It's getting to that time when we all start dreaming of summer days where we can feel the warmth of the sun and salt on our skin. But for some, this dream is complicated. For those who suffer from skin conditions, such as Eczema or Rosacea, higher temperatures may trigger flare-ups. We hope these skincare tips can help you enjoy your time outdoors.
So how can you still enjoy time in the sun when you have an easily irritated skin condition?
1. Know what triggers your Rosacea or Eczema.
The exact cause of Rosacea and Eczema is still unknown and to date, there is no cure for either skin condition. Triggers differ from person to person, so if you’re not yet sure of what causes your skin’s eczema or rosacea, we recommend starting a two-week diary. Write down what’s changing from day to day (and how your skin reacts) based on your surroundings.
Both conditions can be triggered by many different factors including foods, alcohol, physical exertion, stress and weather conditions. Understanding what triggers your skin is the first step in finding a product that will work for you.
2. Patch test your sunscreen before application.
One of the biggest tips for eczema and rosacea skincare is patch testing products before use.
There are a number of ingredients in sunscreen that can cause your skin to sting, burn or itch and trigger your rosacea or eczema. These reactions can be caused by a variety of ingredients including UV filters (mineral & chemical), certain preservatives, fragrances and/or common cosmetic natural ingredients like Vitamin E, Aloe Vera and Beeswax.
So, we recommend using gentle, fragrance-free skincare products. However, it is extremely important you always do a patch test before applying your sunscreen (or any skin-related products) especially when it comes to your face.
We also highly recommend you try and avoid the sun during the middle of the day, typically 10am-4pm when the temperature is at its highest. Morning and afternoon sun is definitely more friendly.
3. Look after your skin in the sun (especially during a flare-up).
“It is really important that Rosacea & Eczema sufferers wear sunscreen during a flare-up!” - Dr. Scott McGregor
The dryer your skin, the itchier and more inflamed it will become. If you find yourself exposed to the sun during a flare-up, covering up with sunscreen is a must as leaving the skin bare may cause further symptoms, drying and discomfort. We recommend using a good moisture-based, broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB), with a SPF rating of at least 30+. Our Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 50+ is designed to be gentle and nourishing for those with delicate skin. It’s also a good idea to try to rinse off with fresh water after swimming in the ocean, this can help to cool your skin and stop any further aggravation potentially caused by the salty water.
And of course, we also suggest you invest in a nice comfortable wide brim hat and protective clothing (as the saying goes…slip, slop, slap).
Eczema & rosacea skin care is important to us. Please feel free to contact us via email info@wearefeelgoodinc.com.au with any further questions or concerns.
