Eczema and Sweat: Connection, Causes, and Remedies
Managing Sweat and Eczema: Strategies for Comfort and Skin Health
Individuals with atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common type of eczema, may experience unique challenges when it comes to managing sweat and its potential impact on their skin condition. A recent study reveals that people with AD have significantly lower levels of certain substances in their sweat, which can lead to less natural moisturizing and antimicrobial properties [1]. This, in turn, can cause dry skin, increased itching, and increased susceptibility to infections.
To combat these challenges, a combination of preventive skin care, clothing choices, hydration, and careful handling of triggers during exercise, hot weather, and dietary habits are essential.
Exercise and Hot Weather
For those with eczema, maintaining a daily skincare routine is crucial. Moisturizing the skin before and after physical activity can help maintain the skin barrier and prevent dryness-triggered eczema flares. Wearing loose, moisture-wicking, breathable clothing, preferably soft fabrics like cotton, can reduce friction and sweat retention [4].
Taking frequent breaks to stay hydrated and using cooling measures such as cool towels or misting sprays can help keep skin moist and cool during exercise. Changing out of wet or sweaty clothes promptly and showering with lukewarm water after physical activity can remove sweat that can irritate the skin [4].
Planning activities during cooler times of day or choosing sports with less heat exposure can also help reduce sweating triggers.
Diet and Lifestyle
Avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can help reduce sweating episodes. Managing stress through meditation or mindfulness may help limit sweat flare-ups [4]. Keeping a sweat diary to identify and avoid personal sweating triggers can also be beneficial [2].
Using fragrance-free, moisturizing deodorants and antiperspirants that do not irritate eczema-prone skin is essential. Ingredients like shea butter can be beneficial, while fragrances and harsh chemicals should be avoided [2]. Maintaining good hygiene with gentle cleansing can prevent bacterial imbalance or infections that worsen eczema odor and symptoms [2][3].
Additional Tips
Showering once daily with warm or lukewarm water can help avoid further drying of the skin. Consulting healthcare providers about eczema treatments and infections is crucial, as skin infections can develop under eczema and lead to odor or worsening symptoms [3][5]. Stress management practices can also help reduce eczema exacerbations [3][5].
A recent study suggests a link between AD and an allergic reaction to the Malassezia antigen, a yeast found on the skin. Sweating may aggravate symptoms of this allergy [1]. Additionally, a buildup of chemicals in sweat, such as urea, lactate, and minerals, can trigger eczema in some individuals, particularly in the sweatiest areas of the skin [1].
By following these strategies, individuals with eczema can better control sweat-related irritation and eczema flares, enabling safer exercise and comfort in hot weather while supporting skin health through mindful diet and skincare choices.
[1] National Eczema Association (NEA) [2] American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) [3] Mayo Clinic [4] British Skin Foundation [5] Eczema Society of Canada (ESC)
- In individuals with eczema, a daily skincare routine is vital for managing sweat and its potential impact on skin health.
- Moisturizing the skin before and after physical activity can help maintain the skin barrier and prevent dryness-triggered eczema flares.
- Wearing loose, moisture-wicking, breathable clothing made from soft fabrics like cotton can help reduce friction and sweat retention.
- Taking frequent breaks to stay hydrated and using cooling measures such as cool towels or misting sprays can help keep skin moist and cool during exercise.
- Changing out of wet or sweaty clothes promptly and showering with lukewarm water after physical activity can remove sweat that can irritate the skin.
- Planning activities during cooler times of day or choosing sports with less heat exposure can help reduce sweating triggers.
- Avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can help reduce sweating episodes for those with eczema.
- Managing stress through meditation or mindfulness may help limit sweat flare-ups.
- Keeping a sweat diary to identify and avoid personal sweating triggers can also be beneficial.
- Using fragrance-free, moisturizing deodorants and antiperspirants that do not irritate eczema-prone skin is essential.
- Ingredients like shea butter can be beneficial, while fragrances and harsh chemicals should be avoided.
- Maintaining good hygiene with gentle cleansing can prevent bacterial imbalance or infections that worsen eczema odor and symptoms.
- Showering once daily with warm or lukewarm water can help avoid further drying of the skin for those with eczema.
- Consulting healthcare providers about eczema treatments and infections is crucial, as skin infections can develop under eczema and lead to odor or worsening symptoms.
- A recent study suggests a link between atopic dermatitis (AD) and an allergic reaction to the Malassezia antigen, a yeast found on the skin, and sweating may aggravate symptoms of this allergy.
