What Summer Humidity and Heat Does to Eczema (and Why)

Australia summer is supposed to feel carefree, but if you have eczema like me, humidity can make our skin feel like it’s waging war. The constant sticky heat, the sweating, the irritation... it all adds up, and suddenly our “hot girl walk” becomes a “hot itchy walk.” But, there is a science behind it, and once you understand what humidity and heat does to eczema, managing flare-ups becomes a lot easier.

Image 1. Kakadu National Park Guide: Rock Art, Waterfalls & Seasons From Pathfinder Travels (https://pathfinders-travel.com/kakadu-national-park-guide/)

Humidity increases the moisture level in the air. For some eczema prone people, its useful but for others it  actually disrupts the skin barrier. When your skin is already compromised, the combination of sweating and trapped heat can trigger inflammation. Sweat contains salt, which stings broken skin and can cause redness, burning, and irresistible itchiness. Add in friction from clothing, and your skin becomes overloaded.

Image 2. From Brite Touch Cleaners (https://britetouchcleaners.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/workout-clothes-blog.jpg)

Another overlooked factor is the growth of bacteria and yeast in humid conditions. Warm, moist environments create a perfect breeding ground on the skin’s surface, especially in folds like elbows, underarms, and behind knees. This microbial imbalance can make flares worse or longer-lasting.

The key to surviving summer humidity is prevention. Think lightweight, fragrance-free moisturisers, showering right after sweating, wearing breathable fabrics like cotton, and avoiding heavy occlusive products that trap heat. Humidity might be unavoidable, but with the right routine, you can still enjoy summer without hiding in an air-conditioned bubble.

Until next time,

My

Best Products to Eliminate Eczema Smell | Tips to Manage Oozing and Odor

 

✅ Tips to Help with Eczema Smell (Oozing/Weeping Eczema):

1. Cleanse gently but thoroughly:
   Use a fragrance-free antiseptic wash (like Dermaveen Antibacterial Wash or QV Gentle Wash with chlorhexidine) once or twice daily to reduce bacteria and smell.

2. Apply zinc-based creams or pastes:
   Zinc oxide or zinc pyrithione helps dry out weeping lesions, reduce inflammation, and neutralize odor. Look for Sudocrem, Desitin, or Dermaid zinc creams.

3. Use absorbent, breathable dressings:
   Non-stick dressings like Mepilex, Hydrocolloid, or cotton gauze help absorb ooze and protect the skin. Change them frequently to prevent odor build-up.

4. Try a salt bath or diluted bleach bath (as recommended):
   These can reduce bacteria on the skin. Use 1/4 cup of bleach in a full bath, or 1–2 cups of Epsom or Dead Sea salt for a soothing, cleansing soak.

5. Keep the area dry and cool:
   Odor worsens in warm, sweaty areas. Wear breathable cotton clothes and pat the area dry—don’t rub.

6. Hydrate and heal with moisturizers:
   Use eczema-safe barrier creams like Ego QV Intensive, La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm, or CeraVe Healing Ointment after cleaning.

7. Check for infection:
   If the smell is strong, fishy, or worsening, it may be a sign of staph infection. See a doctor for potential topical or oral antibiotics.

 

What I Wear When My Skin Is Sensitive: Eczema-Friendly Clothing Tips That Changed Everything

If you live with eczema or sensitive skin, you know the struggle of getting dressed on a flare-up day. What should be a simple task, choosing an outfit, suddenly becomes frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful.

I’ve been there. I’ve cried while pulling on scratchy jeans or felt defeated when nothing in my wardrobe felt safe for my skin. But over time, I’ve found pieces and fabrics that don’t just feel good, they help my skin breathe, calm down, and heal.

In this post, I’ll share my personal eczema-safe clothing tips, the fabrics I trust, and what I wear when my skin needs extra love.

1. Loose Cotton Tees Are My Everyday Go-To

Cotton is soft, breathable, and non-irritating. I love oversized, 100% cotton t-shirts, especially during flare-ups. The loose fit helps avoid friction, and natural fibers let my skin breathe.

Tip: Look for organic cotton if you can, it’s often gentler because it's processed with fewer chemicals.

