Is climate change affecting eczema?
According to recent research, it is—but it depends on where you live.
In this post, we take a look at the impact climate change may be having on your symptoms, and what you can do to make your skin look and feel more comfortable.
Climate Change is Affecting Eczema: What the Research Shows
Scientists published a new review in June 2024. They looked at 18 studies examining the impact of climate hazards and atopic dermatitis (AD), another name for eczema.
They found that most climatic hazards had evidence for aggravating the symptoms of AD, with the impacts varying from direct to indirect effects.
For example, an increase in wildfires in some regions could make symptoms worse in those triggered by the presence of particulate matter in the air. That was a direct effect. Then there were indirect effects, such as drought-induced food insecurity and migration.
Jessica Johnson, MPH, director of community research and engagement at the National Eczema Association, noted that the majority of climatic hazards linked to greenhouse emissions “have a negative impact on AD prevalence, severity, and AD healthcare utilization.
She added that the impact of climate change on AD is “impacted by geographic region and climate,” with precipitation shown to increase the risk of AD in children in the U.S. Studies in other geographical regions, however, showed that precipitation was associated with increased AD symptoms only when daily rainfall was below a certain threshold.
The scientists also created maps showing how climatic hazards were affecting eczema in certain geographical areas, plotting cumulative exposure in 2005 and 2017, as well as predictions for 2053. The maps from 2005 and 2017 showed an overlap between those areas with more exposure to climatic hazards and an increased prevalence of atopic dermatitis. The 2053 maps were used to indicate those areas that may be most impacted in the future.
Ultimately, the scientists noted that they needed more data, particularly from those regions most likely to experience more climatic hazards.
Other Studies Support the Idea of Climate Change Affecting Eczema
This isn’t the only study to look at this issue. Scientists reported in 2021 that eczema is an “environmental disease,” noting that climate change “alters the allergenicity of pollen, which increases atopic eczema symptoms in some patients during the pollen season.”
Some eczema sufferers know that pollen triggers them, and plants tend to produce more pollen in warmer temperatures. Climate change-related temperature increases can raise pollen levels, which may worsen symptoms.
Researchers also reported in 2023 that both cold and warm temperatures can affect itch, skin flares, skin barrier dysfunction, and the development of AD.
Harvard Health reported in the summer of 2024 that wildfires in Quebec and the resulting thick haze over Boston, Massachusetts increased eczema and dermatitis flares in patients. When scientists looked into it, they found a notable rise and atypical summer peak in carbon monoxide levels in the Boston region while the fires were going on, and that correlated with a spike in AD, dermatitis, and eczema-related dermatology clinic visits.
Air pollution, exacerbated by wildfires, can damage the skin through the smoke and chemicals used to extinguish fires. These can trigger inflammation in the skin, which leads to itch, rash, dryness, and flare-ups.
The Connection Between Climate Change and Eczema
In general, climate change can affect eczema in three main ways:
Increased Allergens
As the planet warms, the pollen season lengthens and becomes more intense. That means more allergens are floating around, which can trigger eczema flare-ups. Climate change also affects mold and dust mites, which can also cause symptoms.
Extreme Weather Events
Heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and humidity are becoming more frequent due to climate change. Extreme heat can dry out your skin and exacerbate itchiness, while high humidity can lead to excessive sweating, which is another eczema trigger.
Air Pollution
Air quality declines as pollutants increase. Ozone and particulate matter irritate the skin and can make eczema symptoms worse.
Climate Change Affecting Eczema: Managing Your Symptoms
Being aware of what the weather is doing in your area can help you take precautions to increase your skin’s resistance and reduce your symptoms. Here are some practical tips to help keep your eczema in check.
Stay Moisturized
One of the best ways to combat eczema is to keep your skin well-moisturized. In dry, hot weather, our skin can lose moisture quickly. Use a thick, emollient moisturizer daily, and always apply it right after bathing to lock in moisture.
Look for products that are fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin, like our Calming Moisture and Body Repair Lotion. Both are designed to help protect the outer barrier while providing deeply nourishing moisture.
Choose Your Skincare Products Wisely
Opt for gentle, hypoallergenic products. Avoid soaps and cleansers with harsh chemicals as they can strip your skin of its natural oils, further drying it out. Avoid alcohol-based toners, as well, as they are also drying and can make your symptoms worse.
We recommend using our Rescue + Relief Spray as a toner and an anytime refresher. It’s cooling, calming, and hydrating, and helps sustain skin moisture throughout the day. It also helps prepare the skin for moisturizer, balancing pH levels and taming inflammation.
Control Allergens
To tackle the increased allergens, keep your environment as allergy-free as possible. Regularly clean your home to reduce dust and mold. Use HEPA filters in your air purifiers and consider keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons. Wash bedding and pillowcases frequently in hot water to help reduce dust mites. Use a humidifier in your bedroom if you live in a dry climate.
Stay Cool and Hydrated
Since heat and humidity can trigger eczema symptoms, stay cool and dry. Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and avoid overheating. Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which helps maintain your skin’s moisture balance.
Manage Stress
Climate change can be a source of stress, and stress is a known trigger for eczema flare-ups. Find ways to manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, journaling, and meditation. Find activities you enjoy that help you shed stress daily.
Monitor Your Environment
If air pollution is a concern in your area, limit your time outside during high pollution periods. Check local air quality reports and stay indoors on days when pollution levels are high. Using a high-quality air purifier indoors can also help reduce exposure to pollutants. House plants, as well, help clean indoor air as long as you keep them well-tended and prevent mold.
Have you noticed that climate change affects your eczema?
Featured image by RDNE Stock project via Pexels.
