Fall is officially here, and a lot of people are looking forward to dramatic color changes and cooler night air. But if you have psoriasis or eczema, the transition can be tricky. Fall is a notoriously tough time of year for skin disorders, but don’t lose hope: some simple lifestyle changes may help you avoid an outbreak as the seasons change.
It’ll come as no surprise that moisturizing is the number one line of defense against the dry air of fall and winter—but make sure you choose wisely. Try to avoid moisturizers that are too light, since these products don’t usually contain enough emollients to affect thicker skin. And this time of year, it’s especially important to reapply after washing to retain moisture.
It’s also a good idea to be conservative with your showers and baths. A quick soak in a warm (not hot) bath with a bit of sea salt or oatmeal can help alleviate symptoms you already have, but use caution—too much washing will actually sap moisture and important oils from your skin.
As fall moves forward, the holiday season comes closer. Eating healthy might be a long shot over the next couple of months, but a lot of people find that their skin fares worse when their diet is poor. Make a positive impact on your immune system by working toward a healthy lifestyle—eating good food is a great way to ensure that you’re getting the nutrients you need. Cutting back on the alcohol might be smart too—especially dense, rich beers, which appear to make some peoples’ flare-ups more severe.
It’s important to remember that what works for some doesn’t always work for everyone—each person has their own unique regimen. Trial and error is the best way to determine if something will give you relief, but if your symptoms get out of hand, it’s probably time to see a doctor. There’s no substitute for professional medical advice, but we hope these suggestions help. Happy fall!