Managing Eczema, Psoriasis & Dermatitis Flare-ups During the Holiday Season

The holiday season brings celebration, colder weather, and a change of pace – but if you’re living with a chronic skin condition like eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis, it can also bring flare-ups and frustration. Between cold winds, central heating, heavy winter clothing and festive stress, your skin often bears the brunt of the season. From our clinical experience, we know how challenging it can be to keep symptoms under control when routines are disrupted and triggers increase.

For many of our patients, flare-ups tend to worsen in winter – not just because of the weather, but because of the lifestyle changes that come with the holidays. Travelling, wearing new or layered clothing, eating differently, and using scented toiletries or decorations can all contribute to skin irritation. Add emotional stress to the mix, and it’s no surprise that this time of year can be tough on sensitive or inflamed skin.

If you have eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis, it’s worth taking a few extra precautions during the festive season. Below, we’ve outlined practical advice to help you manage flare-ups, reduce your exposure to common triggers, and know when to seek support from a specialist.

Why Do Skin Conditions Flare Up in Winter?

Several environmental and lifestyle factors make the holiday season a high-risk time for flare-ups of inflammatory skin conditions:

• Dry air caused by central heating and cold outdoor temperatures draws moisture out of the skin.
  
  
• Stress, even when it’s related to positive events, can impact the immune system and worsen skin inflammation.
  
  
• Heavy clothing, especially wool or synthetic materials, can trap sweat or irritate the skin.
  
  
• Hot baths and showers, often tempting in cold weather, can strip away protective oils.
  
  
• Fragranced products such as perfumes, candles and festive toiletries can act as allergens.
  
  
• Dietary changes, especially increased alcohol and sugar intake, may affect inflammation in some individuals.
  
  
• Interrupted routines, such as late nights or inconsistent skincare, may contribute to flare-ups.
  
  

Understanding how these elements affect your specific condition is the first step in preventing unnecessary discomfort.

 

Managing Eczema During the Holidays

Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is highly reactive to environmental and emotional changes. The skin barrier is already compromised, so additional triggers during the holidays can quickly cause itching, redness and flare-ups.

Tips for managing eczema this season:

• Avoid long, hot showers – keep them lukewarm and limit to 10 minutes.
  
  
• Pat skin dry gently and apply moisturiser within 2 minutes to lock in hydration.
  
  
• Use emollients generously and frequently, especially on hands and face. Choose fragrance-free, medical-grade creams or ointments.
  
  
• Avoid wearing wool directly against the skin – opt for soft, breathable cotton layers underneath.
  
  
• Watch out for new soaps, toiletries or festive bath products – even small amounts of fragrance or preservatives can trigger irritation.
  
  
• Stick to your regular treatment plan, even if you’re travelling or staying with relatives.
  
  

If your eczema is flaring more than usual or not responding to your usual treatment, we offer tailored support through our eczema management service.

Psoriasis and Holiday Stress: What to Know

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated condition that can be particularly sensitive to stress and lifestyle disruption. At this time of year, we often see patients experiencing more active flare-ups, scaling, or discomfort due to weather, clothing friction, and fatigue.

Practical tips for handling psoriasis during the festive period:

• Use thick moisturisers such as ointments to protect and soften plaques – especially after bathing.
  
  
• Stick to prescribed treatments such as vitamin D analogues or topical steroids – avoid skipping applications during busy periods.
  
  
• Protect your skin from cold air with scarves or gloves, but avoid overheating, which can increase itching.
  
  
• Minimise stress where possible – brief moments of mindfulness, rest, and hydration can all help reduce immune system activity.
  
  
• Limit alcohol intake, which may worsen flare-ups in some people with psoriasis.
  
  

If your current routine isn’t keeping symptoms under control, our psoriasis treatment service can help adjust your plan with prescription treatments, light therapy or systemic options, depending on severity.

