THE WINTER ECZEMA PICTURE

Many names have been used to describe this condition but perhaps this is the most descriptive term. Winter eczema only occurs in that season and is confined to people with a tendency for dry skin. Central heating giving a dry atmosphere, plus frequent, long, hot showers with liberal use of soap are the trigger factors in this condition. Winter eczema tends to become more common and more severe as we grow older and this tendency is probably due to older skin being less able to produce oil and retain moisture. In some elderly people winter eczema persists year round.
The first change seen in the skin is some mild flaking which is associated with itch. Soon redness, cracking and scaling appear. The commonest sites for winter eczema are the flanks and the lower limbs but any area can be affected.