, cold weather eczema can be diagnosed if it is as regular as clockwork and comes on strong whenever the temperature drops. Usually, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/winter-eczema" target="_blank">skin reactions to cold weather</a> can be eczema because the condition is often aggravated by extreme temperatures, artificial heating, and constantly covering up under layers of clothing that prevent the skin from breathing.</p><h3>Humidity and eczema</h3><p>Extreme humidity can do more harm than good for skin conditions, and it certainly exacerbates the symptoms of eczema. In addition, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/heat-eczema" target="_blank">some forms of eczema are actually brought on by humidity</a> because the skin struggles to cope in such an environment.</p><p>During extreme humidity, the skin tends to remain damp. This dampness can result in the blocking of pores and the development of red, sore, and extremely itchy skin. If you factor in how hard it is for the body to remain hydrated during <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/dew-point" target="_blank">humid weather conditions</a>, then this can also affect overall skin health. </p><p id="climate">Skin is not designed to be constantly damp, as this encourages the clogging of pores with oils that can become rancid. This also prevents the shedding of dead skin and the rejuvenation of the skin with new cells. Layers of dead skin tend to become itchy, sore, and flaky and lead to eczema. All of this because of an interruption in the natural processes the skin goes through to renew itself! Furthermore, humidity is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungal infections, both of which can cause allergic reactions that can lead to various forms of eczema.</p><h2>What’s the best climate for eczema?</h2><p>Finding the best climate for eczema sufferers depends on the individual and various hard questions. These include “Does heat make eczema worse?” and “Is the sun good for eczema?”</p><p>Heat can aggravate and alleviate various forms of eczema. For example, if you suffer from cold-related eczema, heat can provide relief. In addition, heat is usually associated with sunlight, which positively affects certain skin conditions.</p><p>However, you do not want to get sunburnt or expose your skin to intense heat and humidity regularly. This is because both place immense stress on the skin, and the constant exposure can aggravate your skin conditions and make them worse.</p><blockquote id="prevent">While you cannot control the weather, you can manage your home and workplace climate. </blockquote><p id="prevent">Try to ensure there is plenty of fresh air mixing with the stagnant air to prevent the development of harmful air conditions. Furthermore, keep a fresh air supply constant to not stifle the room and your skin if rooms need heating.</p><h2>How to prevent seasonal eczema</h2><p>If you notice a pattern in your eczema flare-ups and can pinpoint them to a particular season, then you can use this to your advantage and take steps to prevent eczema from taking hold. Whether it’s an eczema rash from the heat or cold weather, you can stock up on over-the-counter or natural remedies to prevent eczema from taking control. </p><p>Prevention is better than treatment, and keeping warm in cold conditions and cool in the heat is a great starting point if you are affected by temperature extremes. Limit the time you allow your skin to experience these extremes, as well.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A man applying hand cream to improve seasonal eczema" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blta159915d69b4d0f4/62ce97403d042036dcb4aa40/A_man_applying_hand_cream_to_improve_seasonal_eczema-min.png" /></figure><p>It is advisable to take regular cool baths or showers using eczema-friendly skin products in hot conditions. Wearing light clothing can also help to keep you cool, and cotton garments are best.</p><p>In cold conditions, take warm baths and showers, moisturize regularly, and wear non-itchy clothing that forms enough layers to keep you warm but not hot. Furthermore, don’t overheat indoor spaces because letting yourself and your skin breathe is essential.</p><h3>Is sunlight good for eczema?</h3><p>Certain forms of eczema can respond well to sunlight therapy. Some dermatologists prescribe ultraviolet light therapy, which is also known as phototherapy. Special goggles are worn during treatment to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/beauty/winter-sunglasses" target="_blank">protect the eyes</a>, and positive results can be seen after one or two months.</p><h3>Does a humidifier help with eczema?</h3><p id="treat">An eczema humidifier restores moisture to the air and, by doing so, creates a kinder environment for your skin. It is not a standalone treatment for eczema but instead complements other therapies such as light therapy and moisturizing.</p><h2>Seasonal eczema treatment</h2><p id="appendbanner">The treatment for seasonal eczema is highly dependent on what season creates a spike in your symptoms. However, knowing the seasonal trigger can help to prevent an escalation in your skin condition. Appropriate action should then be taken to lessen the effects and duration of attacks.</p><p>If summer heat and humidity are your triggers, then it is all about letting the skin breathe and keeping the body and skin cool. It is vital to have any medication such as ointments and creams handy rather than just relying on temperature control alone.</p><p>If you use natural or conventional medications, then these should be applied as directed to the affected area. Even if this is not a cure, it can prevent eczema patches from becoming open sores and spreading to other places.</p><p>Cotton clothing is by far the most gentle on the skin, and it is a breathable material as well. It is important to prevent excessive sweating by wearing such clothing, and, even in the winter, layers of cotton clothing can help keep your skin warm instead of hot. Cotton is preferable to materials such as wool that could create an allergic reaction.</p><h2>Final thoughts</h2><p>Eczema is a complex medical condition with no one-size-fits-all trigger or treatment. Various factors can cause eczema flare-ups, including food allergies, stress, environmental allergens, and even chemical additives in cleaning products. The natural hazards of the varying seasons also pose potential risk factors. Keep yourself stress-free, active, and healthy to help give yourself a fighting chance of beating seasonal weather-related eczema attacks.</p>

A close-up of a person applying hand cream on their hands to treat seasonal eczema

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Find the connection between humidity and eczema, heat and eczema, as well as other weather conditions with WeatherWell!

Seasonal Eczema: Weather Skin Tips for You

<p id="appendcover">Your skin goes through a lot in winter, especially on your hands. Cold weather, wind, and indoor heating can dry out your skin and make it <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/itchy-skin" target="_blank">itchy and irritated</a>. Let’s find out how you can prevent winter eczema flare-ups on your hands in the colder months.</p><h2 id="causes">What can cause seasonal eczema flare-ups on your hands?</h2><p>Eczema can be a year-round problem. The main factors that make you more susceptible to eczema are dry skin, stress, and exposure to harsh chemicals and irritants. But other things that can cause <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/seasonal-eczema-tips" target="_blank">seasonal eczema</a> on your hands are:</p><ul><li><strong>Seasonal allergens like pollen or dust mites</strong></li><li><strong>Cold and damp weather</strong></li><li><strong>Prolonged exposure to saltwater or chlorine</strong></li><li><strong>Excessive sweating</strong></li><li><strong>Working in the garden with bare hands</strong></li></ul><p id="appendbanner">Any weather can cause an eczema flare-up. For some, high humidity and heat can bring relief, while for others, they may set off skin issues. <a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Keep track of your symptoms</a> to know your triggers and be prepared when your eczema starts playing up.</p><h3>Is eczema worse in cold weather?</h3><p id="difference">When the winter comes, you may experience eczema flare-ups, particularly on the skin exposed to the cold air, such as the face and hands. The main reasons for winter eczema are the cold, dry wind, and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/ideal-winter-room-temperature" target="_blank">indoor heating</a> that can dry out your skin and make it more sensitive. Wearing layers of warm, wool clothes can also trigger eczema flares and they can irritate your skin and make it more itchy.</p><h2>What’s the difference between eczema and winter rash?</h2><p>Some skin conditions have similar symptoms and triggers, and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/winter-itch" target="_blank">winter rash</a> and eczema are no exceptions. A winter rash can develop on any part of your body, but it often appears on your hands, arms, and legs. If your skin gets red, swollen, and itchy, you may have a winter rash. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Playing with snow wearing wool gloves as a trigger for winter eczema" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltc7c79e41405e37d5/62e2825c12f4cd75109dede0/Playing_with_snow_wearing_wool_gloves_as_a_trigger_for_winter_eczema.png" /></figure><p>The usual triggers of a winter rash are cold wind and low humidity, but it can have other causes, such as:</p><ul><li><strong>Sunburn. </strong><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/uv-rays" target="_blank">The UV light</a> can damage your skin even in winter, so make sure to cover up and apply sunscreen on exposed areas.</li><li><strong>Sensitivity to different chemicals in soaps and detergents.</strong> The cold weather can make you more susceptible to everyday allergens.</li><li><strong>Infections.</strong> Watch out for accompanying symptoms like a fever and sores.</li><li><strong>Stress and fatigue.</strong> They can trigger a rash especially if you have a skin condition like eczema and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/psoriasis" target="_blank">psoriasis</a>.</li></ul><p>Eczema and winter rash can be quite difficult to tell apart as they manifest themselves in similar ways. </p><blockquote>In general, rashes develop after contact with an irritant and can clear up fairly quickly. </blockquote><p>Eczema, on the other hand, is a long-term condition that can flare up during any season and requires ongoing treatment.</p><p id="prevent">Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms and find the cause of your rash or skin irritation in winter.</p><h2>How to prevent hand eczema in winter</h2><p>If you notice your hands getting itchy and sore in cold weather, you can do a few things to keep eczema at bay.</p><h3>1. Protect your hands</h3><p>Your hands need some extra care in winter. Wear gloves when you’re walking outside or keep your hands in your pockets to shield them from the cold wind. </p><blockquote>Moisturizing is also an essential step in preventing winter eczema on your hands. </blockquote><p>So keep a hand cream with you and apply it liberally throughout the day to protect the skin from the cold, dry winter air.</p><p>Water and chemicals can strip your skin of its natural oils, further damaging your dry hands, so put on a pair of rubber gloves with a cotton lining when cleaning and doing the dishes.</p><h3>2. Wash your hands in lukewarm water</h3><p>Excessive washing can dry out and irritate your hands. It can be especially damaging when your eczema is already affected by the cold wind and indoor heating. While remaining hygienic, try to wash your hands less often in winter and use warm water rather than hot. Opt for moisturizing soaps to avoid stripping your skin of its protective oils. Pat your hands dry with a towel and apply hand cream to lock the moisture in. Avoid rubbing your skin, as it can irritate your eczema and make it itchier. </p><h3>3. Switch up your skincare for the winter</h3><p>Dry indoor air, cold wind, and freezing temperatures can strip your skin of its natural oils and make it more sensitive to irritants. So you may need to adjust your <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/beauty/winter-skincare-tips" target="_blank">skincare routine for the winter</a>. Switch to gentle, fragrance-free soaps and lotions to reduce irritation. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img asset_uid="blt793bba6ec0140f4b" alt="Applying product to treat winter eczema on hands" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt793bba6ec0140f4b/62e281c0504b12685ede9b95/Applying_product_to_treat_winter_eczema_on_hands.png" /></figure><p>Your skin can become dry and dehydrated in colder weather, so it’s important to moisturize it every day, especially after having a bath or shower. Add a thick cream to your winter skincare routine if <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/natural-dry-skin-remedies" target="_blank">your skin is extra dry</a>, and apply it to your hands before going outside to protect them from the elements.  </p><h3>4. Choose soft fabrics</h3><p>As the weather gets colder, you may start wrapping yourself in layers of clothes. Wool hats, scarves, and gloves will keep you toasty, but the scratchy material can irritate your skin and cause your eczema to flare up. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics when it comes to clothes that touch your skin, like pajamas, underwear, and socks. Natural materials such as cotton are the best. You can still wear your favorite wooly sweater in the colder months; just put on a cotton t-shirt under it to keep your skin eczema-free. When it comes to gloves, look for a pair with a soft, natural lining or made from a non-irritating material like cashmere. </p><p class="textbox"><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Download WeatherWell</a> for daily tips to stay healthy in winter!</p><h3>5. Use a humidifier</h3><p>Indoor heating dries out the air and can also dehydrate your skin. This can lead to an eczema flare-up. A humidifier helps to add some moisture back to the air and maintain the comfortable humidity levels in your home. But make sure to change the water and regularly clean your machine to prevent bacteria growth. You can also add a couple of drops of essential oils to your humidifier — it will make your home smell nice and fresh.</p><p>There are other ways to combat <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/allergies/dry-indoor-air" target="_blank">dry indoor air</a> if you’re not ready to invest in a humidifier. For example, place a few water bowls around your home near the radiators. The water will evaporate and make your indoor air less dry — keep an eye on the humidity levels in your home, as excess moisture can encourage mold growth.</p><h2>Final thoughts</h2><p>Cold weather can cause patches of dry, irritated skin to appear on your hands. Seasonal triggers for winter eczema flare-ups include dry, cold wind, indoor heating, and itchy fabrics like wool. The key to keeping your hands soft throughout winter is to protect them from the elements: always wear gloves when you go outside and apply fragrance-free moisturizer after washing your hands. You may use a thicker cream before bed to nourish your skin and restore its protective barrier.</p>

Falling snow as seen through the window and hand cream and mittens to prevent winter eczema on hands

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Discover surefire ways to prevent seasonal eczema flare-ups and protect your hands when the cold weather comes.