2. Elastic-Free or Seamless Bottoms = Relief

Waistbands, seams, and tight fits can be a nightmare when you're itchy or raw. I choose:

- Bamboo lounge pants

- Seamless leggings

- High-waisted joggers with soft, covered elastic

Avoid scratchy synthetics and stiff denim. Even your comfiest jeans can turn into sandpaper when your eczema flares.

3. Sleepwear Matters More Than You Think

Nighttime is when your skin heals, and you don’t want clothing to get in the way. I love:

- Oversized silk or modal pajamas

- Long cotton nightgowns

- No tags, no tight cuffs, no synthetic lace

Bonus: Use fragrance-free detergent and skip fabric softeners. These can trigger flare-ups too.

4. Laundry Tips for Eczema-Safe Clothes

Clothes can be made from gentle fabrics, but still irritate your skin if washed with harsh chemicals. Here's what I use:

- Fragrance-free laundry detergent (like Ecostore or Seventh Generation)

- No fabric softener (a sneaky eczema trigger)

- Double rinse if you’re super sensitive

5. My Rule of Thumb: If It Feels Irritating...It Is

You know your skin better than anyone. If something makes you feel itchy, hot, or "off," don’t push through it. I’ve had to let go of some “cute” outfits that just didn’t love me back, and that’s okay. Because comfort > fashion, always. And honestly? You can be both comfortable and cute with the right choices.

💬 Let’s Talk!

Do you have go-to eczema-safe clothing? Have you ever found a hidden gem brand that makes your skin happy?

Leave a comment and share what’s helped you feel good in your skin. You’re not alone, and your tips might help someone else who’s struggling right now. 🤍

 

Eczema and Makeup: Yes, You Can Have the Best of Both Worlds

Makeup is a form of self-expression, confidence, and creativity—but for those living with eczema, it can also feel like a battleground. The flaking, redness, sensitivity, and constant fear of triggering a flare-up can make even the most passionate beauty lover feel discouraged. But here's the truth: you can have eczema and wear makeup. It just takes a little more care, strategy, and skin-loving wisdom.

Let’s break down the challenges and how to overcome them—so you can enjoy both glowing skin and your favorite glam.

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The Challenges of Wearing Makeup with Eczema

1. Skin Sensitivity & Allergies
Eczema-prone skin often reacts to common makeup ingredients like fragrances, alcohols, or preservatives. Even some “natural” products can cause irritation if they contain essential oils or citrus extracts.

2. Flaking & Texture
Dry patches can cause makeup to cling unevenly, making foundation look cakey and rough. Trying to cover these areas can sometimes make them more noticeable.

3. Redness & Inflammation
Eczema flares often include redness and swelling that make you want to reach for full coverage products. But layering on heavy makeup can further irritate your skin and create a vicious cycle.

4. Emotional Toll
Not feeling “put together” because of eczema can affect your self-esteem. The struggle between wanting coverage and avoiding a flare-up is real.

How to Wear Makeup with Eczema, Flare-Free and Fabulous

1. Prioritize Skincare First
Your makeup will only look as good as the canvas underneath. Focus on healing your skin before covering it. Use fragrance-free, hydrating products like:

• Gentle cleansers (e.g., Cetaphil, La Roche-Posay Toleriane)

• Barrier-repair moisturizers (e.g., CeraVe, Vanicream)

• Prescription creams or hydrocortisone for flare-ups (consult your dermatologist)

Let skincare soak in fully before applying any makeup.

2. Choose Eczema-Safe Makeup Products
Go for non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free labels. Look for products tested on sensitive skin.

Foundation tips:

• Choose a lightweight liquid or tinted moisturizer over thick matte foundations.

• Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, colloidal oatmeal, or niacinamide.

• Avoid powders as they tend to dry the skin out more.

Concealer tips:

• Use creamy, hydrating concealers with minimal ingredients.

• Apply with fingers or a damp sponge to avoid tugging.

Other makeup must-haves:

• Cream blushes and highlighters (powders can emphasize texture.)

• Simple mascaras and eyeliners (avoid waterproof formulas unless your skin can tolerate them.)