How to Reduce Dermatitis Flare-Ups Over the Holidays

“Dermatitis” is a broad term covering several types of skin inflammation – from contact dermatitis to seborrhoeic and irritant forms. During the holidays, we often see patients experiencing contact dermatitis triggered by new clothing, scented products, or even Christmas trees and decorations. Seborrhoeic dermatitis, which affects the scalp and face, may also worsen in dry, indoor conditions.

Here’s how to keep dermatitis in check:

• Be cautious with new skincare products or cosmetics, especially gifts or samples.
  
  
• Avoid scented candles, air fresheners or seasonal fragrances, which may contain known allergens.
  
  
• Protect your hands – wear gloves when washing up or handling cleaning products, and moisturise after every wash.
  
  
• Stick to a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and use lukewarm water when washing your face or hands.
  
  
• Moisturise affected areas twice daily – ointments are more effective in dry winter air than lotions.
  
  

If dermatitis is affecting your day-to-day comfort or interfering with your social plans, a consultation through our dermatitis service can help clarify your triggers and provide targeted relief.

Winter Allergies and Skin Reactions

It’s not only chronic skin conditions that flare in winter – seasonal allergies can also trigger skin reactions, especially in those prone to eczema or contact dermatitis.

Common winter skin allergy triggers include:

• Fragrance in perfumes, candles and diffusers
  
  
• Nickel in festive jewellery or costume accessories
  
  
• Wool or synthetic fibres in scarves and jumpers
  
  
• Dust mites in carpets, guest bedding or Christmas decorations
  
  
• Pet dander, especially when visiting friends or family with animals
  
  

If you notice hives, itching or contact rashes that coincide with festive activities, it’s worth tracking what’s changed in your environment. Switching to hypoallergenic products and avoiding direct skin contact with triggers can help. We can also arrange patch testing or prescribe antihistamines or topical treatments if needed.

When to Seek Help

It’s normal for skin to be a little drier or more sensitive in winter, but there are times when it’s best to seek medical input:

• Your regular treatment no longer works
  
  
• You’re getting frequent or severe flare-ups
  
  
• Skin is cracking, bleeding or becoming infected
  
  
• Symptoms are affecting your sleep or quality of life
  
  
• You’re unsure what’s causing the irritation
  
  

At The Devonshire Clinic, our team of consultant dermatologists can help manage eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis at every stage – from diagnosis to long-term control. If your symptoms are flaring this season, don’t wait until January to seek help. Early intervention prevents complications and helps you enjoy the holidays with more comfort and confidence.

Visit our pages on eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis to find out more, or contact us directly to book a consultation.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cold weather really make skin conditions worse?

Yes. Cold air and indoor heating both contribute to skin dryness, which aggravates eczema, psoriasis and other conditions. Protective clothing and heavier moisturisers can help.

Are there specific moisturisers better suited for winter?

Ointment-based emollients or thick creams without fragrance are best in colder months. These help to seal in moisture and protect the skin barrier more effectively.

How can I avoid skin irritation from holiday clothing?

Wear breathable, natural fibres underneath wool or synthetic layers. Wash new clothes before wearing and avoid tight garments that trap heat or cause friction.

Should I stop using my prescription cream over Christmas?

No – stick to your treatment plan even if you’re travelling or busy. Consistency is key to managing chronic skin conditions, especially during seasonal changes.

What if I have a reaction to a holiday product or decoration?

Discontinue use immediately and wash the area with gentle cleanser. If symptoms persist or worsen, we can assess whether it’s an allergic or irritant reaction.

 

Keep Your Skin Comfortable This Season

The holidays should be a time for enjoyment, not discomfort. With the right strategies – and expert support if needed – it’s possible to manage skin flare-ups and keep your condition under control. Whether you’re dealing with eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis or seasonal skin allergies, we’re here to help you protect your skin during the winter months and beyond.

Explore our medical dermatology services or book a consultation to get tailored advice for your skin.