How to Avoid Winter Eczema on Your Hands: 5 Proven Tips

<p id="appendcover">When winter arrives, it brings colds, allergies, and other weather-related health conditions. Winter rashes are one of the most commonly reported health conditions during winter, and children and adults are both susceptible.</p><p id="causes">In this article, we will explore the causes of itchy skin in winter and some tips for managing and preventing itchy skin and rashes during the cold months. We will also discuss the difference between winter rashes and itchiness and when to see a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.</p><h2>What causes itchy skin in winter?</h2><p>Several factors can cause winter itchiness and rashes. The major reason for rashes and itchiness during winter is that the cold, dry weather can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to irritation. </p><blockquote>In addition, exposure to irritants such as wool or synthetic fibers in clothing, as well as soaps and other products, can cause the skin to become itchy. </blockquote><p id="difference">For others, underlying medical conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may also be a factor. They can cause itchy skin year-round but may be exacerbated by winter’s dry, cold air. </p><h2>Winter rashes and winter itchiness: What’s the difference?</h2><p>Winter rashes and winter itchiness both describe skin irritation that occurs during the winter months. Being able to tell them apart is a common dermatology question. However, these two conditions are not the same thing. A winter rash occurs due to exposure to cold weather. This can make the skin red, inflamed, and itchy. Sometimes, a winter rash may also cause small bumps or blisters on the skin. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Wool clothing that can cause itchy skin in winter" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt8e72340e701dad12/63ff18f410329144ff020a6f/Wool_clothing_that_can_cause_itchy_skin_in_winter.png" height="auto" /></figure><p>A winter rash may also be asteatotic eczema. It’s a skin condition that occurs during the winter months. If you have seen winter rash pictures, you will notice it is characterized by dry, itchy, and flaky skin, often on the lower legs, arms, and torso. Winter rashes can be caused by a combination of factors, including:</p><ul><li><strong>Dry air</strong></li><li><strong>Changes in temperature</strong></li><li><strong>Allergies</strong></li><li><strong>Infections</strong></li><li><strong>Inflammatory skin diseases</strong></li><li><strong>Clothing</strong></li></ul><p>Other possible factors that can cause skin rashes are heating, sunburns, eczema, and sensitive skin. In most cases, winter rashes are not serious and can be treated with moisturizers and other skin care products. However, in some cases, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition and require medical treatment.</p><p id="appendbanner">In contrast, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/itchy-skin" target="_blank">skin itchiness</a> can refer to any type of irritation or discomfort that you feel on your skin. Winter itchiness occurs during the winter months. While everyone experiences dryness to some degree during the winter, people with sensitive skin may experience more severe symptoms than others.</p><p>The most common cause of winter itchiness is <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/allergies/dry-indoor-air" target="_blank">low humidity levels in indoor air</a> and exposure to low temperatures. This combination dries out and causes itchy patches, flaking, or scaling on your skin, typically on your elbows, knees, hands, and feet. Other factors that may contribute to itchy skin include:</p><ul><li><strong>Wearing clothing that is too tight or made of materials that irritate the skin</strong>, such as wool or synthetic fibers</li><li><strong>Using hot water or harsh soaps when washing</strong>, which can strip the skin of its natural oils</li><li><strong>Taking long, hot showers or baths,</strong> which can also strip the skin of its natural oils</li><li><strong>Using harsh or drying skin care products</strong>, such as alcohol-based toners or astringents</li></ul><p id="prevention">Unlike a winter rash, winter itchiness does not necessarily cause any visible changes to the skin.  </p><h2>How to prevent seasonal rashes</h2><p>Itchy skin in winter can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. There are several reasons why your skin may become itchy during the winter months, including dry air, changes in temperature, and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/ideal-winter-room-temperature" target="_blank">the use of heating systems</a>. Here are some tips on how to deal with winter rashes and winter itchiness:</p><ul><li><strong>Keep your skin moisturized:</strong> Dry air can strip moisture from your skin, making it itchy and prone to rash. Use a moisturizer regularly and consider using a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air.</li><li><strong>Avoid hot showers and baths:</strong> Hot water can further dry out your skin, making it even itchier. Use lukewarm water instead and avoid staying in the shower or bath for too long.</li></ul><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman applying moisturizer to her arms to prevent winter itchiness and rash" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltd3f474449b53e3ed/63ff1a04c448032f744a787d/A_woman_applying_moisturizer_to_her_arms_to_prevent_winter_itchiness_and_rash.png" height="auto" /></figure><ul id="treatment"><li><strong>Use gentle, hypoallergenic soaps:</strong> Fragranced and harsh soaps can irritate your skin and make it itchier. Choose gentle, hypoallergenic soaps that are designed for sensitive skin.</li><li><strong>Avoid scratching: </strong>Scratching may provide temporary relief but can also damage your skin and worsen the rash. If you can’t resist the urge to scratch, try using a cold compress or taking an anti-itch medication.</li><li id="treatment"><strong>Protect your skin from the cold:</strong> Cold air can dry and irritate the skin. Wear gloves, a scarf, and a hat to protect your skin from the cold. Following these tips can prevent winter rashes and itchiness and keep your skin healthy and comfortable during the colder months.</li></ul><h2>Effective treatment options for winter itchiness and winter rashes</h2><p>To treat winter itchiness and rashes, you may want to start with over-the-counter products. The most common winter itchiness treatment is to moisturize your skin regularly. <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/seasonal-eczema-tips" target="_blank">If you have eczema</a>, you may need to use an application with cortisone cream to reduce inflammation and itching. </p><blockquote>You can also try taking ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and pain if you have an allergy that causes an itchy rash. </blockquote><p>Other things you can do to treat winter itchiness include the following:</p><ul><li><strong>Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.</strong></li><li><strong>Avoid hot showers and baths, which can strip moisture from your skin.</strong> Instead, use lukewarm water and limit your shower time.</li><li><strong>Use a gentle, fragrance-free soap or cleanser.</strong></li><li><strong>Moisturize your skin regularly with a thick, oil-based moisturizer</strong>, such as petroleum jelly or a product containing ceramides.</li><li><strong>Avoid irritants, such as wool clothing, and harsh detergents, which can dry your skin.</strong></li><li><strong>Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning to protect your hands from drying out.</strong></li><li><strong>Apply a moisturizing lotion or cream to your skin immediately after drying off </strong>from a shower or bath while your skin is still damp.</li></ul><p id="doctor">It’s also important to talk to your doctor if your winter itchiness is severe or doesn’t improve with self-care measures. They can recommend other treatment options, such as prescription creams or ointments to help relieve your symptoms.</p><h2>When to see a doctor</h2><p>Seeing a doctor if you’re experiencing persistent or severe itchy skin during the winter is always a good idea. Itchy skin may sometimes signify a more serious underlying condition, such as eczema, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/psoriasis" target="_blank">psoriasis</a>, or an allergy. A primary health care provider or dermatologist can help to determine the cause of your symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. Here are some signs that you should see a doctor for your itchy skin:</p><ul><li><strong>The itchiness is severe or getting worse.</strong></li><li><strong>The itchiness is interfering with your daily activities.</strong></li><li><strong>You have open sores or lesions on your skin.</strong></li><li><strong>Other symptoms, such as fever, swelling, or redness, accompany the itchiness.</strong></li><li><strong>You have a history of skin conditions or allergies.</strong></li></ul><p>If you’re unsure whether you should see a doctor for your itchy skin, it’s always better to be cautious and consult with a medical professional. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific situation.</p><h2>Final thoughts</h2><p>Itchy skin and seasonal rashes in winter can be common and frustrating problems. Dry air, changes in temperature, and the use of heating systems can all contribute to winter rashes and winter itchiness. To help alleviate these symptoms, it’s important to keep your skin moisturized, avoid hot showers and baths, use gentle, hypoallergenic soaps, avoid scratching, and protect your skin from the cold. If your itchy skin persists or is severe, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor or eczema dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. Following these tips can help keep your skin healthy and comfortable during the winter months.</p>

A humidifier and bottles of lotions that can help deal with itchy skin in winter 

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Discover what causes itchy skin in winter and how to prevent a seasonal rash during the colder months.

Itchy Skin in Winter: How to Deal with Winter Rashes and Winter Itchiness

<p id="appendcover">There are many wonderful things that we start to dream about whenever winter rolls around. But just as you dream about ice skating rinks, snowball fights, and hot cocoa, you may also be worrying about common winter skin concerns. There are several skin problems that tend to flare up during the winter, including dry skin, chapped lips, and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/winter-eczema" target="_blank">cracked hands</a>. Fortunately, there are some things you can try at home to relieve these issues.</p><p id="causes">Keep reading this article to discover some of the best natural remedies for dry skin and chapped lips that you can try at home.</p><h2>Can weather cause dry skin and chapped lips?</h2><p>Absolutely. Weather variations, especially cold and dry conditions, can lead to a wide range of skin complaints. Some of the most common weather-related skin problems include dry skin, chapped lips, and cracked hands.</p><p>Cold or dry weather can exacerbate various skin conditions, including:</p><ul><li><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/psoriasis" target="_blank"><strong>Psoriasis</strong></a></li><li><strong>Eczema</strong></li><li><strong>Atopic dermatitis</strong></li><li><strong>Cold urticaria</strong></li><li><strong>Pernio or chilblains</strong></li><li><strong>Raynaud’s phenomenon</strong></li></ul><p>But it’s not just the weather that can cause these issues. During the winter, we’re far more likely to stay inside and turn on our central heating systems, which can also dry out our skin. We’re also more prone to experiencing extreme weather changes during the winter months, since we’re constantly going from the cold outdoor air to a <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/ideal-winter-room-temperature" target="_blank">warm indoor environment</a>. Heaters and frequent hot baths or showers can also cause skin dryness.</p><p>Some of the most common symptoms of dry skin include:</p><ul><li><strong>Itchiness</strong></li><li><strong>Pain in the affected areas</strong></li><li><strong>Irritation</strong></li><li><strong>Redness</strong></li><li><strong>Tightness</strong></li><li><strong>Bleeding</strong></li><li><strong>Rough or scaly-looking skin</strong></li></ul><p>Age is another factor that can increase your risk of dry skin. As we get older, our skin loses some of its moisture and plumpness, which leaves us more prone to bouts of dry skin during the colder months. These factors can affect the moisture level in your skin and lead to uncomfortable symptoms, but we’ll discuss several skin remedies that could help you.</p><p class="textbox"><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank"><strong>Download WeatherWell</strong></a><strong> to discover how weather affects your skin!</strong></p><p>During the summer, your skin tends to produce larger quantities of natural oils. These oils allow your skin to retain more moisture which prevents dry skin. This typically leads to summer skin looking more plump and radiant than winter skin. But in excessive quantities, this increased oil production can also lead to weather-related skin complaints.</p><p>Warm and humid weather, on the other hand, can also lead to several skin problems, such as:</p><ul id="skin"><li><strong>Acne</strong></li><li><strong>Contact dermatitis</strong></li><li><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/itchy-skin" target="_blank"><strong>Allergies</strong></a></li><li><strong>Eczema</strong></li><li><strong>Heat rash</strong></li><li><strong>Folliculitis</strong></li><li><strong>Melasma</strong></li><li id="skin"><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn" target="_blank"><strong>Sunburns</strong></a></li></ul><h2>Natural remedies for dry skin</h2><p>The easiest natural remedy for dry skin is probably something that you already own… moisturizer! A good moisturizer will rehydrate your skin and seal in the moisture, which will help you combat dry skin. During the winter months, it’s a good idea to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/beauty/winter-skincare-tips" target="_blank">opt for a thick and rich moisturizer</a> to ensure that the moisture will stay locked in. Affordable and effective wintertime moisturizers include:</p><ul><li><strong>Petroleum jelly</strong></li><li><strong>Moisturizing oils</strong></li><li><strong>Diaper cream</strong></li></ul><p>The body areas that are more likely to be affected by dry skin include those that have fewer sebaceous glands, such as arms, legs, hands, and upper back. Postmenopausal women are also more likely to suffer from these issues. As a result, these are some of the areas that you should target while applying your moisturizer during the winter.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Cream for dry skin" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt4dab45a714e55596/62a1bf0936119858583cd5e0/cream_for_dry_skin-min.png" /></figure><p>It’s also a good idea to use a humidifier at home or at work during the winter. A humidifier is a simple device that works by adding more moisture to the environment by spraying a very fine water mist at regular intervals. These devices can also help relieve different respiratory conditions, such as asthma and allergies.</p><p>Like we mentioned above, hot baths can contribute to dry skin by stripping away natural oils from your body. To prevent this, limit yourself to one warm — not hot — bath or shower per day during the wintertime. You should also try to remove any irritant products from your skincare routine during this time of the year.</p><blockquote>Choose a moisturizing soap or consider soap-free cleansers that will be gentle on your skin. </blockquote><p>Also, stay away from scented personal hygiene products that can worsen any irritation or flaking on your skin. During your shower or bath, avoid using bath sponges or scrubs that can cause microtrauma to your skin. Gentle exfoliation can be helpful, but it should only be done once or twice per week to prevent further irritation.</p><p>Once you get out of the shower, make sure to apply your moisturizer immediately to seal in the moisture on your skin. You should also try to avoid scented detergents to wash your clothes, since they could also irritate your skin. Choose soft clothes that won’t hurt the affected areas even more.</p><h3>Do home skin remedies really work?</h3><p>The good news is that natural remedies for dry skin can be very effective, especially in mild cases. However, it’s always a good idea to seek help from a specialist if your symptoms don’t improve or if they’re too severe. There are many health conditions that can cause skin problems, and your physician will have the knowledge and tools that are required to diagnose any underlying health issues that are causing your dry skin.</p><h3>Special home remedies for dry cracked hands</h3><p>Home remedies for dry cracked hands include wearing gloves whenever you go outdoors. You can try applying moisturizer right before you put your gloves on to help seal in the product and protect your skin. It’s also important to apply a generous amount of moisturizer just before going to bed.</p><p>Another home remedy for dry cracked hands and fingers is to apply a thick moisturizer on the affected areas and then cover your hands with a bandage or a gauze. This will give your skin more time to absorb moisture from the product to relieve dry skin. You can also apply this home remedy for dry cracked hands to your feet, if you are <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/heel-fissures" target="_blank">dealing with cracked heels</a>. After applying your moisturizer, simply put on socks to allow the product to absorb more slowly.</p><blockquote id="lips">Soaking your hands in Epsom salts can also act as chapped hands remedy. </blockquote><p id="lips">Simply fill a bucket or basin with warm water and add half a cup of Epsom salts, and soak your hands — or feet, if needed — in the water for 10 to 15 minutes. Epsom salts can soften dry, rough skin and remove dead skin cells, while also soothing irritated skin.</p><h2>Natural remedies for chapped lips</h2><p>Just like the rest of your skin, it’s especially important to keep your lips hydrated if you’re under cold and dry weather. Our lips don’t have a lot of natural protection against the weather, and they’re typically exposed to the environment 24/7, so it’s no surprise that they often become dry and chapped during the winter.</p><p>Natural remedies for chapped lips include lip balms made out of natural ingredients, such as cocoa butter. Other home remedies that you can try include:</p><ul><li><strong>Sugar or sea salt exfoliant</strong></li><li><strong>Coconut oil</strong></li><li><strong>Honey</strong></li><li><strong>Aloe vera</strong></li><li><strong>Avocado butter</strong></li><li><strong>Petroleum jelly</strong></li></ul><p>Avoid licking or biting your lips excessively to prevent worsening this issue, since these actions can further irritate and hurt your lips. Mouth breathing can also worsen dry, chapped lips, so it’s important to focus on breathing through your nose during the winter months.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A young woman applying lip balm on chapped lips" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltcefad01d81a47a67/62a1be64891af05acaff034b/a_young_woman_applying_lip_balm_on_dry_lips-min.png" /></figure><p id="other">It’s also important to keep your lips protected when you go outdoors during the winter. You can achieve this by bundling up with a scarf and draping it in a way that covers your mouth. This will protect the delicate skin on your lips from the cold, dry air to prevent chapped lips. Additionally, remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day.</p><h2>What to do if natural skin remedies don’t work?</h2><p>As we mentioned above, there are many health conditions that can lead to dry skin and need to be managed by a healthcare professional.</p><p id="appendbanner">If you have tried the tips mentioned above and dry skin is still troubling you, it may be time to make an appointment with a dermatologist. If you have severe dry skin, your doctor could recommend a lotion or moisturizer that contains additional ingredients such as urea, lactic acid, or topical steroids. They could also order certain tests to rule out another, underlying health condition as the cause of your skin problems.</p><p>While dry skin is typically a simple problem that can be solved through home skin remedies, it’s important to be on the lookout for severe or chronic skin problems that affect your quality of life.</p><p>Additionally, dry skin can increase your risk of skin fissures and secondary bacterial infections, which is just another reason why it’s so important to get this skin problem under control. Improving your dry skin will allow you to enjoy all your favorite wintertime activities without having to worry about discomfort or pain. Other complications stemming from chronic dry skin include:</p><ul><li><strong>Bleeding</strong></li><li><strong>Scarring</strong></li><li><strong>Skin damage</strong></li><li><strong>Pain while performing your daily activities</strong></li></ul><p>But thanks to these simple home remedies, you’ll be able to manage most mild cases of dry skin and chapped lips during the winter. Most people will find relief quickly after using these methods, which are safe, easy, and affordable.</p>

Honey, milk, and other natural remedies for dry skin

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If weather changes, especially in winter, cause your skin to become dry and cracked, look no further! WeatherWell got you covered with a list of home skin remedies.

