It’s not uncommon for eczema to flare in January. Right after the holidays—post heavy meals and extra sugar that can deplete the microbiome—and the air is cold and dry. It’s the perfect storm to wreak havoc on our skin. Winter skin hydration and maintaining a healthy skin barrier are more important than ever to prevent a winter eczema flare.
A great way to keep the skin hydrated and protected during the harsh winter months is through a two-part approach: working from the inside-out, and the outside-in.
Prevent a Winter Eczema Flare From the Inside-Out: Keep Your Cells Hydrated
The key to cellular hydration? Healthy cell walls.
Healthy cell walls help retain moisture, keeping the skin hydrated even in the driest conditions. A healthy cell wall is made up of essential fats, including omega-3 fats and the lesser-known phospholipids (such as phosphatidylcholine).
Both Omega-3 fatty acids and phosphatidylcholine (PPC) support healthy cell membranes, and therefore overall cellular health.
- HKHM Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids allow cells to take in important nutrients, remove waste, and activate signaling to neighboring cells. Omega 3-fats are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
- PPC: There’s a reason we call this “liquid gold” in our practice. PPC makes up about 80% of the membranes surrounding every cell.
From the Outside-In: Simple, Effective Topicals
Protect the skin barrier with this easy, eczema-friendly skin care routine.
To lock in hydration and soothe sensitive skin, I recommend the combination of Briotech Topical Skin Spray and YoRo Naturals Manuka Balm.
- Briotech Topical Skin Spray: Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl), found in this spray, is an all-natural, highly-effective, electrically-charged signaling solution that mimics the essence of your body’s natural defense system.
- Plus it’s vegan, organic, and free of alcohol, oil, and additives!
- Manuka Skin Balm: This non-greasy, emollient-rich balm hydrates even the driest skin and provides relief for mild to moderate eczema or chronically dry skin.
- This newly reformulated balm (previously a cream) has some amazing enhacements you can read about here.
By addressing skin health from the inside-out AND the outside-in, you can prevent dryness and irritation before it starts. Remember, prevention is the best medicine!).
