Dear Moira 

During the hot weather, my child really struggles with her eczema. She is far itchier, and we find it hard to keep her cool and reduce the itch. Do you have any ideas? 

Why Summer Can Be Difficult for Eczema 

In summer, children tend to wear lighter clothing, giving them easier access to scratch their skin. The combination of heat, sweat, and allergens in the air can trigger flare-ups, making it harder for your child to stay comfortable—especially at bedtime, when the house may still be warm. 

What to Wear: Dressing for Comfort 

When choosing clothes for your child in the heat, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton. This material is gentle on the skin and helps reduce overheating. Even on hot days, long sleeves and trousers can be helpful by limiting direct contact with allergens and discouraging scratching during a flare-up. 

If your child is really struggling with the heat, some families have found success in gently wrapping them in a cool, damp microfibre towel. This can lower their body temperature and soothe their skin. After cooling them down, don’t forget to apply a layer of emollient while the skin is still slightly damp—this helps lock in moisture. 

Keeping the House Cool (and Allergy-Friendly) 

While it might feel natural to throw open the windows for a breeze, this can let in allergens like pollen. For children with eczema, that can mean increased irritation and flare-ups. Try keeping windows closed during high pollen times and use a fan to circulate cool air in their room. 

Another helpful tip: place a clean sheet over your child’s bed during the day to keep allergens off the bedding. At night, simply remove the sheet for a cleaner, more soothing sleeping environment. 

The Laundry Dilemma: Drying Clothes in Allergy Season 

We all love the smell of freshly sun-dried laundry—but during allergy season, drying clothes outside can expose them to pollen and other irritants. For children with eczema, this can cause itching and discomfort once they wear the clothes. To reduce irritation, try drying your child’s clothes indoors during peak allergy times, even if it means using a clothes rack or indoor airer. 

Final Thoughts 

Managing eczema during the hot months can feel overwhelming, but small changes—like choosing the right clothing, keeping indoor spaces cool, and minimising exposure to allergens—can really help. Every child is different, so don’t be afraid to experiment to find what works best for yours. 

You’re doing a great job supporting your child’s comfort and skin health, even when the weather makes things tricky.