Natural Remedies for Dry Skin and Chapped Lips: Try Them at Home!

<p id="appendcover">Heel cracks are typical foot issues that can affect both adults and children. Many people do not take cracked heels seriously. Of course, having deep cracks in your feet can make walking around painful and uncomfortable, but can they be a sign of a serious medical issue? </p><p id="causes">Let’s dive into what can cause heel fissures and how to treat and prevent cracked heels.  </p><h2>What causes heel fissures?</h2><p>Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, develop when the skin on the sole of your heel gets dry and hard. Additionally, the skin could start to flake or crust over. Cracks or fissures may appear when the skin becomes very dry.</p><p>In addition to the fact that the skin of your heels seems dry and cracked, you may also encounter the symptoms below:</p><ul><li><strong>Discomfort and pain, particularly while standing</strong></li><li><strong>Localized itching</strong></li><li><strong>Bleeding cracks</strong></li><li><strong>Rough skin</strong></li><li><strong>Infections leading to fever, redness, and swelling</strong></li></ul><p>Heel fissures often go through multiple phases. One initial symptom is the development of calluses on the skin of the heel. Calluses form as the fat pads beneath your heels expand in response to wear and tear, which may be seen as tiny fissures as the callus begins to break down.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Close-up of a person's feet with cracked heels on the beach" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt0fa5c3de8edbb809/63eb70cc68b812598c76d808/Close-up_of_a_person_s_feet_with_cracked_heels_on_the_beach.png" height="auto" /></figure><p>Other causes of cracked heels may be:</p><ul><li><strong>Standing for lengthy periods of time, particularly on hard surfaces, which may cause discomfort</strong></li><li><strong>Wearing shoes with no heel support</strong></li><li><strong>Walking barefoot</strong></li><li><strong>Being overweight</strong></li><li><strong>Having a chronic condition, such as diabetes</strong></li></ul><p id="diabetes">Deep cracks in your feet can make you more susceptible to infections, and diabetic foot ulcers are another risk if you have cracked heels.</p><h2>Are cracked heels a sign of diabetes?</h2><p>The start of <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/diet-hydration/diabetes-heat" target="_blank">diabetes</a> may be accompanied by a wide variety of symptoms, some of which include an increase in thirst, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/cold-diuresis" target="_self">frequent urination</a>, weight loss, impaired eyesight, and very dry skin. </p><p id="appendbanner">Diabetes also takes a significant toll on your feet, decreasing the amount of blood that flows to them and depriving them of nutrients and oxygen. This makes it difficult for wounds, blisters, and sores to heal properly.</p><p id="treatment">Because diabetes can induce peripheral neuropathy, some patients may also have numbness in their feet. Nerve damage caused by diabetes can prevent sweat glands in the foot from producing sweat. If your sweat glands aren’t working properly, your feet may start to feel dry and cracked. So yes, cracked heels can be a sign of diabetes, but it’s important to note that there are other causes of heel fissures.</p><h2>How to treat cracked heels</h2><p>Given how common cracked heels are, there is a wide range of remedies available. If you have mild symptoms of cracked heels, you can use home remedies to treat them. But if the situation is worsening day by day, you should make an appointment with your doctor. </p><blockquote>Simply applying a little moisturizer to your heels two to three times a day can take care of minor instances of cracked heels. </blockquote><p>If you’re not in any pain, and the cracks have just begun showing up, then you may be able to treat cracked heels with a home remedy. Some more solutions you might try at home are described below.</p><ul><li><strong>Moisturize with an emollient.</strong> Emollients are able to slow the rate at which water is lost from the skin. They can penetrate the deep layers of skin, leaving it feeling velvety smooth and supple. </li><li><strong>Wear cotton socks to bed. </strong>Put some petroleum jelly on your heels before putting on socks to keep the skin there from drying out. For the skin to soften, you’ll have to keep doing this over the course of several days.</li></ul><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman wearing socks for cracked heels" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt92f21847ddf9ed8b/63eb6ee4e4d5251cb4687ecb/A_woman_wearing_socks_for_cracked_heels.png" height="auto" /></figure><ul><li><strong>Try a liquid bandage for cracked heels.</strong> All you need to do is soak the bandages and put them on your heels to moisturize them. There are also specialized 100% cotton socks for cracked heels that help you treat the cracks.</li><li><strong>Put in some silicone heel cups</strong> to help the moisturization process and prevent the expansion of the heel pad.</li><li><strong>Use a pumice stone</strong> to massage away part of the thick, dead skin. It is useful for thinning thick, calloused skin.</li><li><strong>Ask your doctor about other treatment options. </strong>If your symptoms aren’t improving with at-home treatment, it may be time to see a podiatrist. They have methods for exfoliating the skin that don’t cause more damage or bleeding. They may also suggest using special tape or braces to keep the cracks together while they heal.</li></ul><p>A liquid skin protectant is another option for mending broken heels. Like a liquid bandage, this helps shield the cracks and lessens the discomfort of walking on them. </p><p id="prevention">To prevent further cracking of the skin when walking or standing, you can try special orthotic shoe inserts, which are available with heel cups. Furthermore, there are many creams for cracked heels on the market that you can use to lessen the discomfort. </p><h2>Ways to prevent heel fissures</h2><p>By adhering to a few simple steps that lower your risk of developing cracked heels, you may save yourself a lot of hassle and discomfort in the long run.</p><ul><li><strong>Avoid wearing open shoes or shoes that don’t provide enough support </strong>for your heels and increase the likelihood of your feet drying out.</li><li><strong>Stay away from shoes with a thin heel </strong>since they might cause your heel to extend laterally.</li><li><strong>Steer clear of shoes that are overly constricting.</strong></li><li><strong>Avoid standing or sitting with your legs crossed for an extended period of time.</strong></li><li><strong>Use thick foot lotion and sleep in cotton socks every night.</strong></li><li><strong>Examine your feet on a daily basis.</strong></li><li><strong>Put in tailored shoe inserts to cushion your heel </strong>and spread the weight more evenly over your foot.</li><li><strong>Drink a lot of water to </strong><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/diet-hydration/summer-drinks" target="_blank"><strong>keep your body hydrated</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h2>Final thoughts</h2><p>Dry, cracked heels can be more than just a nuisance. If they’re left untreated, they can lead to serious problems. Fortunately, there are things you can do to take care of your feet and heal cracked heels. Start by applying lotion to your feet two or three times a day. For an extra boost of moisture, apply a thicker cream or ointment that contains petroleum jelly or oil before bed and sleep with thin cotton socks on. </p><p>Some moisturizers also contain skin-softening ingredients like urea, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acid, which can help remove dead skin if used regularly. If home treatment doesn’t work, talk to your doctor about other options.</p>

Close-up of feet walking on the dry, cracked ground as a metaphor for heel fissures

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Discover what causes heel fissures and how to treat and prevent cracked heels.

Heel Fissures: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

<p id="appendcover">You may be familiar with the term “psoriasis,” as many people have the skin disease and have to cope with it daily. This condition usually arises through red, itchy patches that may appear scaly.</p><h2 id="whatis">What is psoriasis?</h2><p><a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840" target="_self">Psoriasis</a> is a common disease that typically appears on the scalp, elbows, torso, and/or knees. Although there is no cure, there are many treatments available that can help you control the following symptoms:</p><ul><li><strong>Cracked, dry skin</strong></li><li><strong>Scaly, red patches</strong></li><li><strong>Stiff and swollen joints</strong></li><li><strong>Pitted or loosened nails</strong></li></ul><p id="types">Psoriasis has many different forms, with different names depending on the location, symptoms, and treatment. Identifying which form you have can help you better understand how to lessen any discomfort.</p><h2>Types of psoriasis</h2><h3>Erythrodermic psoriasis</h3><p>While it is the least common type of psoriasis, this form can be intense and sometimes painful. It can cover the whole body in a red rash that may peel, itch, or burn.</p><h3>Guttate psoriasis</h3><p>This form <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/guttate-psoriasis" target="_blank">appears on the arms, legs, and torso</a> in smaller drop-shaped lesions. It is more common among younger adults and children, who sometimes develop the condition when the body’s immune system responds to a bacterial infection such as strep throat by causing skin inflammation, triggering an outbreak.</p><p class="textbox"><strong>Psoriasis? You can handle it!</strong><strong><br/></strong><a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/weatherwell-health-forecast/id1565394543" target="_self">Download WeatherWell</a> to forecast weather effects on your skin and take timely measures!</p><h3>Inverse psoriasis</h3><p>Inverse psoriasis is characterized by patches of red skin that don’t have the typical scaly texture. They appear in skin folds around the breasts, buttocks, and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/jock-itch" target="_blank">groin</a>.&nbsp;</p><h3>Nail psoriasis</h3><p>Fingernails and toenails can also be significantly affected by psoriasis. Discoloration, unusual nail growth, and pitting are common symptoms. Severe cases involve loosening and crumbling nails.</p><h3>Palmoplantar psoriasis</h3><p>This variation of psoriasis is present on the palms and soles of the feet. It is a chronic condition that can lead to functional disability and impair a person’s quality of life.</p><blockquote>The exact causes of this and other types of psoriasis are still unknown, although the general consensus is that it is a mixture of environmental and genetic factors. </blockquote><p>Manual and repetitive trauma, friction, and irritants are possible environmental causes. Many people with <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448142/" target="_self">palmoplantar psoriasis</a> are former or current smokers, as well. As for genetics, it seems that the human leukocyte antigen is the most likely genetic factor.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Cracked surface as a metaphor for psoriasis" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt1f99663ddd902e39/62839b77ce671353d507cae5/Cracked_surface_psoriasis.png" /></figure><p>Unfortunately, unlike other forms of psoriasis, topical agents cannot treat this type because the skin on the palms and soles is so thick. This makes it difficult for drugs to penetrate the skin. However, many studies are currently trying to find alternative solutions.</p><h3>Plaque psoriasis</h3><p>Plaque psoriasis is the most common form, and it appears on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. People with this type of psoriasis typically have red, scaly skin patches that are raised and dry. They may also be <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/itchy-skin" target="_blank">itchy or tender</a>.</p><h3>Psoriatic arthritis</h3><p>Psoriatic arthritis causes painful and swollen joints. This is usually the first symptom to pop up, although sometimes people only experience changes to the nails. Any joints can be affected, and the associated pain varies quite a bit. The stiffness and joint damage can be permanent if the person affected does not take proactive measures.</p><h3>Pustular psoriasis</h3><p id="influence">This rare form of psoriasis can appear in small areas on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. The patches tend to be covered in pus-filled lesions.</p><h2>Can weather influence psoriasis?</h2><p>Weather can play a role in psoriasis flare-ups. It is important to take the proper precautions to lessen pain, itchiness, and other symptoms.</p><h3>Is cold weather bad for psoriasis?</h3><p id="appendbanner">Yes, cold weather can definitely cause flare-ups. Because the air tends to be drier in the winter, your already dry skin can make psoriasis worse. Moisture tends to be extracted from the skin if you are outdoors for too long.&nbsp;</p><p>Also, sunlight is known to help with psoriasis, and since there are fewer hours of daylight during winter, that relief is lessened. If you have psoriatic arthritis, you have to be extra careful when it gets chilly outside. The cooler temperatures can <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/pains-and-aches/old-injuries" target="_blank">make your joint pain worse</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>Cold weather drives everyone indoors, where <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/ideal-winter-room-temperature" target="_blank">the heat is on high</a>. Unfortunately, this can also cause flare-ups by drying out your skin, so it is important to moderate your thermostat.</p><h3>Should you be cautious with psoriasis in hot weather?</h3><p>When it comes to psoriasis, it is always important to be cautious. When it is colder outside, there seem to be only downsides to how your skin reacts. Luckily, warm weather can be of some help.</p><p>Natural sunlight and exposure to the sun can actually help with your psoriasis. In phototherapy, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/uv-rays" target="_blank">UV radiation</a> is the healing component. While the radiation is beneficial, being outside when it is too hot can lead to flare-ups, just like when you spend time in cold weather.</p><p id="ease">Pay attention to the exact temperature before determining how long you want to be outside and how much skin is exposed to the sun.</p><h2>Best ways to ease psoriasis during extreme weather</h2><h3>Drink more water</h3><p>When it is cooler, it is crucial to keep your skin hydrated. <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/diet-hydration/reusable-water-bottles" target="_blank">Drinking a lot of water</a> will help with this and help prevent any flare-ups. Recommendations for hydration generally suggest drinking between half a gallon to a gallon of water every day.</p><h3>Wear light clothing</h3><p>Whether you are in cold or hot weather, wearing loose clothing will allow your skin to breathe. If you are sweating, trapping the sweat against your skin may cause flare-ups.&nbsp;</p><p>Light-colored clothing is also an essential aspect of keeping your symptoms to a minimum. Dark colors absorb more heat from the sun, so wearing lighter colors will keep you as cool as possible. In addition, hats and visors are great accessories for keeping the sun off your face and scalp, where you may be more sensitive.</p><h3>Use sunscreen</h3><p>Because extreme sun exposure is a common cause of flare-ups, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/uv-protective-clothing" target="_blank">protecting your skin</a> is a must. You can minimize irritation by wearing sunscreen that protects you from UVA and UVB rays. Physicians suggest using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.</p><h3>Get a bit of sunlight</h3><p>As mentioned before, sunlight can be great for easing psoriasis symptoms when utilized in moderation. Go outdoors when the sunlight isn’t super intense; avoid being in the sun when it is hottest, between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Creating an “outdoor schedule” for yourself that you can stick to will bring the most benefits. Learn about your skin type, ranging from very fair (type 1) to very dark (type 6), to better understand how long to stay outside and how much skin to expose.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Moisturizing psoriasis-prone skin in hot weather" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt5bad446f5e7dbd64/62839bbe3b65ce548fb9d151/Skin_treatment_psoriasis.png" /></figure><h3>Moisturize your skin</h3><p>One of the most prevalent symptoms of psoriasis is dry skin. While moisturizing cannot cure your psoriasis, it is an essential daily practice for <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/natural-dry-skin-remedies" target="_blank">keeping the dryness at bay</a> and preventing itchiness and pain.&nbsp;</p><p>Choosing the right moisturizer is very important; ingredients such as fragrances, dyes, and alcohol have the potential to make dryness worse.&nbsp;</p><h3>Avoid alcohol and smoking</h3><p>Smoking is a common factor in people with palmoplantar psoriasis, making it a large concern. Smoking in moderation, or not smoking at all, is a great preventative measure to avoid getting this form of the disease. </p><blockquote>A persistent smoking habit has the potential to really disrupt your health in lots of ways, psoriasis included.&nbsp;</blockquote><p>Alcohol is also something that should be avoided. If you already have psoriasis, alcohol can make your symptoms worse and even get in the way of your treatment doing its job. If you do not currently have any form of psoriasis, you are more likely to develop it if you drink regularly.</p><h2>Final thoughts</h2><p>Psoriasis is a common skin disease that many people have to deal with on a daily basis. This incurable disease can be identified by scaly, red patches that can be itchy and/or painful. You are most likely to find these patches on your torso, elbows, knees, and scalp. The most common types are plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.&nbsp;</p><p>Both warm and cold weather can cause your psoriasis to worsen. It is important to take preventative measures to keep flare-ups at bay. Taking steps like wearing the proper clothing, using sunscreen, and avoiding alcohol and smoking can make a real difference! While psoriasis is not yet curable, you can make your skin feel better by being proactive!</p>

