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Anyone who has or knows someone with knows how tricky it can be. According to the , it's a common skin condition that affects roughly 30 percent of Americans. Yet keeping it from flaring up is an ongoing (but manageable) process.

"Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that makes skin dry, itchy, inflamed, and bumpy. It weakens the , making it harder to retain moisture and protect against external elements," board-certified dermatologist Anetta Reszko, MD, PhD, tells PS. Seasonal weather changes can trigger eczema, with the wintertime being especially harsh, making skin more susceptible to becoming rough and dry.



To an extent, the summer months can bring some much-needed relief to those who experience eczema. "In general, people's eczema improves with increased sun exposure over the summer. However, some people flare with increased sweating," says board-certified dermatologist Carmen Castilla, MD.

Despite the numerous challenges that come with having eczema, using the right over-the-counter products and avoiding your triggers can be a game changer in keeping flare-ups at bay. "Individuals with eczema need to be cautious of what products they are using on their body — especially ones with harsher actives like and , fragrances, or essential oils. I recommend being extra mindful of , alcohol, and lanolin in skin-care formulations," board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, says.

Though it's advisable to visit a board-certified dermatologist to help d.

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