How Humidity Affects Eczema – Too Much or Too Little?
Humidity—the amount of moisture in the air—might not be something you think about daily, but if you suffer from eczema, it could be making a big difference to your skin.
Both high and low humidity can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms. Understanding how it works can help you create the right environment to keep flare-ups under control and protect your skin barrier.
Low Humidity (Dry Air) – A Common Winter Trigger
Dry air, especially during cold weather or when central heating is on, pulls moisture from your skin. If you already have eczema, this can quickly lead to:
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Dry, cracked skin
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Itching and flaking
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Increased sensitivity and redness
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Why it happens:
Low humidity reduces the water content in the top layer of your skin, weakening your skin barrier. This allows irritants to enter more easily, which can cause inflammation and flare-ups.
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How to manage dry air:​
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Use a humidifier to add moisture back into the air
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Apply a rich, fragrance-free moisturiser several times a day
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Avoid overheating your home
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Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out
High Humidity (Moist, Sticky Air) – Not Always Helpful
On the flip side, high humidity—especially in hot summer weather—can also be problematic. When it’s humid:
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Sweat sits on the skin longer, which can lead to irritation and itching
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Bacteria and yeast grow more easily in warm, damp conditions, increasing the risk of skin infections
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Clothes stick to the skin, causing friction and discomfort
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How to manage humid conditions:​
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Wear loose, breathable fabrics like cotton
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Take cool showers and pat skin dry gently
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Keep your environment cool with fans or air conditioning
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Rinse off sweat after exercise or being outdoors
What's the Ideal Humidity Level for Eczema?
For most people with eczema, the sweet spot is between 40% and 60% relative humidity. This range helps maintain skin hydration without encouraging sweat build-up or bacterial overgrowth.
You can monitor humidity using a small hygrometer and adjust your home environment with a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed.
Final Thoughts
Humidity may be invisible, but it has a big impact on your skin. If your eczema tends to get worse in certain weather or seasons, the air’s moisture level could be to blame.
At Eczema Eaze, we believe that small environmental tweaks—like adjusting humidity—can make a big difference in your eczema journey. Pay attention to how your skin reacts in different conditions, and take control of your environment wherever you can.