Why Your Eczema Gets Worse in Spring – The Pollen Effect
When pollen season hits, many people suffer from sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses. But if you have eczema, you might notice something else—your skin starts to flare up. That’s because pollen allergies can directly affect eczema, triggering itchiness, inflammation, and dry, irritated skin.
Here’s what you need to know about the link between pollen and eczema, and how to protect your skin during allergy season.
What Is Pollen?
Pollen is a fine powder released by plants, trees, grasses, and weeds. It’s a major trigger for hay fever (allergic rhinitis)—but it can also make life more difficult for those with eczema.
When pollen levels are high, tiny particles float through the air and can land on your skin, where they may irritate and inflame sensitive eczema-prone areas.
How Pollen Allergies Affect Eczema
People with atopic eczema (which is linked to allergies and asthma) are more likely to react to airborne allergens like pollen. When your immune system overreacts to pollen, it can cause:
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Increased skin inflammation
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Intense itching and flare-ups
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Dryness and discomfort
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Worsened eczema on exposed areas like the face, neck, arms, and hands
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Pollen can also weaken the skin barrier, making your skin more vulnerable to other irritants and infections.
Signs Your Eczema Is Triggered by Pollen
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Flare-ups happen more often in spring or summer
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Your eczema worsens when you're outdoors or near plants
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You also experience hay fever symptoms (sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion)
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Exposed areas of skin react more than covered areas
Tips to Manage Eczema During Pollen Season
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Check pollen forecasts daily – stay indoors when counts are high
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Shower and change clothes after being outdoors
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Keep windows closed – especially during high pollen times (early morning & evening)
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Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor pollen
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Apply a barrier moisturiser before going outside to protect your skin
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Wash bedding regularly to remove pollen build-up
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Use antihistamines if approved by your doctor – they can help reduce allergic reactions
Natural Relief for Pollen-Induced Eczema
Some gentle, natural remedies may help soothe irritated skin during pollen season:
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Oatmeal baths – calm itching and reduce inflammation
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Aloe vera gel – hydrates and cools hot, itchy skin
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Cold compresses – relieve redness and discomfort
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Always patch test new products, especially when your skin is flaring.
Final Thoughts
Pollen may be invisible, but its effects on eczema are very real. If your skin gets worse during certain times of the year, seasonal allergies might be the reason. With a few simple changes, you can minimise flare-ups and stay in control of your eczema—even when pollen is in the air.
At Eczema Eaze, we're here to help you beat the itch with real, practical advice all year round.