What should you know about eczema from heat?

Warm conditions may leave sweat and salt on the skin. Clothing or skin folds can then rub against already sensitive areas, leading to itch, redness, dryness or small cracks. Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition, and a flare after hot weather does not necessarily mean that heat caused the underlying condition. Atopic dermatitis can be associated with itchy skin and dry skin; darker marks may remain after inflammation settles, known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Move to a cooler space, rinse sweat away with lukewarm water, and pat rather than rub. Apply a fragrance-free moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp. Choose loose, breathable clothing and change out of damp garments. Avoid fragranced products, harsh scrubbing and very hot showers. Keep nails short to limit damage from scratching, especially if itching is worse at night. A clinician can advise whether a prescribed anti-inflammatory treatment is appropriate for the affected area.

Arrange medical advice when a flare keeps returning, affects sleep, spreads, or does not settle with gentle skin care. Seek prompt assessment for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, open cracks or crusting, because these features can signal infection. Urgent care is appropriate for rapidly worsening symptoms or involvement around the eyes.

Ask which moisturiser texture suits your skin, whether a heat-triggered rash is eczema or another condition, and how to use prescribed treatment safely on each body area.