Eczema in Winter: Expert care for your delicate skin

Healthcare

There’s a certain charm about winter in South Africa, thick socks, big jerseys, and the smell of soup bubbling on the stove. But if you or your child lives with eczema, you probably also know the not-so-charming side of the season which is itchy, dry skin that won’t stop acting up.

You moisturise, you try the bath oils, you even avoid getting too close to the heater, and still, the flare-ups come back. Sound familiar? You know that tight, itchy, dry skin feeling when the cold sets in? For people living with eczema, that feeling can turn into something much more uncomfortable. Let’s unpack what eczema really is, and why winter is often the worst time for flare-ups.

What is Eczema, Really?

Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to become inflamed, red, itchy, and cracked. It’s not contagious, but it’s deeply frustrating, especially when the scratching won’t stop and no moisturiser seems to work. People often describe it as a ‘dry rash that just won’t go away’, especially on places like the elbows, behind the knees, hands, and face.

Why Does Winter Make Eczema Worse?

The short answer is, cold air outside + dry indoor heat = a moisture-sucking combo! Here’s what’s actually happening:

The air is drier in winter, so it pulls moisture from your skin.
Hot showers (we’re all guilty!) strip the skin of its natural oils.
Heaters indoor lower humidity, drying the skin out even more.
More layers of clothing = more friction and irritation.

When It’s Your Little One Struggling

Eczema in babies and toddlers can be especially upsetting for parents. Their soft little cheeks and chubby folds often take the biggest hit. You’ll notice:

Red, patchy spots behind knees, elbows, on the face or scalp.
Constant rubbing or scratching (even in their sleep).
Cranky moods – because itching is exhausting.

Gentle Tips for Winter Eczema

Keep Baths Short & Lukewarm: Hot water strips natural oils. Stick to lukewarm baths under 10 minutes and skip the bubbles.
Moisturise Within 3 Minutes: Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturiser immediately after bathing to seal in moisture.
Choose Fragrance-Free Products: Avoid scented soaps, lotions, and detergents as they often trigger irritation.
Wear Skin-Friendly Fabrics: Layer with soft cotton. Avoid wool and scratchy materials directly on the skin.
Use a Humidifier Indoors: Heaters dry out the air. A humidifier helps restore moisture to your environment.
Keep Nails Short & Clean: Reduces the risk of skin damage and infection from scratching, especially at night.
Try Cool Compresses: A cool, damp cloth can calm inflammation and soothe the itch before moisturising.
Manage Stress Gently: Emotional stress can trigger flare-ups. Prioritise calm routines and quality rest.

When to See a Dermatologist

The skin becomes infected (yellow crusting, oozing).
Over-the-counter creams aren’t helping.
It’s affecting sleep, mood, or school for kids.
The flare-ups are becoming frequent or more severe.

Dermatologists can assess whether it’s really eczema, or something else (like psoriasis, allergies, or fungal conditions), and offer prescription treatments that can calm the skin properly.

Ringpharm is Here to Help

Need advice on what to try? Chat to one of our friendly pharmacists in-store, we know which products our local community swears by. And if it’s something more serious, we’ll point you in the right direction to get the care you need.

Living with eczema, especially in winter, can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding your triggers, choosing the right products, and knowing when to seek expert help can make a world of difference. Whether you’re managing your own flare-ups or caring for a little one’s sensitive skin, you’re not alone.

This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalised health guidance, consult with your healthcare provider or visit your local Ringpharm pharmacy.