Key To Eczema In Winter

DRY and sore skin in winter is often blamed on the long months of cold, blustery weather. But new research shows eczema and the increase in dry skin symptoms is linked instead to hormones.
Dermatologist Dr Michael Cork found increased glucocorticoid levels in winter (often twice as much as in summer) have been shown to damage the skin barrier, leading to eczema and other painful skin conditions.
His findings will have a big impact in Scotland where dry skin is a common problem. A survey of Scots by skin specialists found:
44 per cent have continuous dry skin.
One in 10 suffers from eczema.
61 per cent of dry skin sufferers developed their condition during adulthood.
75 per cent say their skin gets worse over the winter months.
To minimise discomfort, Dr Cork recommends adult sufferers:
Use an intensive emollient therapy that helps to replace parts of the skin barrier.
Ensure all carpets, fabrics and curtains are kept dust free.
Avoid synthetic materials and wool blends.
Use artificial light to combat depression and lower levels of glucocorticoid hormones.