For many of us, the cold winter weather can mean dry skin. For eczema sufferers, it can mean worsening symptoms of itching, cracking and bleeding. While corticosteroid creams help to temporarily relieve itching, they result in thinning skin over time.

Natural treatments with Chinese medicine, a non-steroid emollient cream and topical herbal treatment are your best option for clear, comfortable skin. The tips below can help you brave the winter months:

• Avoid foods and lifestyle choices that contribute to "heat" in the body: smoking, excessive alcohol consumption; spicy, processed, deep fried, fatty and overly rich or sweet foods.
• Keep a quality, all natural emollient cream with you at all times and moisturize regularly. (Ask about the all natural moisturizers at Qi.)
• Opt for sweaters, toques, gloves and mittens that do not contain wool, as the fiber can worsen atopic or allergic eczema.
• Bathe or shower with warm, noit hot, water. Make sure to use a mild cleanser, avoid excessive scrubbing or towelling, and apply your moisturizer to damp skin within 3 minutes of bathing.
• Avoid excessive sweating by engaging in moderate exercise and limiting bed clothing to prevent overheating at night. Keep your thermostat low even in winter months.
• Engage in a regular "stress reduction" routine such as yoga, meditation or tai chi. Anger, frustration and embarrassment can all contribute to flushing and itching.
• Try not to scratch at itchy, dry skin. This can actually worsen itching and lead to secondary infections.
• Be sure to wear gloves when dealing with irritants such as cleaners, acidic foods and other chemicals.
• Watch for signs of secondary infection from herpes or staph. Symptoms can include increased redness, fluid or pus filled bumps, cold sores and fever blisters.
• Consult a Dr. of Chinese Medicine with post-graduate training in Dermatological conditions. Systemic herbal treatments can address the root of the problem, rebalancing the body to clear the underlying cause of eczema, allergic or otherwise. Visit www.drcmolik.com for more information.

Wishing you a Comfortable and Healthy Winter.

Prepared by Dr. Kelly Cmolik DTCM, R.Ac.

*The information contained is for educational purposes only and not meant to diagnose, treat or prevent illness.

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