A love and hate relationship
Summer is fantastic! I've had my best memories happen during this season. There's something about the sun that brings out the playful side in people. However, one thing I learned this year (and it's probably because I'm getting older), is that my eczema dislikes hot temperature. The last few days my skin has flared up with hives and they seem to be dry all the time (no matter how much water I drink). Here's my usual ritual in fighting off eczema.
1. Cold Shower. My skin loves it when the temperature is cool. The itching normally stops once I'm bathed in cold water or put ice on my forehead.
2. Lotion. I never skip applying and lathering lotion everyday and every chance I get. It's something that I just have to do but, I don't mind ;) My usual go to body lotions are the regular w/ spf Eucerin & Lubriderm and for the face I use Neutrogena. I've used these lotions for years and they've been helpful with my dry skin.
For eczema flare ups, I would go with Eucerin Intensive Repair or Cetaphil. These are very thick lotions, trust me, you'll see the difference between the regular and the "intensive" ones. I highly suggest talking to your doctor first for suggestions.
3. Shake. You can never have enough shakes. I make my own at home and they're usually a mix of fruits and veggies. See recipes I've collected here https://www.pinterest.com/jtdezign/health/
4. Restrict sun exposure. Depending on how hot it is outside, I will usually sunbathe for an hour or two in combination with swimming in the ocean. Most of the time, it's hard for me to lay out in the sun for a long period of time. Part of it is personal and the other is my skin issues. Also, I will usually take claritin prior to the start of my outdoor activities.
5. Drink lots of water. We all need this! I bring a water bottle with me before heading out to the beach or pool. It's a must for my skin.
6. Wear light clothing. Ok, yeah I know what you're thinking, "We all wear light clothing during the summer because it's hot!" But, I want to point out that light and loose fabrics (such as the photo below) helps my skin breathe, as oppose to wearing something skin tight. Trust me, I've seen some peeps wear those on a hot day. It works for them but, not on my sensitive skin.
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