 Psoriasis on hands getting worse in hot weather

Psoriasis on hands

For people with psoriasis extreme weather conditions, either hot or cold, might be an unpleasant challenge. The good news is that you can take some easy daily actions to manage psoriasis symptoms and prevent its flare-ups. 

Does Psoriasis Become Worse in Hot or Cold Weather?

<p><em>Do you battle with an itchy rash on your groin and upper thighs during summer?</em></p><p id="appendcover">A red, itchy rash in your nether regions is less than ideal. Unfortunately, high humidity and extreme heat can trigger an embarrassing groin rash called a jock itch.</p><p>In this article, we explain jock itch risk factors, causes, and symptoms. We'll also tell you about how to treat and prevent this rash, as well as the best jock itch cream to use.</p><p id="what">You can stop googling images of severe jock itch and comparing them to your rash. We have the information you need to put your mind — and skin — at ease!</p><h2>What is jock itch?</h2><p>Jock itch is a skin infection caused by a fungal overgrowth that affects the groin, upper thighs, and buttocks. </p><p>The scientific name for the infection is tinea cruris. It's called jock itch because it typically affects men and spreads in locker rooms among male athletes. It may also be known as "jock rot", "crotch itch", or "gym itch."</p><p>The symptoms of jock itch include: </p><ul><li><strong>An itchy, raised rash on the groin</strong></li><li><strong>A ring-shaped rash with red edges</strong></li><li><strong>Flakey, scaly skin</strong></li><li><strong>Red, grey, or brown skin areas — depending on your skin color</strong></li></ul><p id="causes">It flares up when moisture and heat accumulate in the groin area. It's <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/sport/summer-workouts" target="_blank">associated with summer, intense exercise</a>, and wearing tight underwear and workout clothes.</p><p id="causes" class="textbox"><strong>Learn how to keep your skin healthy in any weather!</strong><br/><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Download WeatherWell for free </a></p><h2>Jock itch causes</h2><p>Jock itch is caused by an overgrowth of microscopic skin fungi known as dermatophytes. We all have these fungi living on our skin in small amounts — they make up a healthy skin microbiome. </p><p>However, the warm, dark, and moist environment in the groin and inner thigh area allows the fungus to grow out of control. When this happens, it may cause infection in susceptible people. It's also triggered by using damp towels and wearing sweaty underwear, jockstraps, and sports cups. Plus, if you have a fungal infection elsewhere, you can spread it to your groin if you aren't fastidious with hygiene. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A man exercising in the heat as a trigger for jock itch" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt875c2b909970e002/62d7e06642189910ad60b124/A_man_exercising_in_the_heat_as_a_trigger_for_jock_itch.png" /></figure><p>The following factors may also make you more likely to experience a jock itch infection:</p><ul><li><strong>Being male</strong></li><li><strong>Being an athlete</strong></li><li><strong>Living in a hot, humid climate</strong></li><li><strong>Wearing tight underwear</strong></li><li><strong>Wearing tight pants when working out</strong></li><li><strong>Playing contact sports</strong></li><li><strong>Sweating excessively</strong></li><li><strong>Sitting in a wet swimsuit</strong></li><li><strong>Reusing workout clothes and towels before washing them</strong></li><li><strong>Sharing towels</strong></li><li><strong>Using public showers and gyms</strong></li><li><strong>Having athlete’s foot</strong></li><li><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/diet-hydration/diabetes-heat" target="_blank"><strong>Being diabetic</strong></a></li><li><strong>Being overweight</strong></li><li><strong>Having a compromised immune system</strong></li></ul><p id="faq">While jock itch can feel unbearable, it is easy to prevent and treat — provided you know how to address it correctly. </p><h2>Jock itch FAQ </h2><p>If you're wondering "is jock itch contagious" or "how long does jock itch last" — you've come to the right place!</p><p>At <a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank"><strong>WeatherWell</strong></a>, we've compiled some of the most common FAQs about jock itch.</p><h3>What does jock itch look like?</h3><p>Jock itch is a flat, itchy rash that develops in the skin folds and on the sides of the groin. It may become ring-shaped and spread outwards to the upper thigh and buttocks. The borders of the rash are well-defined, raised, and red, while the inner area may turn brown and become flaky. You may experience small jock itch blisters that develop around the border of the rash.</p><p>It's uncommon to see jock itch on the shaft of the penis or scrotum in men or the vulva in women.</p><h3>Does jock itch smell?</h3><p>A jock itch smell is given off by the infection-causing fungi. It's described as yeasty or sour. If your jock itch is associated with poor personal hygiene, there may be a musty odor from sweat and bacteria accumulating.</p><blockquote>Regularly showering, changing clothes, and using an antifungal wash in the area can help to clear up the jock itch smell. </blockquote><h3>Is jock itch contagious? </h3><p>The fungal infection that causes jock itch is contagious and spreads when in close contact with someone who has it. You can catch it when sharing towels and clothes or during sexual contact with an infected person. </p><h3>Can women get jock itch?</h3><p>Jock itch is sometimes talked about as if it only affects athletes and men. So, can women get jock itch?</p><p>Yes, jock itch affects both genders. It's less common in women because they don't have as many sweat glands or as much friction in the groin area as men. Women may get the rash under the breasts, where sweat accumulates.</p><h3>How long does jock itch last?</h3><p id="diagnosis">Unfortunately, jock itch won't resolve easily on its own. How long jock itch lasts depends on when you seek treatment. With treatment, it clears up within 2-4 weeks. Without treatment, jock itch can linger for months. </p><h2>Jock itch diagnosis</h2><p>Many people do everything to avoid the embarrassment of going to a doctor, including looking up pictures of jock itch. But consulting a doctor for a diagnosis can give you peace of mind and ensure you get treatment.</p><h3>When to see a doctor about jock itch</h3><p id="appendbanner">If you're experiencing an itchy, raised rash in your groin area, you should see a doctor for advice. Don't worry — your rash will likely be one of many your doctor has seen!</p><p id="treat">The doctor will ask about your hygiene habits and examine the rash. Usually, they can identify the condition by sight and prescribe the best jock itch cream. In some cases, your doctor may take a skin culture or biopsy.  </p><h2>Jock itch treatment</h2><p>Jock itch is a mild condition that can be treated at home with antifungal cream, good hygiene, and lifestyle changes.</p><h3>Jock itch medications</h3><p>There are several treatment options available over the counter (OTC) and on prescription.</p><p>The most common and effective jock itch medications and remedies include:</p><ul><li><strong>Topical jock itch antifungal cream</strong> with such ingredients as azoles, allylamines, butenafine, ciclopirox, tolnaftate, or amorolfine</li><li><strong>Antifungal soap</strong> or body wash to clean inside skin folds and hard-to-reach areas</li><li><strong>Jock itch powder</strong> to absorb moisture and keep the groin dry</li><li><strong>A jock itch spray </strong>with antifungal ingredients</li><li><strong>Diluted tea tree oil</strong> applied to the groin area for antifungal properties</li></ul><p>Your doctor may suggest using a combination of an antifungal body wash, an antifungal ointment, and a jock itch powder for best results.</p><h3>Jock itch healing stages</h3><p>The jock itch healing stages can feel slow when you're dealing with this type of rash. In the early stages, <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/itchy-skin" target="_blank">itching and skin irritation</a> stop quickly with treatment. Next, your skin will flatten out as jock itch blisters and the raised rash heal. The redness will turn a darker color. </p><blockquote>Skin discoloration may persist for a few weeks but will fade with time.</blockquote><p id="prevent">However, don't stop treatment as soon as the itching stops. Always complete your course of treatment as advised by your doctor or pharmacist. Even if you have the best jock itch cream, it won't heal if you don't use it consistently and correctly!</p><h2>Prevent jock itch </h2><p>If you're tired of getting a rash on your groin every time summer rolls around, there are tips you can use to prevent it before it starts. </p><h3>1. Wear loose-fitting clothes </h3><p>Wear loose-fitting underwear and pants that don't chafe your thighs and groin area during exercise. Look for clothes made from breathable fabric like cotton. Men may benefit from wearing boxers instead of briefs. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Antifungal soap to prevent jock itch" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt9ab9211234c35fa3/62d7dfe4b6918e10db304363/Antifungal_soap_to_prevent_jock_itch.png" /></figure><h3>2. Maintain good hygiene</h3><p>Good personal hygiene is crucial to prevent fungal skin infections from developing.</p><ul><li><strong>Shower and change your underwear daily.</strong></li><li><strong>Wash your hands frequently.</strong></li><li><strong>Wash your clothes and bedding regularly.</strong></li><li><strong>Change out of sweaty workout clothes immediately.</strong></li><li><strong>Don't share clothes and towels with other people.</strong></li><li><strong>Never walk barefoot in public showers and at public pools.</strong></li><li><strong>Avoid skin-to-skin contact with anyone with an active jock itch infection.</strong></li><li><strong>Wipe down gym equipment with antifungal wipes before using it.</strong></li></ul><h3>3. Keep your groin dry</h3><p>A sweaty groin — from the summer heat, wearing tight clothes, or engaging in intense exercise — is the main culprit behind jock itch. </p><p>These are our best tips for keeping the area dry:</p><ul id="away"><li><strong>Dry your groin</strong> and upper thighs well with a clean towel before you get dressed after a shower or swim.</li><li><strong>Apply an antifungal jock itch powder</strong> to the area to absorb moisture and stay dry all day.</li><li><strong>Avoid sitting in sweaty clothes</strong> after a workout.</li><li id="away"><strong>Choose underwear</strong> made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics.</li></ul><h2>Jock itch won't go away. What to do?</h2><p>If your jock itch won't go away despite using jock itch antifungal cream and seeing your doctor, it may have become treatment resistant. Your doctor may prescribe you oral antifungal medications.</p><p>You may need a skin biopsy if symptoms don’t resolve within a month of using jock itch medication.</p><p>Please seek medical attention if your groin rash: </p><ul><li><strong>Is swollen and painful</strong></li><li><strong>Spreads beyond your thighs</strong></li><li><strong>Develops on your genitals</strong></li><li><strong>If you have a fever</strong></li></ul><h2>In conclusion </h2><p>Jock itch is a common fungal skin infection that usually strikes in summer, causing redness and itching in the groin. It affects both men and women and can spread from one person to another.</p><p>While this condition is annoying and embarrassing, with lifestyle changes and antifungal cream, jock itch resolves rapidly. Keeping your groin dry and clean speeds up healing and helps you avoid a recurrence of jock itch.</p>

A man in shorts and antifungal jock itch creams in the bathroom

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Getting a jock itch during hot days can be really unpleasant. Find out what causes it, as well as what you can do to prevent or treat it, with WeatherWell.