3. Apply with Clean Tools and a Gentle Touch
Always use clean brushes and sponges to avoid introducing bacteria to vulnerable skin. Apply using light dabbing motions rather than rubbing or dragging.

4. Listen to Your Skin
If your skin feels irritated or starts to flare mid-application, stop. No makeup is worth a setback in your healing. Use these moments to focus on skincare or go makeup-free with pride, you’re still radiant!

5. Removal Matters
Removing makeup gently is just as important as applying it. Use micellar water or a sensitive-skin cleansing balm and avoid wipes or harsh scrubbing. Follow up with your regular eczema skincare routine.

Final Thoughts: Makeup is a Tool, Not a Mask

Makeup doesn’t have to be all or nothing. It can enhance your features, boost your confidence, and be part of your routine—even with eczema. The key is being informed, patient, and gentle with your skin.

Eczema is part of you, but it doesn’t define you. And if rocking a bold lip or dewy skin brings you joy, then yes—you absolutely can.

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Share this with someone who needs the reminder: Makeup + Eczema = Possible

5 Things to Do When Your Eczema Flares Up

Living with eczema means dealing with the occasional flare-up. Those moments when your skin suddenly becomes itchy, inflamed, dry, or even painful. While it can be frustrating, there are simple, calming steps you can take to soothe your skin and support its healing. Stay tuned till the end for a free tracker template! Anyhow, here are five effective things you can do when your eczema flares up:

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1. Apply an Ice Pack

Cold therapy can be incredibly soothing for itchy, inflamed skin. An ice pack (or even a clean bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel) helps reduce inflammation and numbs the area, giving you quick relief from that intense itch or burning sensation.

Tip: Don’t apply ice directly to your skin, always wrap it in a cloth to avoid damage.

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2. Take a Cold Shower

Hot showers might feel relaxing in the moment, but they can strip your skin of natural oils and worsen a flare. A cool or lukewarm shower is much gentler and can calm irritated skin almost immediately.

Bonus: Keep it short (5–10 minutes) and avoid harsh soaps. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser if needed.

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3. Moisturise Immediately After Showering

After patting your skin dry, lock in moisture right away with a rich, eczema-friendly moisturiser or ointment. This helps repair the skin barrier, reduce dryness, and prevent further irritation.

Look for: Products with ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, or petrolatum. Avoid anything with fragrance or alcohol.

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4. Stay Hydrated from the Inside Out

Water is your skin’s best friend. When you’re well-hydrated, your skin is better equipped to heal and stay resilient. During a flare, make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day.

Helpful habit: Carry a reusable water bottle with you to remind yourself to sip regularly.

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5. Avoid Known Triggers

Whether it’s a certain detergent, fabric, food, or stress. Knowing your eczema triggers can make a big difference. During a flare, avoid anything you know tends to make your skin worse.

Tip: Keep a journal to track what might have contributed to the flare, this helps with long-term management. I have a free template on my kofi you can download!

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Final Thoughts

Eczema flare-ups can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools and habits, you can soothe your skin and support faster recovery. The key is staying gentle, consistent, and mindful of what your body needs.

If you would be interested in a tracker template, here’s one I made where you can download it on Ko-fi for free: https://ko-fi.com/s/18fd62f53e

Your skin is healing and you're doing a great job taking care of it.

Until next time,

My

The Untethered Soul - The book to ease your mind

In a world that never stops moving, finding peace within can feel like an impossible task. Between overthinking, emotional rollercoasters, and the pressure to "have it all figured out," our minds can become noisy and cluttered. But what if there was a way to step back and simply observe the chaos without getting caught up in it?

This is the gift Michael A. Singer offers in his transformational book, "The Untethered Soul." It’s not just another self-help book, it’s a spiritual guide that invites you to reconnect with the stillness inside you, beyond the noise of thoughts and emotions.

Why This Book Eases the Mind

1. It teaches you to observe, not absorb.
One of the most powerful messages in The Untethered Soul is this: You are not your thoughts. You are the one who notices them. Singer calls this part of you "the inner witness." By learning to sit in that space of awareness, you begin to detach from the mental chatter and find calmness, even in the middle of anxiety or stress.

