What are the reasons for eczema worsening during seasonal changes?

Nov 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, worsening eczema during seasonal changes may be caused by dry climate, exposure to allergens, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, or immune system disorders. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, moisturize the skin before seasonal transitions, identify and avoid allergens, and wear loose-fitting cotton clothing.

In general, eczema may worsen during seasonal transitions due to factors such as dry climate, exposure to allergens, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, or immune system disorders. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Dry Climate

During seasonal changes, decreased air humidity accelerates skin moisture loss and compromises the skin’s barrier function, making eczema more likely to flare up. Use a humidifier indoors, apply petroleum jelly-based moisturizers daily, reduce bathing frequency, and keep water temperature below 38°C.

2. Exposure to Allergens

Seasonal transitions often bring increased levels of allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and mold. Contact with these substances can trigger immune responses that exacerbate eczema. Wear a mask when outdoors, wash your face and change clothes immediately after returning home, change bed sheets and pillowcases regularly, and avoid keeping pets.

3. Atopic Dermatitis

This condition, often hereditary, results in a weakened skin barrier, making individuals more susceptible to inflammation triggered by environmental changes during seasonal shifts, leading to recurrent eczema. Follow medical advice to use medications such as desonide cream, tacrolimus ointment, and cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, and avoid spicy or irritating foods.

4. Contact Dermatitis

Changing clothing materials or skincare products during seasonal transitions may expose the skin to irritating chemicals, triggering contact dermatitis and worsening eczema. Discontinue use of suspected irritants immediately and follow doctor's instructions to use calamine lotion, hydrocortisone butyrate cream, or loratadine syrup.

5. Immune System Dysregulation

Seasonal changes can cause fluctuations in immune function, leading to abnormal activation of immune cells that attack skin tissues, thereby aggravating eczema. Under medical supervision, treatments such as cyclosporine soft capsules, methylprednisolone tablets, or pimecrolimus cream may be used. Maintain regular sleep patterns and avoid excessive fatigue.

In daily life, take preventive measures before seasonal changes: maintain skin hydration; identify and avoid allergens; wear loose-fitting cotton clothing; follow a light diet avoiding seafood and other trigger foods; manage stress, and strengthen the body's immunity to reduce eczema flare-ups.