Jock Itch in the Summer: All You Need to Know

Jock Itch in the Summer: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

<p id="appendcover">Guttate psoriasis is a kind of psoriasis that manifests on the skin as tiny, teardrop-shaped, red, scaly areas. It doesn’t generally leave a scar. Guttate psoriasis accounts for around 2 percent of all instances of psoriasis and is more common in children than in adults. It may also manifest in young people, particularly those under the age of 30. </p><p id="whatis">Keep reading to learn more about guttate psoriasis, including its causes, treatment options, and how to prevent it.</p><h2>What is psoriasis?</h2><p>Psoriasis is characterized by the development of scaly, flaky areas of skin. Patches may seem red or pink, while scales might appear white or silvery. The scales and patches might also appear gray or purple.</p><p>These patches generally form on your knees, elbows, scalp, and lower back but may appear anywhere else on your body. In most cases, the impacted area is tiny. Sometimes, the patches are painful or irritating.</p><blockquote>The severity of psoriasis varies widely from individual to individual. </blockquote><p>Although it may be nothing more than an irritation to some, it may have serious consequences for others.</p><p>Psoriasis is a chronic condition that often alternates between symptom-free or mildly symptomatic intervals and more severe intervals. Skin cells are produced more often in people with psoriasis.</p><p>Normally, skin cells are produced and replaced every three to four weeks; however, in psoriasis, this process only lasts three to seven days. The accumulation of dead skin cells is what causes the characteristic psoriasis patches.</p><p>Although the process is not completely understood, it’s assumed to be connected to an immune system issue. The immune system is your body’s protection against sickness and infection, but in patients with psoriasis, it targets healthy skin cells by mistake.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A man applying cream to the guttate psoriasis on his elbow" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt73ee5b2bee9b844f/63dbb87c8c69354d3e0550af/A_man_applying_cream_to_the_guttate_psoriasis_on_his_elbow.png" height="auto" /></figure><p>Psoriasis may run in families; however, the precise role genetics plays in producing psoriasis is unknown. Psoriasis symptoms can begin or worsen as a result of a specific incident or trigger. Psoriasis may be triggered by a skin injury, a throat infection, or the use of certain medications.</p><p>This illness cannot be transmitted from one person to another since it is not contagious. People who experience psoriasis with joint pain may have psoriatic arthritis.</p><h3>Psoriasis versus dermatitis: What’s the difference?</h3><p>The term “dermatitis” is used to describe a variety of rashes and skin irritations that may be brought on by irritants, infections, allergies, hyperactive immune systems, heredity, and more. Dryness, redness, and itching are typical symptoms. Overall, the term describes a state of skin inflammation. Depending on the underlying issue, the rashes might vary from hardly noticeable to quite problematic.</p><blockquote>Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder. It happens because your immune system is giving out mixed signals, which causes your body to overcompensate by producing new skin cells.</blockquote><p>Plaques of psoriasis, like those of dermatitis, can be irritating. As the condition progresses, around a third of those with psoriasis <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/pains-and-aches/arthritis-guide" target="_blank">also get arthritis</a>.</p><p id="types">Plaques from psoriasis have thicker, more clearly defined scales than those from dermatitis. Rather than being white or yellow like dermatitis scales, psoriasis scales are more silver.</p><h2>Different psoriasis types</h2><p>The following are different types of psoriasis:</p><ul><li><strong>Plaque psoriasis.</strong> Plaque psoriasis is the most prevalent form of skin condition. The illness manifests as silvery white spots on red, inflamed skin. These sores often hurt and itch.</li><li><strong>Pustular psoriasis. </strong>This unusual form of psoriasis is characterized by the appearance of well-defined, pus-filled blisters. It may cover vast areas of skin or appear as a localized problem on the palms and/or soles of the feet.</li><li><strong>Erythrodermic psoriasis.</strong> The skin becomes very red and flaky from erythrodermic psoriasis. Extreme sunburn, infections, certain drugs, and the discontinuation of psoriasis treatments may all set off this condition. This condition, if left untreated, may rapidly progress into a life-threatening disease.</li><li><strong>Inverse psoriasis.</strong> Folds of skin like those seen in the groin, buttocks, and breasts are especially vulnerable to inverse psoriasis. Flaky, irritated areas of skin appear and become worse with friction and perspiration. Possible causes of this kind of psoriasis include fungal infections.</li><li><strong>Guttate psoriasis. </strong>Small, red plaques appear on the skin with psoriasis, which often begins in adolescence or early adulthood. Infections of the respiratory tract, strep throat, tonsillitis, stress, skin damage, antimalarial drugs, and beta-blockers may all set off this condition.</li></ul><h2 id="causes">Causes of guttate psoriasis</h2><p>Do you know what psoriasis is caused by? Here are the two primary causes:</p><ul><li><strong>Genetics. </strong>At least two genes have been linked to psoriasis, and there may be further connections. It is more probable that an individual will get chronic psoriasis if they have close relatives, particularly parents, who also have the condition.</li><li><strong>Bacterial infections.</strong> Group A Streptococcus, the bacteria responsible for most cases of strep throat and similar disorders, is often linked to guttate psoriasis.</li></ul><p>The chance of developing guttate psoriasis is increased in people with HIV, autoimmune illnesses (such as rheumatoid arthritis), or immune systems that are reduced by chemotherapy.</p><p>Other possible causes of guttate psoriasis include:</p><ul id="appendbanner"><li><strong>A bacterial or viral upper respiratory illness</strong></li><li><strong>Tonsillitis</strong></li><li><strong>Stress</strong></li><li><strong>Skin damage caused by a burn, cut, or insect bite</strong></li><li><strong>Medicines like beta-blockers for heart issues and malaria medications</strong></li><li id="appendbanner"><strong>Abuse of alcoholic beverages</strong></li></ul><h3>What causes psoriasis under the arms?</h3><p>Like other autoimmune disorders, inverse psoriasis is brought on by an immune system malfunction. However, perspiration and other forms of moisture might bring on flare-ups of this type of psoriasis.</p><p>Inverse psoriasis is more likely to develop in overweight people who already have psoriasis. That’s because excess skin and deeper folds of skin are direct results of carrying around additional weight.</p><p id="treatment">Medication changes, infections, skin injuries, nicotine and alcohol usage, and friction in the skin’s deep creases are other potential triggers.</p><h2>How to treat guttate psoriasis</h2><p>An outbreak of guttate psoriasis typically lasts two to three weeks. Your doctor will likely treat your symptoms and attempt to avoid more infections.</p><h3>Medications</h3><p>Allergies, dryness, and swelling may all be treated with a variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications. Some treatments may include:</p><ul><li><strong>Anti-itch and anti-inflammatory cortisone cream</strong></li><li><strong>Scalp dandruff shampoo</strong></li><li><strong>Psoriasis honey</strong></li><li><strong>Creams formulated with coal tar to relieve dry skin</strong></li><li><strong>Moisturizers</strong></li><li><strong>Vitamin A-containing prescription drugs</strong></li><li><strong>Psoriasis injections</strong></li></ul><p>Your doctor may prescribe oral medication for you if your condition is severe. Some examples include:</p><ul><li><strong>Corticosteroids</strong></li><li><strong>Methotrexate</strong></li><li><strong>Biologics (guselkumab, ixekizumab)</strong></li><li><strong>Apremilast (Otezla</strong><sup><strong>TM</strong></sup><strong>)</strong></li></ul><h3>Phototherapy</h3><p>This is an alternative treatment method that makes use of light. During this procedure, your doctor will expose your skin to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/uv-rays" target="_blank">UV light</a>. Also, you may be prescribed medicine to speed up your skin’s response to light. Getting outside into the sunlight may also do wonders for your mood.</p><p id="prevention">Psoriasis symptoms may come and go, but the disorder itself cannot be cured. Avoiding a symptom’s known cause is the most effective strategy to prevent a flare-up. The factors that set off an outbreak of psoriasis in one individual may not do so in another. Understanding what triggers your symptoms and what helps to alleviate them is crucial.</p><h2>Can guttate psoriasis be prevented?</h2><p>In order to avoid a psoriasis outbreak, use these measures:</p><h3>Eliminate stress</h3><p>Living with psoriasis can make dealing with the demands of everyday life more difficult. When under pressure, the body reacts by increasing inflammation. Psoriasis flare-ups have been linked to this reaction. So try to lessen your stress levels to manage your symptoms.</p><h3>Avoid cold, dry weather</h3><p>Psoriasis may respond significantly to changes in climate. Some people’s symptoms are exacerbated by cold and dry weather, while hot temperatures improve them.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A healthy meal with vegetables to prevent guttate psoriasis" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt5cf1ee4f0f17031a/63dbb8574cd3b46624f7621e/A_healthy_meal_with_vegetables_to_prevent_guttate_psoriasis.png" height="auto" /></figure><h3>Maintain a nutritious diet</h3><p>Psoriasis seems to worsen with weight gain or obesity. For this reason, keeping your weight in check with regular exercise and a nutritious diet is essential. Seek the advice of a dietitian if this is something you struggle with. A nutritionist may advise you on how much and what kinds of food to consume each day to achieve your weight goals.</p><p>Some people’s psoriasis symptoms are triggered by eating certain foods that cause inflammation in the body, such as processed junk food and dairy. Other foods like legumes, nuts, and fish seem to reduce inflammation and flare-ups.</p><h3>Medication</h3><p>Psoriasis may be triggered when the body’s innate immune response is disrupted by the use of certain drugs, which can lead to inflammation. Among these pharmaceuticals are:</p><ul><li><strong>Lithium</strong>, which is used to treat mental health disorders, such as depression</li><li><strong>Propranolol hydrochloride</strong>, a blood pressure medication</li><li><strong>The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication indomethacin</strong>, used to treat arthritis</li></ul><p>Don’t forget to tell your doctor about any drugs you’re taking, whether they’re prescribed or over-the-counter. If your doctor thinks your medicine is causing your psoriasis flare-ups, they may modify your dose or prescribe a different drug.</p><h3>Use a humidifier</h3><p>In order to maintain healthy skin, hydration is key. If the <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/allergies/dry-indoor-air" target="_blank">air inside your home is dry</a>, try using a humidifier.</p><h2>Final thoughts</h2><p>When it comes to symptoms, psoriasis may come in a wide variety of forms. Although psoriasis has no known cure, it may be treated to alleviate and control symptoms. If you are worried about the condition of your skin, see a physician.</p><p>Your psoriasis’s kind and severity will influence the course of therapy. Smaller psoriasis patches and less severe instances frequently respond well to topical treatments. Larger patches are indicative of a more severe condition that may need systemic therapy.</p><p>Psoriasis isn’t infectious; nonetheless, many individuals still mistakenly assume it is. Psoriasis is thought to have several causes, including heredity, the environment, and problems with the immune system. </p>

Guttate psoriasis treatment options like a humidifier, blankets, and UV lamps

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Discover the different psoriasis types, causes, and ways to treat guttate psoriasis. 

Guttate Psoriasis: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

<p id="appendcover">The summer’s heat can be a challenge for those living with eczema. If you notice your eczema getting worse after spending too long in the sun on hot, humid days, you’re not alone. Read on to find out what causes itchy skin in the heat and how to prevent seasonal eczema flare-ups.</p><h2 id="causes">Causes of seasonal eczema</h2><p>Eczema affects everyone differently. If you have eczema, you may already know your triggers.</p><p>Along with common causes like dry skin, stress, and household irritants (which can affect you all year round), seasonal eczema triggers include:</p><ul><li><strong>Extreme cold or hot temperatures</strong></li><li><strong>Sudden changes in temperature</strong></li><li><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/allergies/dry-indoor-air" target="_blank"><strong>Dry air</strong></a></li><li><strong>Excessive sweating</strong></li><li><strong>Sunburn</strong></li><li><strong>Seasonal allergens like pollen, dust, and mold</strong></li></ul><p id="appendbanner">Eczema-prone skin is sensitive, so it’s more susceptible to changes in the environment and temperature. </p><blockquote id="appendbanner">In summer, spending a lot of time in the sun, salt water, or chlorinated pool water can cause eczema flare-ups. </blockquote><p id="appendbanner">So keep an eye on your symptoms if you’re planning a day on the beach. You can even start an eczema diary to help identify your triggers and manage flare-ups in the future.</p><h3>Does heat make eczema worse?</h3><p>While heat brings eczema relief for some people, it can make it worse for others. Hot, dry weather can <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/natural-dry-skin-remedies" target="_blank">dry out the skin</a>, weakening the skin’s protective barrier, making it more susceptible to irritants.</p><p>Hot weather also causes us to sweat more — it’s <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/natural-thermoregulation" target="_blank">how the body regulates its temperature</a> and keeps us cool. But excessive sweating can further dehydrate and irritate the eczema-prone skin: when the sweat evaporates, it leaves a salty residue on the skin that causes irritation.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman having itchy heat-induced eczema" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt5d845255a50f04a9/63034c9b340cdd5fb10e90e6/A_woman_having_itchy_heat-induced_eczema.png" /></figure><p>Spending a lot of time in the sun can also aggravate your eczema. Sunburns damage the already weak skin barrier and cause dryness and inflammation. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10091477" target="_blank">According to a 2015 study</a>, people with eczema, in general, have trouble regulating body temperature in the heat. This can lead to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/itchy-skin" target="_blank">itching</a>, skin redness, and inflammation.</p><h3>Humidity and eczema</h3><p id="prevention">Eczema is usually associated with dry air, as it draws moisture from your skin. But hot, humid weather can also aggravate your symptoms! On muggy days you often have a layer of sweat on your skin. </p><blockquote id="prevention">The salt from your sweat can irritate the skin and cause heat rash and itchy eczema flare-ups. </blockquote><p id="prevention">You may have the urge to shower more often on hot, humid days, too, but excessive washing can further damage your skin’s protective barrier. So, when you do hop in the shower, make sure to moisturize afterward.</p><h2>Best ways to prevent eczema in the heat</h2><p>Heat-induced eczema can put a damper on your summer. But you can still enjoy summer picnics and family days out on the beach! Just follow these simple steps to take control of your eczema and manage seasonal flares:</p><h3>1. Stay dry</h3><p>Staying cool and trying to minimize sweating is the first step to managing eczema in the heat. Stick to the shade when outside and move to an air-conditioned room when the temperature goes up. Avoid intense exercise and quickly change out of sweaty clothes. Opt for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics and loose fitting garments to allow for air circulation.</p><p class="textbox"><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Download WeatherWell</a> to predict how the weather will affect your skin!</p><h3>2. Rinse off after swimming</h3><p>When it’s hot, it’s hard to resist the urge to jump into a pool or sea to freshen up, but salt and chlorine can irritate sensitive, eczema-prone skin. Make sure to rinse your skin after a swim and reapply your moisturizer and sunscreen. If you’re not sure that there will be showers available, bring a spray bottle with clean water with you to rinse yourself with.</p><h3>3. Wear sunscreen</h3><p>Wearing a broad-spectrum SPF every day is the best way to protect your skin from <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn" target="_blank">sun damage</a> that can make eczema worse. Opt for mineral sunscreen if you have eczema, since some chemical sunscreens can irritate sensitive skin. Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide on the ingredient list: they help to shield your skin from UV rays.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Applying hand cream to soothe seasonal eczema" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt4dd3295a60282895/63034c1d41199d59f1e043bb/Applying_hand_cream_to_soothe_seasonal_eczema.png" /></figure><h3>4. Moisturize your skin</h3><p><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/beauty/summer-skincare" target="_blank">Keeping your skin moisturized</a> can help manage your eczema. When it comes to eczema-friendly moisturizers, the fewer ingredients the better. Use a fragrance-free lotion every day, especially after showering. It'll help to lock the moisture in and restore the skin’s protective barrier. Opt for heavier creams and ointments if your skin is very dry.</p><h3>5. Drink enough water</h3><p>Water is the best way to quench your thirst in the heat. It helps your body to regulate its core temperature to avoid overheating and keeps your skin healthy. Be sure to have your water bottle with you when you leave the house and take regular sips throughout the day. <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/diet-hydration/hot-weather-food" target="_blank">Certain fruits and vegetables</a> like strawberries, watermelon, and cucumber can also help keep you cool and hydrated in the heat.</p><h2>Key takeaways</h2><p>Heat and humidity can sometimes bring relief to people with eczema, but they can also make it worse. Sunburn and excessive sweating can dry out and irritate your sensitive, eczema-prone skin. You may notice your symptoms worsen after a day on the beach or by the pool, since salt water and chlorine can also cause irritation.</p><p>But a few simple things can help you soothe the itch and keep your seasonal eczema under control. Wear a broad-spectrum mineral SPF when out in the sun, rinse off after a swim, and moisturize your skin every day to have an eczema-free summer.</p>

A woman in a steamy bathroom applying moisturizer to soothe heat-induced eczema

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If you have eczema you may notice that heat and humidity can sometimes make it worse. Find out WeatherWell’s tips to prevent seasonal eczema flare-ups. 

