Don't let eczema flare-ups during the holidays ruin the most wonderful time of the year. December is full of common eczema triggers, but by knowing which ones and how to reduce their negative impact on eczema-prone skin, you can continue to fully enjoy the season. Do your eczema symptoms worsen during the winter months? Then pay close attention to the following points.
7 Common Eczema Triggers During the Holidays & How to Prevent Flare-ups
During the holidays, the following eczema triggers are extra common:
1. Christmas trees
Rosin (also called resin) is found in the sap of conifers such as pine, spruce, cedar, and juniper. This substance is known to cause contact dermatitis.
How to prevent an eczema reaction:
Avoid direct skin contact with the Christmas tree. Wear long sleeves and gloves when touching the tree. Have you ever had an allergic reaction to resin? Then consider an artificial Christmas tree. Make sure it's stored well-covered, as dust is a known eczema trigger.
2. Holiday stress
Buying gifts, changes to your daily routine, meal planning, grocery lists, and family obligations: the holidays can be quite stressful. Stress is a known trigger for eczema .
What helps:
While you can't completely avoid stress, you can reduce its impact by getting enough sleep, meditating, sticking to your routine, making time for relaxation, and sharing your feelings with someone you trust.
3. Winter Weather & Heating
Cold, dry air is a major cause of winter eczema. In winter, the air naturally contains less moisture, and indoor heating further reduces humidity.
How to protect your skin:
Cover your skin well when going outside and use a humidifier indoors to increase the humidity.
4. Scented candles
Pine or cinnamon-scented candles create ambiance, but perfume is a common cause of both allergic contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis. Reactions often occur on exposed skin such as the face, hands, and neck.
Tip:
Avoid artificial fragrances in candles, diffusers, and air fresheners to prevent eczema flare-ups.
5. Traveling During the Holidays
Whether you're staying with family or in a hotel, new environments are often full of eczema triggers. Think down pillows, perfumed detergent, dust mites, pet hair, and a different diet than you're used to.
Preparation is key:
Always bring your own creams and medications. Avoid using hotel toiletries and ask about the detergent used in the bed linens. For added peace of mind, bring your own sheets.
6. Christmas sweaters
That cute Christmas sweater could aggravate your eczema. Wool and synthetic fabrics like polyester often cause itching and skin irritation.
Better alternative:
Choose 100% cotton. Is that Christmas sweater really too cute to pass up? Then wear a long-sleeved cotton shirt underneath to protect your skin.
7. Cozy Fireplaces
Sitting by the fireplace seems wonderful, but it can aggravate eczema (and also allergies or asthma) due to air pollution. Wood smoke, particulate matter, and even mold in firewood can irritate a weakened skin barrier.
How to limit the damage:
Have your chimney cleaned regularly, make sure the damper is working properly and store firewood outside.
Celebrate the Holidays with Gladskin
Common eczema triggers during the holidays don't have to be a reason to miss out on the fun. With simple adjustments, like protecting your skin from the cold and wearing eczema-friendly clothing, you can fully enjoy the season.
Regular moisturizing is essential for healthy skin in winter. We recommend Gladskin Eczemact Cream – clinically proven effective in reducing eczema symptoms.
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Discover the science behind the world's first targeted eczema cream or take our skin quiz to get personalized skincare advice tailored to your concerns.
