Skin-Friendly Summer

Summer should be enjoyed by everyone, and with a few helpful tips, people with sensitive skin or skin conditions like Eczema can also have a blast in the sunshine.

To make this a reality, take a look at these summer tips all people with or without sensitive skin should follow...

Sunscreen

Here’s a no-brainer! Sunscreen is a year-round essential, regardless of the weather. UVA and UVB rays can still penetrate through clouds and cause damage to our skin (even on cold and overcast days).

Smart Sunscreen Selection - Shield your skin wisely by checking ingredients for allergens. For Eczema Warriors, embrace mineral-based sunscreens with titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO). And for those with sensitive skin, go alcohol-free and fragrance-free for a happy, irritation-free summer glow!

Sunscreen Powerhouse - SPF-50 is the Superstar! Dr. Yu (Massachusetts General Hospital) shares the secret—SPF-50 is a true guardian, blocking 98% of those pesky UV rays. Going higher might not be the magic touch, so slather on that SPF-50 goodness and let your skin revel in the ultimate sun protection.

Seal of Approval for Eczema Bliss - Your skin's BFF is the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance. Trust the best—these products are rigorously tested for your safety. And guess what? Bellabu Bear's got the magic touch too! With their Seal of Acceptance, you can bid eczema worries adieu and embrace the soothing comfort they bring to your skin.

Click this link to see some awarded and trusted products.

Safety First - Patch Test Your Way! For those with photoallergic contact dermatitis, a little patch test goes a long way. Dab a pea-sized amount on your inner wrist or elbow and wait 24-48 hours. Keep a close eye for any red flags—itchiness, redness, flaking, pain, or unexpected guests like rashes or breakouts. Better safe than sorry, so patch away and make sure your sunscreen love story is irritation-free!

Summer Skin Wisdom - For cuts, bites, or scratches, cozy up with a Band-Aid. They're your skin's little protectors! And speaking of shield heroes, never forget the power of sunscreen. Reapply like a sun-kissed pro—it's the secret to skin's happiness. And if the sun plays a little too rough, soothe with aloe's magical touch, and your skin will thank you with a smile!

Cool As A Cucumber

Beat the heat and embrace fun in the sun! Don't let sweat steal your sunshine! Stay cool and chase those summer dreams. With these tips in your pocket, playing all day under the perfect sky is still on the table. Soak up the joy and savor every moment, for summer's magic is here to stay!

• Carry a cooler bag with bottles of cold water and cooling towels/washcloths to cool down your body temperature and wipe sweat off right after playing.
• Hydration is key! Drinks lots and lots of water, and even eat cooling and reduced sugary foods
• Keep the insides of elbows and backs of knees as dry as possible, since sweat tends to collect there when it’s hot
• Before going in any body of water, be sure to moisturize your skin. Then immediately after playing in the water, rinse off in a lukewarm to cold shower or bath before moisturizing your skin again while you’re still damp! Putting on moisturizer can help keep your skin from cracking after being in water. It’s nice to keep your moisturizers, gels, and lotions in the fridge to stay extra cold to use on hot days. No slacking on you or a loved one’s skin care regime!

Chill in the shade and savor summer's ease! When the sun's done sprinkling joy, find solace in the shade's embrace. Summer is all about laid-back bliss, so unwind, relax, and let the days unfold with a carefree breeze. Save the hustle for the school year, and let summer's gentle touch soothe your soul.

Clothing

Staying comfortable in hot and humid conditions is essential for enjoying the summer to the fullest. 

Sunglasses are not only a stylish accessory but also an essential tool for protecting your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays. Don't leave home without them! And when you're headed to the beach or exploring outdoors, don't forget to slip on your comfy flip flops or sandals to shield your feet from the scorching hot sand and sharp rocks. With your eyes and feet well-protected, you can fully enjoy the sunny days ahead with confidence and comfort! 😎

Cooling bamboo pajamas are a must-have for summer nights and hot-weather sleepwear. Bellabu Bear's soft and moisture-wicking fabric ensures a cool and comfortable night's sleep, reducing sweat and discomfort. The loose-fitting style adds to the breathability, making it perfect for warm nights.

But the best part? These bamboo pajamas are versatile enough to be used in colder months too, thanks to their insulating qualities that keep you cozy when the temperature drops. Bellabu Bear goes above and beyond by offering not only cooling properties but also a range of other benefits. Their hypoallergenic nature ensures a gentle touch on the skin, perfect for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema.

Moreover, choosing sustainable and eco-friendly materials like bamboo contributes to a greener planet, making these pajamas a conscious choice. And let's not forget about the beautiful patterns and designs that add a touch of style and fun to your bedtime routine!