Do Heat and Humidity Make Eczema Worse? 5 Tips for Seasonal Eczema

<p id="appendcover">If you look online, you’ll find plenty of creative ideas to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn-remedies" target="_blank">heal sunburns</a>. While some of these natural remedies can help reduce the pain and promote healing, others can do more harm than good. </p><p id="vinegar">Does vinegar help sunburn? Is mustard good for burns? We asked our experts to address some popular sunburn relief myths and recommend at-home remedies that actually work.</p><h2>Myth: Vinegar is good for sunburn</h2><p>A lot of people recommend using vinegar on sunburned skin because it has some anti-bacterial properties. But is it actually safe to use on the skin, let alone on a sunburn?</p><p>Vinegar is highly acidic, which means it can cause chemical burns, especially if you apply it straight to an already sensitive and damaged area — like a sunburn. It can lead to more inflammation, dryness, and pain and slow down the healing process. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A bottle of apple cider vinegar to use for sunburn" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltafd6bf8bdda8e5cf/6311df29cb61f5555c55dd24/A_bottle_of_apple_cider_vinegar_to_use_for_sunburn.png" /></figure><p>So why do so many people believe that vinegar is good for sunburns? Due to its antiseptic and antifungal properties, diluted vinegar <em>can</em> help with certain skin conditions like dandruff or <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/jock-itch" target="_blank">fungal infections</a>. But it’s very easy to get the proportions wrong, so why risk it? We recommend that you stay clear of it when you have sunburn. After all, you want to soothe the inflamed skin, not irritate it further.</p><p id="noxzema"><strong>Verdict: Not Safe!</strong></p><h2>Myth: Use noxzema for sunburn care</h2><p>Noxzema is a type of cold cream designed for acne-prone skin. Often, people use cold creams on sunburns because they provide a cooling, soothing sensation, which feels like it helps to heal the burn. Although noxzema can offer temporary relief and reduce redness and inflammation thanks to the salicylic acid, it also contains ingredients that can potentially irritate your sensitive skin, such as:</p><ul><li><strong>Eucalyptus oil</strong></li><li><strong>Menthol</strong></li><li><strong>Camphor</strong></li><li><strong>Limonene (from citrus peel)</strong></li><li><strong>Fragrance</strong></li></ul><p>In general, noxzema is not designed for sunburns and is not tested for this purpose. So it’s best to opt for other treatments that are tried and tested and backed by science. </p><p id="mustard"><strong>Verdict: Not Safe!</strong></p><p id="mustard" class="textbox"><strong>Prevent sunburn with WeatherWell!</strong><br/><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Get our free app</a> to keep track of the UV index and stay safe in the sun.</p><h2>Myth: Mustard helps burns</h2><p>Mustard contains a lot of nutrients and antioxidants and can <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23682616/" target="_blank">reduce inflammation</a>, but there is no scientific evidence to suggest it can help heal a burn and reduce pain. In fact, it is more likely to have the opposite effect. Even the mildest mustard has some heat to it; imagine putting it on your sensitive, sunburned skin — <em>ouch!</em> </p><blockquote>Mustard is a stimulant and can be irritating, especially to sensitive skin. </blockquote><p>But the store-bought condiments also contain vinegar and other ingredients that can further burn and damage your skin. So it’s best to keep it on your plate rather than on your skin.</p><p id="butter"><strong>Verdict: Not Safe!</strong></p><h2>Myth: Apply butter on a burn</h2><p>Another popular home remedy you should stay clear of. While fatty acids in butter can be moisturizing to the skin, you should avoid putting any greasy substance on a burn as it can make things worse. Here’s why: </p><ul><li>Firstly, you need to keep the wound clean, and introducing a non-sterile product like butter to the damaged area can cause infections.</li><li>Secondly, any type of grease creates a layer on your skin that prevents the burned area from cooling down, which can result in a more serious burn.</li></ul><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Butter that is not safe to put on a burn" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt7b53f237d5575b7e/6311df7bb31aea583acf448d/Butter_that_is_not_safe_to_put_on_a_burn.png" /></figure><p>What you need to do if you have a mild burn is to run it under cool water. It helps to clean the wound and stop the burn from further damaging your skin. Seek medical help if you have a more severe burn and experience swelling and blistering in the affected area. </p><p id="other"><strong>Verdict: Not Safe!</strong></p><h2>Other home remedies for sunburn that work</h2><p>We mentioned some of the most popular myths about treating sunburn you should avoid, but are there any natural remedies that can actually help? The answer is yes! Fortunately, there are several ways to calm your sunburned skin at home. Here are some of them. </p><h3>Apply cold water to your burn</h3><p id="appendbanner">Whether you have a sunburn or burned yourself on a hot surface, the best way to avoid any serious damage to your skin is to cool it down as soon as possible. Have a cool shower or run the affected area under cool water for 10 to 15 minutes to stop the burning, ease the pain, and reduce the swelling. If you don’t have access to running water, a cold compress should also do the trick. But avoid using ice as extreme temperatures can cause more damage to your skin.</p><h3>Use a gentle moisturizer</h3><p>Any burn leaves your skin dehydrated and tender. Keeping your skin moisturized can minimize discomfort and help your sunburn heal faster. <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn-lotion" target="_blank">Applying a gentle, fragrance-free lotion</a> after a shower or whenever your skin starts feeling tight can <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/natural-dry-skin-remedies" target="_blank">prevent dryness</a> and reduce irritation. Gently rub the moisturizer on your skin until it’s fully absorbed. You can apply several thin layers if needed, but avoid thick, heavy creams that can clog the pores and create a greasy layer on your skin.</p><h3>Treat your burns with aloe vera</h3><p>Aloe is a bit of a miracle ingredient: it has anti-inflammatory properties, helps to heal your burn, and reduce pain. You can use the pure gel taken straight from the succulent’s leaves or get a moisturizer with aloe in it — but make sure it doesn’t contain any ingredients that can irritate your skin. </p><blockquote>Applying aloe vera gel to your burn can keep it moisturized and prevent blisters and skin peeling. </blockquote><p>To further soothe your damaged skin, keep the gel in the fridge and reapply it throughout the day to cool the burn down. </p><h2>Bottom line</h2><p>Burns are one of the most common household injuries, so no wonder there are a lot of myths about treating them at home. Some of the popular natural remedies for burns like vinegar, mustard, and butter can cause more damage to your inflamed skin. Since your goal in treating a burn is to reduce pain, prevent infection, and help it heal faster, you should avoid using anything that can cause irritation — for example, highly acidic vinegar or heavily-fragranced creams. Instead, clean the burn with cool water and keep it moisturized with a lightweight lotion or aloe vera gel. Mild burns should heal within a week or two, but if your burn gets more painful with time and you start to run a fever, seek immediate medical help.</p>

A make-up bag and a bottle of vinegar to use for sunburn

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Can you use noxzema, mustard, and vinegar on sunburns? WeatherWell experts address popular burn relief myths and share their home remedies that work.

Vinegar or Noxzema for Sunburn? Don't Do That! Debunking Skincare Myths

<p>Mosquitoes are annoying, there’s no denying that. They can be a nuisance during a summer picnic, and their constant buzzing can keep you up all night. </p><p id="appendcover">But can you actually be allergic to mosquito bites? If you often get a big, red bump after a mosquito bite that’s very itchy and painful, chances are you may be allergic. </p><p id="signs">Let’s take a look at other signs of Skeeter syndrome, or an allergy to mosquito bites, and what you can do to relieve the itching and prevent mosquitoes from biting you in the first place.</p><h2>Signs of a mosquito bite</h2><p>Ever noticed red, itchy bumps on your skin after you’ve spent time outdoors? These are probably mosquito bites.</p><p>Most mosquito bites happen in wooded areas or near water — mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so you’re more likely to come across them in damp areas and humid climates. They are most active at dusk or dawn, but they can bite you during the day too. </p><p>Mosquitoes are attracted by the body heat, scent, and chemicals in our sweat. When a mosquito finds someone to feed on, it pierces the skin with its specialized, spear-like appendage called a proboscis to draw blood. You can recognize a mosquito bite by these common signs:</p><ul><li><strong>A small red bump</strong></li><li><strong>Swelling</strong></li><li><strong>Itchiness</strong></li><li><strong>Dark, bruise-like spots</strong></li></ul><p>It’s not uncommon for a mosquito to bite you several times, so you may notice several bumps close together, often on your arms or legs. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman with big mosquito bites on her shoulder" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt72ea1ebd30357b18/63611930e63a425d5dc5d010/A_woman_with_big_mosquito_bites_on_her_shoulder.png" /></figure><h3>Why do mosquito bites swell?</h3><p>​​When a mosquito’s proboscis pierces your skin, a small amount of saliva is released into your skin. The red, itchy bump you get at the bite site is your body’s reaction to the proteins in the mosquito’s saliva. </p><blockquote id="skeeter">How bad the swelling is depends on your sensitivity to mosquito bites. </blockquote><p id="skeeter">While some people may have just a tiny mark that is barely noticeable, others have a strong allergic reaction to mosquito bites resulting in big, sore bumps. In this case, mosquito bites may be particularly itchy. Try to resist the urge to scratch the bite: you may break the skin and make it more susceptible to infections, preventing it from healing faster.</p><h2>What is Skeeter syndrome?</h2><p>Skeeter syndrome is an allergic reaction to a mosquito’s saliva that results in big, red bumps at the site of a mosquito bite. People with Skeeter syndrome may experience significant inflammation and swelling after a mosquito bite and sometimes can even develop a fever. </p><p>When you’re allergic to mosquito bites, your symptoms may appear 8–10 hours after the bite. They usually resolve on their own within 3–10 days, if there are no complications. However, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:</p><ul><li><strong>Fever</strong></li><li><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/pains-and-aches/headache-types" target="_blank"><strong>Headache</strong></a></li><li><strong>Nausea</strong></li><li><strong>Muscle weakness</strong></li><li><strong>Hives</strong></li><li><strong>Wheezing</strong></li></ul><p id="appendbanner">These symptoms can be a sign of a severe allergic reaction or a more serious condition that requires medical help. For example, a skin infection called cellulitis can cause similar symptoms to Skeeter syndrome, but it usually develops over a few days as opposed to within hours of a mosquito bite in the case of Skeeter syndrome.</p><h3>Skeeter syndrome vs. normal mosquito bite: What’s the difference?</h3><p><em>So how big can a mosquito bite really get if you have Skeeter syndrome?</em></p><p>​​A normal mosquito bite is usually just a small red bump less than half an inch (or 1.3 centimeters) in diameter. It may be a bit swollen and red, but the redness and swelling normally go down within a few days.</p><p>If you have Skeeter syndrome, bumps up to 4 inches (2–10 centimeters) in diameter may appear quickly after the bite and progress over the next several days. These bumps can also be:</p><ul><li><strong>Very itchy</strong></li><li><strong>Hard</strong></li><li><strong>Warm to the touch</strong></li><li><strong>Painful</strong></li></ul><h3>How rare is Skeeter syndrome?</h3><p>Skeeter syndrome can affect anyone, but it’s most common among children, older adults, and people with immune system disorders. Very young children who haven’t yet developed an immune response to mosquito bites are the most likely to be allergic to them. </p><blockquote id="treat">Skeeter syndrome is quite rare, and you can usually grow out of it — your symptoms may improve with age or after being exposed to mosquito bites often enough for your body to become immune to them. </blockquote><p id="treat">But you can develop it later in life too. This may be caused by the changes in your immune system or you moving to a different area where you encounter different types of mosquitoes your body isn’t familiar with.</p><h2>How to treat allergic reactions to mosquito bites</h2><p>Normally mosquito bites don’t cause any lasting harm and don’t require treatment. But if they are very itchy and swollen, it is natural to want to speed up the healing process or at least relieve unpleasant symptoms.</p><p>Just <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/conditions/allergies/spring-allergies" target="_blank">like with most other allergies</a>, you can use oral antihistamines and topical steroid creams to improve Skeeter syndrome. These medications can bring down swelling and inflammation and soothe itchiness. Still, it’s best to consult your doctor before starting any treatments. They will review your symptoms and recommend the right medication for you.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman spraying insect repellent in the woods to prevent mosquito bites" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt92a574f42011e4f6/636119ed6eed4a5820f4cc14/A_woman_spraying_insect_repellent_in_the_woods_to_prevent_mosquito_bites.png" /></figure><h3>Home remedies for big mosquito bites</h3><p>Most itchy mosquito bites only last a few days and heal on their own. But sometimes the itching may be so strong you can’t help but scratch that little bump. These home remedies and tips can help soothe the itching and make the bites heal faster:</p><ul><li><strong>Apply a cool compress.</strong> It can bring down the swelling and stop the itching.</li><li><strong>Use aloe vera gel.</strong> It can soothe the inflammation, relieve the itching, and help your skin heal faster.</li><li><strong>Take an oatmeal bath</strong> or apply an oatmeal paste to the bite to soothe the itch.</li><li><strong>Dab some baking soda paste on the bite. </strong>It can stop the itching and bring down the swelling.</li><li><strong>Make a chamomile tea compress.</strong> Chamomile has natural antioxidant and antihistamine properties that can help calm down inflamed skin.</li><li><strong>Apply calamine lotion to the bite. </strong>It has a cooling effect that helps to soothe the itchy skin.</li><li>And lastly, if the itch is too strong, <strong>press your fingernail on the bite </strong>for a few seconds. It can help to temporarily relieve the itch without actually scratching the bite.</li></ul><p id="prevent">If you want to make sure not to scratch the bite, you can cover the bump with a bandage. It can also prevent infections if you have already broken the skin on it. </p><h2>How to prevent mosquito bites</h2><p>Even if you’re not allergic to mosquito bites, getting bitten by them isn’t much fun. Sometimes mosquitos can carry various viruses and parasites that can cause disease. </p><p>Mosquitoes tend to come out at dawn and dusk, so staying indoors during this time and keeping your windows closed — or using a mosquito net on your windows — can help avoid bites. </p><p class="textbox"><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Download WeatherWell</a> to stay informed about upcoming weather trends and plan your day with confidence.</p><p>But you can go one step further in avoiding mosquito bites. Since mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, you can eliminate any potential breeding grounds around your home:</p><ul><li><strong>Fix any leaks.</strong></li><li><strong>Keep rain gutters clean.</strong></li><li><strong>Clean unused flower pots and other containers that can gather water.</strong></li><li><strong>Empty children’s paddle pools after use.</strong></li></ul><p>If you want to enjoy the great outdoors without pesky mosquitoes bothering you, cover as much skin as possible and use insect repellent on any exposed skin. You can treat your clothing with a repellent too. Opt for <a href="https://www.aaaai.org/Tools-for-the-Public/Conditions-Library/Allergies/taking-a-bite-out-of-mosquitoes" target="_blank">products with 6–25 percent DEET</a> — they can protect you from mosquitoes for up to 6 hours. If you’re applying repellent directly on your skin, make sure to test it on a small patch first. They may cause a <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/itchy-skin" target="_blank">skin reaction</a>, especially if you are prone to allergies and have sensitive skin. </p><p>Burning citronella-scented candles when you’re camping or spending time outdoors can also help deter mosquitoes. If you have Skeeter syndrome, you may even want to take an antihistamine before going outside. It won’t stop mosquitoes from biting you, but it can prevent a severe allergic reaction if they do get to you.</p><h2>Key takeaways</h2><p>Allergic reactions to mosquito bites are pretty rare; people with lower immune systems, children, and older adults are more likely to have Skeeter syndrome. Its most common signs are big, red bumps after a mosquito bite that can be particularly itchy and painful. Normally mosquito bites don’t require treatment, but taking antihistamines and applying a cold compress or aloe vera gel to the bite may help bring down the itchiness and swelling and help the bites heal faster.</p>