2. It gives emotions a healthy exit.
We tend to either repress our emotions or become overwhelmed by them. This book teaches you to allow emotions to pass through you, like a breeze through an open window. You don’t have to block them or hold on. Just let them come, and let them go.

3. It simplifies spirituality.
Whether or not you consider yourself spiritual, Singer’s writing feels universal. There are no complicated rituals, no heavy doctrine, just deep truths told with clarity. It’s less about "fixing" yourself and more about freeing yourself.

4. It’s not preachy...it’s peaceful.
Some personal growth books can feel like they’re shouting at you to change your life. This one gently reminds you that you’re already enough. The only thing getting in your way is your resistance to letting go.

Favorite Quotes That Soothe the Soul

There is nothing more important to true growth than realizing that you are not the voice of the mind, you are the one who hears it.

The only thing you have to know is that you must want to be free. You must want to be free more than you want to hold on.

Let go. That’s all you have to do. Just let go.

Final Thoughts

The Untethered Soul isn’t a book you race through. It’s one you sit with. Read a chapter, close your eyes, and breathe. Let the words sink in. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to find peace, clarity, and emotional freedom. Whether you’re new to inner work or deep into your healing journey, this book offers a gentle but powerful invitation: let go, and come home to yourself.

If your mind has been heavy lately, give this book a try. It might just be the ease your soul’s been waiting for.

Until next time,

My

4 Soothing Baths That Can Help with Eczema Flare-Ups

 

Living with eczema means constantly looking for ways to soothe the itch, calm the inflammation, and protect your skin barrier. While moisturisers and medications are important, certain types of baths can offer much-needed relief if done correctly and safely. Here are four types of eczema-friendly baths you might find helpful, along with pro tips to make the most of them.

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1. Bleach Bath

Why:
A diluted bleach bath can help reduce the bacteria on your skin that often trigger or worsen eczema flare-ups. It’s especially useful in more severe cases with a high risk of infection.

How to do it:

• Add ½ cup of plain, unscented bleach (like Clorox) to a full bathtub of water (about 150 litres).

• Soak for no more than 10 minutes.

• Rinse your body with fresh, clean water afterward.

• Moisturise immediately.

⚠️ Important: Always consult your doctor before trying a bleach bath. It’s not suitable for everyone and must be done with medical guidance.

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2. Oatmeal Bath

Why:
Colloidal oatmeal is known for its soothing properties — it helps calm itching, reduce inflammation, and ease dryness.

How to do it:

• Add 1 cup of colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oats) to lukewarm water.

• Soak for 10–15 minutes.

• Gently pat yourself dry with a towel.

• Apply moisturiser while your skin is still slightly damp.

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3. Salt Bath

Why:
Epsom or Dead Sea salts may help reduce inflammation and support the skin barrier. Many people with eczema find these baths can ease discomfort, especially during flare-ups.

How to do it:

• Add ¼ to ½ cup of Epsom or Dead Sea salt to a warm bath.

• Avoid using salt baths on open or cracked skin as it may sting.

• Moisturise right after soaking.

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4. Herbal Tea Bath (Chamomile or Green Tea)

Why:
Chamomile has calming properties, while green tea is anti-inflammatory. Both can be gentle options for people with sensitive or irritated skin.

How to do it:

• Brew a few tea bags in hot water.

• Let it steep for 10–15 minutes, then pour the tea into your bath.

• Soak for 10–15 minutes.

• Always patch test first to ensure your skin doesn’t react.

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💡 Pro Tips for Any Bath Routine:

• Use lukewarm water, never hot! Hot water strips away natural oils and worsens dryness.

• Limit your soak to 10–15 minutes max.

• Apply a thick moisturiser within 3 minutes of getting out to lock in moisture.

• Always patch test any new ingredients or methods before fully immersing yourself.

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Taking care of eczema-prone skin is about finding gentle, consistent routines that work for you. Bathing can be a calming ritual, and just remember, less is often more when it comes to sensitive skin.

Have you tried any of these baths? Share your experience in the comments!

Until next time,

My