So, this summer and beyond, wrap yourself in the comfort of Bellabu Bear's bamboo pajamas and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and eco-consciousness for your sleepwear needs. Sweet dreams await! 🌙

Finding the perfect swimsuit that won't irritate your skin can be a process of trial and error, especially for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions. Swimsuits need to stay snug to withstand water and active pool play, but tight seams and straps can lead to uncomfortable friction and chafing.

When searching for a swimsuit that won't irritate sensitive skin or trigger skin conditions like eczema, paying attention to the fabric is crucial. Avoid swimsuits made with petroleum, latex, and polyester, as these materials can be common irritants.

Instead, opt for more eczema-friendly materials like cotton, hemp, and bamboo. Natural fabrics provide a softer and gentler touch on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation and discomfort. They are also breathable and allow for better airflow, which is ideal for staying comfortable during water activities.

By choosing swimsuits with skin-friendly materials, you can enjoy your time in the pool or at the beach without worrying about skin reactions. So, dive into summer fun with confidence, knowing that your swimsuit's fabric has your skin's best interests in mind! 🩱🌊

Washing your swimsuit before its first use is a smart step to remove any potential irritants from the manufacturing process. By doing a trial run at home, you can check if the swimsuit itself causes any skin flare-ups or discomfort. This initial test helps you identify any issues with the swimsuit's fabric or design before venturing to the pool or beach.

Once you've confirmed that the swimsuit is safe for your skin, you can gradually introduce other factors, such as pool chemicals, sunscreen, and sun exposure, to see how your skin reacts. This systematic approach allows you to pinpoint specific triggers and make informed decisions about which parts or activities may cause skin flare-ups.

By being proactive and testing the waters (literally and figuratively) at home first, you can ensure a fun and irritation-free experience when you hit the pool or beach. Prioritize your skin's health and comfort, and let your summer adventures be filled with joy and worry-free moments!

And again, right after playing in the water, rinse, moisturize, and get into dry clothes.

Activities

While it's essential to protect our skin from excessive sun exposure, the sun can indeed have some beneficial effects, particularly when it comes to Eczema.

Vitamin D, which our bodies produce when exposed to sunlight, plays a crucial role in various aspects of our health, including skin health. Studies have shown that adequate levels of Vitamin D may help in reducing the severity of Eczema symptoms and improving overall skin condition in some individuals with Eczema.

Of course, it's crucial to strike a balance and practice safe sun habits, especially for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions. Sunscreen and protective clothing should always be used to prevent sunburn and skin damage while still allowing the benefits of Vitamin D exposure.

If you have Eczema or any other skin condition, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist to determine the most suitable sun exposure and skincare routine for your individual needs.

With the right precautions and sun-safe practices, you can enjoy the sun's positive effects on your skin while keeping it well-protected and healthy. ☀️

For some individuals with Eczema, chlorine in pools and saltwater in the ocean may have a soothing effect on their skin. Chlorinated pools, in particular, have been found to have a similar soothing effect to taking a bleach bath, which is a common home remedy recommended by healthcare professionals to help manage Eczema symptoms.

The chlorine in pools and the natural minerals in saltwater can help to cleanse the skin and reduce bacteria, which can be beneficial for some people with Eczema. However, this isn't the case for everyone, and individual reactions may vary.

It's crucial to listen to your body and monitor your skin health and symptoms accordingly. If you notice any signs of irritation or worsening of your eczema after swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater, it's best to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Overall, while some people may find relief from Eczema symptoms through swimming in chlorinated or saltwater, others may not have the same experience. Always prioritize your skin's health and take appropriate measures to protect and manage your eczema as needed.

Dr. Olivia Hsu Friedman at the Eczema Expo 2023 mentioned 7 ways anyone can reduce stress to calm your itchy skin and that’s through laughing, practicing yoga, cuddling, doing breathwork, going outside, meditating, and journaling. All of these activities and practices are doable on a hot, sunny day!

Having Eczema or other skin conditions shouldn't hold you back from enjoying the summer fun. With some extra caution and mindful practices, you can still embrace the joy of summer while taking care of your skin.

With these helpful tips and tricks to care for your skin during the summer, you and your loved ones can bid farewell to "Summertime Sadness" (thanks Lana Del Rey) and welcome a season filled with joy, fun, and memorable moments. Embrace the warmth of the sun, the coolness of the water, and the beauty of nature while keeping your skin happy and comfortable. Make this summer a season of laughter, adventure, and cherished memories for everyone to enjoy! ☀️🌊🏖️😊