A woman with big mosquito bites on her skin doing yoga in her room

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Do you get a big, red bump at the site of a mosquito bite? Wondering if you can be allergic to mosquito bites? Find the answers in this article by WeatherWell!

Are You Allergic to Mosquito Bites? Symptoms of Skeeter Syndrome

How to Tell if You’re Allergic to Mosquito Bites: Signs of Skeeter Syndrome

<p id="appendcover">Spending time outside is healthy and fun, especially when the weather is nice. But the itchy, red, painful skin you can get after enjoying the outdoors is anything but fun, and it can be more serious than it appears.</p><h2 id="whatis">What is a sunburn, actually?</h2><p>Sunburn is your body’s reaction to the damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation that comes from the sun or artificial light sources like the lamps used in tanning beds.</p><p>The main symptoms of sunburn are redness and pain, often accompanied by swelling, itching, and sometimes even blistering and sores.<br/>Even worse, sunburns cause long-term skin damage that accumulates if you get burned more than once. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a history of five or more sunburns doubles your risk of developing melanoma, a potentially deadly kind of skin cancer.</p><h3>Does sunburn turn into a tan?</h3><p>While many people want to have tan skin, it’s just another sign of skin damage. A tan appears when your body tries to protect itself from UV radiation by increasing the production of melanin, a dark pigment.</p><p>Yes, sunburn can turn into a tan, but there’s no guarantee that it will. It largely depends on your skin type. If you have very light skin, you probably won’t get a tan, no matter how hard you try.</p><blockquote>Even if your skin is capable of tanning, there’s no completely safe way to do it. </blockquote><p>Suntan, no matter how attractive you find it, is a sign of skin damage that can lead to premature skin aging and increase the risk of cancer.</p><p id="causes">If you really want your skin to look darker, try UV-free options like self-tanning sprays or lotions. They contain an ingredient called <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sunless-tanning/art-20046803" target="_blank">dihydroxyacetone (often listed on the bottle as DHA)</a>. This ingredient interacts with dead cells on the skin’s surface and darkens the skin temporarily.</p><h2>What causes sunburn?</h2><p>Unlike the burn you get when you touch a hot stove, sunburn is a radiation burn. It’s caused by UV rays, not the sun’s heat. This is why you can get a sunburn on <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sunburn/symptoms-causes/syc-20355922" target="_blank">a cold and cloudy day, too</a>.</p><p class="textbox"><strong>Detect sunburn causes early with WeatherWell!</strong><strong><br/></strong><a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/weatherwell-health-forecast/id1565394543" target="_blank">Download our app for free</a> to get timely weather and health predictions</p><p>The sun emits three kinds of ultraviolet rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. You don’t have to worry about UVC rays because they don’t reach the Earth’s surface. But both UVA and UVB rays can damage your skin by altering the DNA of your skin cells.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="An old man sitting on the beach with a sunburn" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt7188bdadb708ffee/6283bf6f3b65ce548fb9d2dc/A_man_with_a_sunburn.png" /></figure><p>The damage caused by UVA rays is associated with <a href="https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/uv-radiation/" target="_blank">premature skin aging</a>. These rays maintain the same strength throughout the year, so you’re exposed to them no matter what the weather is like.&nbsp;</p><p>UVB rays can cause serious burns and <a href="https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/radiation-exposure/uv-radiation.html" target="_blank">direct damage to the DNA of your skin cells</a>. Scientists believe that UVB rays are responsible for most skin cancers.</p><p id="signs">The sun isn’t the only source of UV radiation. Tanning beds, welding arcs, and xenon arc lamps also emit UV rays.</p><h2>Signs of sunburn</h2><p>The first signs of sunburn are redness and pain. They can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:</p><ul><li><strong>Swelling</strong></li><li><strong>Blisters</strong></li><li><strong>Nausea</strong></li><li><strong>Weakness</strong></li><li><strong>Itching</strong></li><li><strong>Peeling of the skin</strong></li><li><strong>Fever</strong></li></ul><h3>Degrees of sunburn&nbsp;</h3><p>To describe the intensity of a sunburn, medical professionals refer to it as a first-degree or second-degree sunburn.</p><p>A first-degree sunburn only affects the outer layer of the skin. Its symptoms include:</p><ul><li><strong>Redness</strong></li><li><strong>Pain</strong></li><li><strong>A feeling of warmth</strong></li><li><strong>Swelling</strong></li><li><strong>Peeling skin several days after sun exposure</strong></li></ul><p>First-degree burns usually heal by themselves within a week. However, you should see a doctor if the sunburn covers a large area of your body; becomes infected; or if you have a fever, chills, or headaches.</p><p>Second-degree sunburns are deeper. They penetrate the outer layer of the skin and damage the layer under it. You can recognize a second-degree sunburn by:</p><ul><li><strong>A deep red color</strong></li><li><strong>Widespread swelling and blistering</strong></li><li><strong>White discoloration</strong></li><li><strong>Skin that looks shiny and wet</strong></li><li><strong>Intense pain</strong></li></ul><p id="prevention">Second-degree sunburns can take weeks to heal and should be treated by medical professionals. In severe cases, people with second-degree sunburns may need to be treated in a hospital.</p><h2>How to prevent sunburn: safety tips</h2><p>Sunburns damage your skin, making it age faster and increasing the risk of potentially deadly cancers. Fortunately, they’re easy to prevent.&nbsp;</p><h3>Never forget your sunscreen</h3><p>Many people think that you can only get a sunburn on a hot and sunny day. However, both UVA and UVB rays can penetrate clouds and damage your skin even if the sky is overcast.</p><p>This is why sunscreen is a must. Look for products with a high sun protection factor (SPF) and broad-spectrum protection. This will ensure that you’re protected against both UVA and UVB rays.</p><blockquote>Reapply sunscreen every two hours or even more frequently if you’re in the water or sweating a lot.&nbsp;</blockquote><p>It’s also possible to get sunburn on your lips, so consider applying a lip balm with a high SPF when going outside.</p><p>Of course, no sunscreen can block UV radiation completely. This is why it’s also important to use other methods of preventing sunburn.</p><p>For some people, sunscreen can cause skin irritation. Fortunately, there are quite a few other ways to protect yourself from the sun.</p><h3>Cover your skin and eyes</h3><p>While many people love showing some skin in the summer months, remember that any exposed skin is vulnerable to sun damage. Long sleeves, long pants or skirts, and wide-brimmed hats are your best friends when it comes to protecting yourself from UV rays.</p><p></p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img asset_uid="blta5745588ff2d4c4d" alt="A smiling woman applying sunscreen to prevent sunburn" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blta5745588ff2d4c4d/6283bf6e3b9b8554904a088e/A_woman_applies_sunscreen.png" /></figure><p>You can also find <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/uv-protective-clothing" target="_blank">sun-protective clothes</a> that offer additional protection against UV radiation. They are densely woven and made of fibers that absorb or reflect UV rays. Some high-tech fabrics are also treated with chemical UV absorbers.</p><p>Sunburn can <a href="https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/eye-protection/" target="_blank">affect your eyes</a>, too. This is not just uncomfortable; too much exposure to UV radiation can increase your risk of developing eye diseases like cataracts or eyelid cancer. This is why you should <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/beauty/winter-sunglasses" target="_blank">wear high-quality sunglasses</a> that will protect your eyes. As an added bonus, sunglasses or a hat can also prevent the delicate skin around your eyes from aging prematurely.</p><h3>Stay in the shade</h3><p>If you can, stay in shaded areas. You’ll still be exposed to UV radiation but to a lesser degree. Also, staying in the shade can reduce the risk of overheating your body and ending up with <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/heat-exhaustion" target="_blank">heat exhaustion</a> (or, even worse, heatstroke).</p><p id="appendbanner">Of course, you can’t always move into a shaded area, especially if you work or practice sports outdoors. In this case, make sure you remember your sunscreen and protective clothing.</p><h3>Avoid tanning (or opt for UV-free tanners)</h3><p>There’s no safe way to get a suntan, especially if your skin is very light and burns easily. It’s best to avoid tanning entirely. Tanning beds are not safer than staying in the sun.</p><p>If you really want to look tanned, look for self-tanning products.</p><h3>Be aware of your medications</h3><p>There are <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/special-features/sun-and-your-medicine" target="_blank">many medications</a> that can make your skin more prone to sunburn. Some of them are:</p><ul><li><strong>Acne treatments that contain isotretinoin</strong></li><li><strong>Some antibiotics</strong></li><li><strong>Certain types of antidepressants</strong></li><li><strong>Diuretics (medications that make your kidneys produce more urine)</strong></li><li><strong>Oral contraceptives</strong></li><li><strong>Some allergy medications</strong></li></ul><p>If you take any medications, check the patient information leaflets for information on whether sun sensitivity is a known side effect. If you’re in doubt, talk to your health care provider. Don’t stop taking your medication without your doctor’s say-so.</p><p id="relief">If you’re at an increased risk of sunburn because of your medications, be sure to practice the sunburn prevention tips we’ve just mentioned.</p><h2>Sunburn relief</h2><p>The DNA damage caused by a sunburn can’t be reversed. However, there are some helpful ways to reduce pain and discomfort as the burn is healing.</p><h3>Take a painkiller</h3><p>To reduce swelling and soothe pain, you can take an over-the-counter painkiller like aspirin, ibuprofen, or paracetamol (your doctor can help you identify which painkiller is best for you).</p><h3>Cool and moisturize the affected area</h3><p>Use cold compresses or take cold baths to soothe the skin. Avoid putting ice or oils directly on the burnt skin.&nbsp;</p><p>After taking a cold bath or shower, pat yourself dry while leaving a little water on the skin’s surface. Then <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn-lotion" target="_blank">apply a moisturizer</a>, preferably one that contains aloe. Moisturizers contain ingredients that will trap the water you’ve left on the skin. This will help reduce dryness and irritation.</p><h3>Leave the blisters alone</h3><p>If you develop blisters, resist the temptation to open them. You won’t speed up the healing process and you might infect your skin.</p><h3>Rehydrate your body</h3><p>Burns can dehydrate you. While your sunburn is healing, drink more fluids and eat more <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/diet-hydration/hot-weather-food" target="_blank">vegetables and fruit with a high water content</a>.</p><h3>Stay out of the sun</h3><p>Your skin is already damaged by the sun, so avoid exposing it to further damage. Try to stay out of the sun and cover sunburnt skin with densely woven clothing when going outside.</p><h3>How long does it take for a sunburn to heal?</h3><p>First-degree sunburns usually heal within a week (sometimes as little as three days), while second-degree sunburns can take much longer.</p><p>If the sunburn is severe enough to make the skin peel, this will happen three to eight days after sun exposure. When your skin begins to peel, it means that your body is actively getting rid of damaged cells. While it may be tempting to exfoliate a healing sunburn in order to remove the dead skin faster, <a href="https://www.skincancer.org/blog/why-does-my-skin-peel-when-i-get-sunburned/" target="_blank">this is not a good idea</a>. The peeling will stop by itself when the sunburn has healed.</p><p>If your sunburn doesn’t heal within a few days, be sure to seek medical advice.</p><h2>Key takeaways</h2><p>Sunburns are radiation burns caused by ultraviolet rays. Sunburns can inflict permanent damage to the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer, so it’s critical that you protect yourself.</p><p>To prevent sunburns, use sunscreen and cover your skin with protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. If you still get sunburned, avoid further sun exposure and soothe the burn with cool compresses and moisturizers.</p>

Two burnt toasts as a metaphor for sunburn

Your-Guide-to-Sunburn

Find out everything you need to know about sunburn symptoms and ways to treat it with Weatherwell!

