Eczema in the Winter? I’m Itchy, Bro: Real Tips from a Cold, Flaky College Student
Look, winter already sucks. It’s cold, it’s dark at 4 p.m., and my skin? Absolutely feral. If you’ve got eczema, you already know the struggle. One second you’re fine, the next you’re scratching your arm in class like you’re trying to start a fire.
But don’t panic! You don’t need to spend your ice coffee money on expensive skincare. Here are some eczema survival tips, straight from someone who’s juggling finals, seasonal depression, and an elbow rash that looks like the moon.
1. Moisturize Like It’s a Personality Trait
Rule #1: thick moisturizer. Like, thicc. The kind that doesn’t rub in all the way and makes you shiny enough to blind someone in the library. Forget those scented lotions from the mall — your eczema said no thanks. La Roche-Posay and Nivea have some great options.
Pro tip: If you’re broke (me), coconut oil from your kitchen is a solid substitute. It’s greasy, yes, but your skin will thank you. Just maybe don’t lie down on your bed afterward unless you enjoy oil stains on your sheets and your PJs.
2. Oatmeal Baths Are for Soft Girls and Itchy Boys
This sounds weird, but hear me out: grind up some plain oats (yes, the breakfast kind), throw them in a warm bath, and soak. It legit helps calm your skin and makes you feel like you’re bathing in a latte. Another great idea is to put the oats in an old, CLEAN sock, so you don’t have to make a call to the plumber.
You don’t need a fancy spa, you need 89-cent oats and 20 minutes to vibe in the tub while your roommates wonder why it smells like granola.
3. Honey: Not Just for Tea or That Guy in Your DMs
Raw honey has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial magic powers. I dab a little on small eczema spots, chill for like 20 minutes, rinse it off, then moisturize like I’m frosting a cake.
Just don’t fall asleep with it on or you will wake up with stains on your silk pillow. Learn from my mistakes.
4. Aloe Vera, My Slimy Green Bestie
If you’ve got one of those sad little aloe plants in your dorm window, it’s time to use it for more than decoration. Aloe is super soothing and works wonders on irritated skin.
Scoop out the gel, slap it on the itchy spots, and try not to get it in your hair (or do, it’s pretty moisturizing). It’s nature’s version of calming down.
5. Throw out your Bath and Body works coupons
This one hurt me, but your eczema hates our Bath and Body works campaign body wash. Fragrance-free everything is the way. Body wash, detergent, lotions, even candles if you’re extra sensitive.
I know it feels like giving up your aesthetic, but “Clean Girl” is in anyway, right?
6. Hack Your Dry Dorm Air
Heaters dry the air out like crazy. You could get a humidifier, or you could college-hack it: put a bowl of water near your heater or hang a damp towel in your room. Yes, it looks weird. Yes, it works.
7. DIY Anti-Itchers
- Chamomile tea compress: brew a bag, chill it, slap it on.
- Apple cider vinegar: dilute it with water (important!!) and dab it on. Burns on broken skin though, so be careful.
- Shea butter: rich, unscented, makes you feel fancy even if you’re wearing pajama pants to your 8 a.m.
Final Thoughts from a Flaky Friend
Winter eczema is rude and relentless, but you don’t have to suffer. With some budget-friendly home remedies, a whole lot of moisturizer, and a sense of humor about the fact that your skin is literally falling off, you’ll survive to tanning season.
Stay hydrated, stay greasy, and for the love of all that is holy — stop scratching your face, it WILL scar.