My Essential Routine for Winter Eczema Relief

For the first time in over 10 years, I reacted peanut cross-contamination. There was no warning label on the family-owned farm's chocolate chip cookies, but when I started reacting, I noticed they smelled like peanut butter. Instantly, I became lightheaded and cautious, and later vomited. This moment shifted my awareness of my health, similar to how eczema can demand constant attention when it becomes way more than “just a rash”, but rather an everyday factor of life.

Finally Finding Wintertime Relief

Having struggled with eczema since infancy, I didn’t pay much attention until it affected visible areas I couldn’t hide or soothe. The most alarming place is always my face, which always makes me panic. Thankfully, this past winter, I found relief from dry skin with some long-lasting remedies, giving me hope that I could finally experience a winter without constant flaking for the first time in years.

No Longer Changing My Climate for Eczema

In 2022, I moved to South Florida hoping the heat would help my eczema, but it didn’t. Extreme temperatures, whether cold or hot, only aggravated my skin. So, I moved to a milder climate, where my skin began to improve over time, but I still didn’t have real solutions. Eventually, I returned to the northeast, where dry winter air triggers my eczema, but this time, I focused on deep moisture.

Five Ways I Help My Facial Eczema

• Filtered Water: I never wash my face with unfiltered water. A water filter for my shower has been a game-changer.
• Facial Steamer: Before washing my face in the winter, I use a facial steamer or hot steam from a pot to open my pores, then apply facial oil to lock in moisture.
• Moisturizing Oils: Consistent moisturizing with oils is key for me. I always skip using soap when my skin is dry.
• Humidifier: Sleeping with a humidifier helps keep the air from drying out my skin.
• Epsom Salt Baths: Epsom salt baths are my go-to for lasting hydration, especially during the wintertime.

These steps need to be done consistently to see results, but after a week, I usually notice a difference and don’t have to do every step moving forward. Have you tried any of these tips for dry skin, particularly in winter? If not, give them a try and let me know how they work for you!