Your Guide to Sunburn: Signs, Causes, and Relief

<p><em>Do you struggle with breakouts in hot and humid weather?</em></p><p><em>Does intense exercise trigger pimples on your chest, back, or shoulders?</em></p><p id="appendcover">If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. When the weather is scorching many people notice skin irritation and breakouts — commonly called sweat pimples.</p><p id="what">In this article, we unpack the causes and symptoms of sweat pimples. We'll also guide you through lifestyle tips to help you clear up your skin.</p><h2>What are sweat pimples?</h2><p id="causes">Sweat pimples are a common type of acne. Also known as heat acne or summer acne, it typically occurs due to hot weather, humidity, intense exercise, and tight clothing. These pesky pimples don't just affect your complexion — they can ruin your self-confidence.</p><h2>What causes sweat pimples?</h2><p>Sweat pimples form when excess perspiration — from hot, humid weather or intense exercise — builds up and irritates your skin.</p><p id="appendbanner">Don't get us wrong! Sweating is essential — it expels toxins and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/activities/natural-thermoregulation" target="_blank">regulates your body temperature</a>. However, tight clothing and hot fabrics create friction and prevent sweat from evaporating. It stops you from cooling down naturally, encourages chafing, and keeps your skin warm and moist. Plus, dirt, bacteria, and dead skin cells stick to sweaty areas where they may clog pores and hair follicles.</p><p>Excess sweat also increases the production of sebum — the oil secreted by your skin. In short, these factors create an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply and cause pimples.</p><p>While sweat pimples can pop up anywhere on your skin, they're more common in areas rich in sweat glands. This includes the forehead, décolletage, chest, back, and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/jock-itch" target="_blank">groin</a>. Pimples also develop between skin folds where sweat and grime get trapped.</p><h3>Who is at risk for sweat pimples?</h3><p>As is the case with many skin issues, various factors make you more vulnerable to sweat pimples.</p><p>These include:</p><ul><li><strong>A predisposition to acne</strong></li><li><strong>Living in a hot, humid climate</strong></li><li><strong>Wearing tight clothes that chafe your skin during exercise</strong></li><li><strong>Regularly engaging in high-intensity exercise</strong></li><li><a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/sport/summer-workouts" target="_blank"><strong>Exercising outdoors</strong></a><strong> during the hottest part of the day</strong></li><li><strong>Not changing your clothes after exercise</strong></li><li><strong>Not showering often enough</strong></li><li><strong>Hyperactive sweat glands</strong></li></ul><p>If one or more of these apply to you, you may be more likely to develop sweat pimples.</p><h3>Are sweat pimples and heat rash the same thing?</h3><p>The pimples on your neck, chest, back, or groin may be a heat rash and not sweat pimples. A heat rash happens when sweat glands under the skin get blocked, causing itchy, red bumps. Unfortunately, the sweat glands may become infected and painful.</p><p id="prevent">Both skin issues can make you dread warm weather, but they have similar solutions.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="Summer skincare products to prevent sweat pimples" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltf20a719c58cafc35/6335772c4b410a7ace405785/summer_skincare_products_to_prevent_sweat_pimples.png" /></figure><h2>Preventing sweat pimples</h2><p>Your enjoyment of warm weather and exercise can quickly disappear if you struggle with sweat pimples.</p><p>Luckily, we have six tips to keep sweat pimples at bay.</p><h3>1. Choose comfortable clothing</h3><p>Wearing tight clothing in the heat and when doing cardio encourages excessive sweating — it's a recipe for skin chafing and sweat pimples.</p><p>Let your skin breathe by wearing lightweight, comfortable clothes made from cotton, linen, or a blend of breathable fabrics. You want moisture to escape, not hang around on your skin and cause pimples!</p><blockquote>When working out, loose-fitting gear made with moisture-wicking material is a must-have. </blockquote><p>Polyester, nylon, and bamboo are examples of quick-drying fabric. They pull sweat off your skin, keeping you cool and minimizing skin irritation.</p><p>Finally, don't forget to wash your sweaty workout clothes, towels, and equipment before using them again.</p><h3>2. Keep your cool</h3><p>Staying cool is essential to prevent excessive sweating and acne flare-ups.</p><p>Here are some strategies to help you stay comfortable on hot, humid days and prevent sweat pimples from developing:</p><ul><li><strong>Stay in an air-conditioned area or use a fan to cool down.</strong></li><li><strong>Keep your home well-ventilated.</strong></li><li><strong>If you're outdoors, seek shade during the hottest part of the day.</strong></li><li><strong>Apply a cold, damp cloth or an ice pack</strong> wrapped in a towel to your body to lower your body temperature.</li><li><strong>Take a cool bath or shower.</strong></li><li><strong>Don't wear tight clothes.</strong></li><li><strong>Drink ice water throughout the day</strong> — especially during intense exercise.</li></ul><p>Implementing these habits in the heat will give you some much-needed relief and may dramatically reduce sweat pimples. </p><p class="textbox"><a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank">Install WeatherWell</a> to keep track of the heat and humidity levels and get personalized tips to keep your skin healthy!</p><h3>3. Exercise at a different time</h3><p>For many people, heavy sweating from intense exercise means one thing: sweat pimples.</p><p>To avoid this, we suggest switching up your workout schedule. Check the forecast on the <a href="https://weatherpulse.onelink.me/vCcq/qn3dleib" target="_blank"><strong>WeatherWell</strong></a> app and plan your exercise session when the air is cool, and humidity is lower. </p><blockquote>Early morning or late afternoons are good times to exercise outdoors — especially if you enjoy jogging, cycling, or hiking. </blockquote><p>Or you can save your skin from sweat by raising your heart rate with laps in the pool.</p><p>If you only have time to work out in the middle of the day, opt for doing low-intensity workouts — like yoga or Pilates — in an air-conditioned room or gym.</p><h3>4. Hit the shower</h3><p>Maintaining good personal hygiene is essential to reduce and prevent heat pimples.</p><p>Always have a cool shower or bath immediately after exercise to remove a build-up of sweat, dirt, and skin cells. To keep your pores clear and kill bacteria, use a pH-balanced skin cleanser that contains antibacterial ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and tea tree oil. We suggest asking a dermatologist about the right product for you.</p><p><strong>Lifestyle tip:</strong> When mixed with sweat and oil, makeup may clog your pores and exacerbate heat acne. So, let your skin breathe by cleaning off your makeup before exercise.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img asset_uid="blta6ceaf3464844b3b" alt="Bottles with water condensation as a metaphor for sweat pimples" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blta6ceaf3464844b3b/63357637fef925355ad7ce98/Bottles_with_water_condensation_as_a_metaphor_for_sweat_pimples.png" /></figure><h3>5. Stay hydrated: Inside and out</h3><p>Drinking plenty of pure water cools you down, supports detoxification, and keeps your skin glowing. Aim to drink 2-3 liters of pure water throughout the day to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/lifestyle/diet-hydration/summer-drinks" target="_blank">prevent dehydration in hot weather</a> and after exercise.</p><p>We also suggest hydrating your skin barrier from the outside. Apply a lightweight moisturizer suitable for acne-prone skin to clean, dry skin in the morning and evening to soothe irritation. Finally, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn" target="_blank">protect you against sun damage</a>.</p><h3>6. Don't touch</h3><p>Touching or picking at pimples is terrible for your skin. It slows down the healing process and encourages the spread of sweat, dirt, and bacteria to your face and other areas.</p><p>So, keep your hands well away!</p><h2>Wrapping up</h2><p>We understand how unpleasant sweat pimples can be, but there's no need to spend your summers avoiding exercise and other sweaty situations!</p><p>Wearing breathable clothes, showering regularly, and implementing other tips from this article will keep you cool and improve your complexion.</p><p><em>Please note: If pimples persist or become more severe, please speak to your healthcare provider.</em></p>

A woman experiencing sweat pimples on her face in the heat and after intense exercise

Sweat_Pimples-min.png

Discover the causes and risks of sweat pimples, as well as the best ways to prevent skin irritation and breakouts in the heat.

Sweat Pimples: Causes, Risk Factors, and Solutions

<p id="appendcover">Summer holidays are for two things: fun and sun — but if you’re too enthusiastic about soaking up some rays, your skin might be left red and tender. So, what can you do to nurture it back to health?</p><p>Of course, the best idea is to avoid sunburn altogether. But even if you’re very careful when going out in the sun — always wearing sunscreen and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/uv-protective-clothing" target="_blank">protective clothing</a> — your skin can still get sunburned.  </p><p id="benefits">In this article, we’ll discuss how to choose the best lotion for sunburn relief and share the best natural products and <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn-remedies" target="_blank">remedies for healing sunburn</a>. </p><h2>Is lotion good for sunburn?</h2><p>Most sunburns heal by themselves within a few days, depending on how severe they are. Still, the pain can stop you from enjoying your day-to-day activities — even sleeping, wearing clothes, or taking a shower can become uncomfortable. So you may want to help it on its way out: keeping the sunburned area moisturized and hydrated with a lotion will speed up the healing process and prevent further damage to your skin. </p><p id="choose">There are a few rules to using lotion on a sunburn. First, you need to cool your sunburned skin down. Even the most effective lotion with the best ingredients (more on that later) can trap the heat if applied to the skin right after you move out of the sun, which only leads to more inflammation. Take a cool shower or bath first, then gently pat yourself dry with a towel. Make sure not to rub your sensitive skin though — it’s not only painful but can also cause more damage. The final step of your after-sun care routine is to apply a moisturizer when your skin is still damp to lock moisture in. </p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman applying a sunburn lotion" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/blt7ed9fd9909fe02d6/636baea90b5d2311678e5e29/A_woman_applying_a_sunburn_lotion.png" /></figure><h2>How to choose the best lotion for sunburn</h2><p>The goal of using a lotion for sunburn is to moisturize your skin, but that doesn’t mean that any lotion will do: some of them work better than others.</p><p>When it comes to the best sunburn moisturizer, the fewer ingredients the better. Look for a lightweight, fragrance-free lotion that will be gentle to your sensitive skin and won’t cause more irritation. </p><h3>Ingredients to look for</h3><p>With a huge variety of moisturizing products on the market, it can be difficult to find the one that works best for sunburn. Let’s take a look at some of the ingredients that can help get the sting out of your sunburn.</p><ul id="appendbanner"><li><strong>Aloe vera</strong> is a common ingredient for after-sun care. Aloe-based lotions help soothe and hydrate the skin and reduce inflammation and itchiness.</li><li><strong>Ceramides.</strong> These fatty acids help restore your skin’s protective barrier and improve dryness and irritation.</li><li id="appendbanner"><strong>Antioxidants like vitamin E</strong> help reduce inflammation and counteract some of the sun damage that can lead to premature aging and skin cancer.</li></ul><h3>Gel, lotion, or cream?</h3><p>When it comes to the consistency of your sunburn lotion, it largely comes down to your personal preference. Gels tend to be more cooling, while lotions and lightweight creams are more hydrating. </p><blockquote>But avoid thick creams, heavy ointments, and oils. </blockquote><p>An effective sunburn lotion should let your skin breathe, and heavy creams with high oil content — although very nourishing and moisturizing — can create a layer on your skin, preventing it from releasing heat and slowing the healing process. Plus, thick ointments can be quite hard to apply as you often need to rub them into your skin, which may be painful with sunburn. Lightweight lotions in a spray form work better in this case — you can just spray the lotion on and lightly pat it into your skin.</p><h3>Face moisturizers and sunburn</h3><p>Sunburned skin can often feel tight, dry, and itchy, so it’s important to keep it moisturized throughout the day. But the lotion you use to treat sunburn on your body may not be suitable for your face. The skin on your face is usually thinner and more sensitive than on your body, so it needs a little more care. </p><p>If you’re generally not big on skincare, you may be tempted to go with the one-size-fits-all solution. But body lotions can clog your pores and cause irritation, so we recommend getting a separate face moisturizer. The same rules apply here — opt for a lightweight, fragrance-free formula with sunburn-friendly ingredients and apply it to your face twice a day or whenever it feels particularly dry.</p><p>On the other hand, if you normally use a lot of ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, and AHA and BHA in your skincare, it’s best to move away from these for a bit as they can be irritating to your sunburned skin. Give it some time to recover and switch to a basic moisturizer with vitamin E or ceramides to help your skin bounce back faster.</p><figure style = "float: none;width: autopx;max-width:auto;"><img alt="A woman with a gel sunburn moisturizer" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blte15d17456f6fb4d5/bltb250d6bf30901915/636bb031ea782c10b54c8c10/A_woman_with_a_gel_sunburn_moisturizer.png" /></figure><h3>Can you use CeraVe for sunburn?</h3><p id="naturalrelief">As the name would suggest, CeraVe products contain ceramides that are great for hydrating and restoring the skin. So yes, you can use a basic CeraVe moisturizer for sunburn. They are often fragrance-free too, so that’s also a plus. That being said, any plain moisturizer with ceramides, aloe vera, or vitamin E would work just as great at repairing your skin and helping it heal from sunburn. </p><h2>4 Best natural products for sunburn relief</h2><p>Lotions work great at keeping your skin moisturized, but they may not always be available. If you are in in pinch or just want to <a href="https://journal.weatherwell.app/collection/symptoms/skin-issues/sunburn-remedies-myths" target="_blank">try some at-home remedies</a>, here are some great natural options for sunburn relief:</p><h3>1. Aloe vera</h3><p>Having hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera is a popular home remedy for various skin concerns, including sunburns. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK74820/" target="_blank">A review</a> of four studies found that aloe vera is effective at treating first- and second-degree burns. </p><blockquote>It can prevent blisters and reduce swelling and redness, so it’s definitely one of the best products for sunburn out there. </blockquote><p>You can use fresh aloe gel from the plant or get it from a store, but be sure to choose one without irritating additives. </p><h3>2. Oatmeal bath</h3><p>Oatmeal is another popular product for easing skin irritation. To treat a sunburn, mix ground-up rolled oats, milk, and honey into a paste and apply it to the affected area. Or you can steep some ground oats in a bath — put them in a cloth or a sachet to make the clean-up easier — and just relax in the soothing oat-infused water.</p><h3>3. Witch hazel</h3><p>The tannins in witch hazel help <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11867970/" target="_blank">reduce inflammation and redness</a>, which makes it a great option for treating sunburn at home. Gently pat witch hazel on your sunburn with a cotton pad or make a compress by soaking a clean cloth with witch hazel. You can keep it in the fridge for about an hour for an added cooling effect. But make sure to use an alcohol-free solution as alcohol can dry out and irritate your skin.</p><h3>4. Black tea</h3><p>Just like witch hazel, black tea is rich in anti-inflammatory tannins. To use it on your sunburn, brew some strong black tea, let it steep for an hour, and leave it in the fridge to cool down. Then take some cotton wool or a clean cloth, soak it in the cold tea, and hold it to your sunburn for 15 minutes. Let the tea do its magic and don’t wash it off afterward. </p><h2>Wrapping up</h2><p>The best way to help your sunburn heal faster is to keep it moisturized. The best lotion for sunburn is lightweight, gentle to the skin, and fragrance-free. Moisturizers with ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and ceramides are most effective at soothing the irritated skin and restoring it back to health. </p>

How_to_Choose_a_Sunburn_Lotion-min.png

Find out what to look for in a sunburn relief lotion and what are some of the best natural products for healing sunburn. 

How to Choose the Best Sunburn Lotion: Ingredients, Consistency, and Natural Alternatives

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