<p>Hi! This is a re-post from the CC Cafe at a user’s (very kind) suggestion suggestion.</p>
<p>What places in the U.S. don’t feel humid? What places should I avoid that feel very humid during the school year? I have eczema, so my skin tends to sweat and itch when it feels humid or the temperature goes from hot to cold and back again continuously. Those who also have eczema can probably relate to me. The few times that it has happened here in the Seattle area, I have found it very difficult to foucus on schoolwork. Usually, it is either hot and dry or cold and humid, which is fine since it almost never feels humid at all. What I’m worried about is hot and humid weather. I hope that makes sense…</p>
<p>FYI, I know I shouldn’t put too much of an emphasis on this for choosing my college list (I’m a junior), as it isn’t as bad as many people’s, but I’m still a bit worried. I also realize that when I go to college, I won’t be there for the worst of the weather, but I would still like to know. I also know I can do a Google search, but I would like to hear people’s experiences on this. Yes, medicine does heal scabs once they have formed, but it does not help prevent them from forming or my head from itching. </p>
<p>Coastal California and the pacific NW are probably the only areas with cool moist weather and tolerable relative humidity in winter. Once you get to regions with sub- freezing winters the indoor humidity plummets during winter. I suspect very dry indoor air is also bad for eczema. If you don’t plan on summer school you might consider areas of inland California too.</p>
<p>Asheville NC might be worth considering too, and perhaps schools at similar elevations in the south.</p>
<p>Try to avoid extremes in temperature. The idea is you want to keep your skin well hydrated. Some humidity is good for eczema, but hot and sticky weather results in dehydration. Likewise, cold and dry air (along with wind) will aggravate the dryness (and going indoors where there’s excessive heat compounds the problem). Think moderate zones; on the east coast, I would say the mid-Atlantic area is best. A main cause for exacerbation of eczema is taking long hot showers, so keep that in mind, too! Drink water. Use a gentle cream like Eucerin. Control any allergies you may have. Keep nails short. A little prevention goes a long way.</p>
<p>Also be careful about shower gel and laundry detergents. As soon as you get a little patch, use over the counter cortisone cream to quickly get it under control. Keeping skin moisturized with a gentle cream is excellent advice.</p>
<p>I would also try to get to the root of your eczema. It’s often caused by an allergy or autoimmune disorder and it can be treated so you don’t have to suffer from it.</p>