How to Keep Flare-Ups Calm When Routines Go Out the Window

Summer holidays are meant to be carefree. Late nights. Beach days. Family visits. Sleepovers. But if your child has eczema, this time of year can feel like you’re constantly bracing for the next flare-up.

If you’ve noticed skin getting itchier, sleep becoming harder, or routines completely unraveling. You’re not imagining it. Summer holidays genuinely change the things eczema relies on: consistency, temperature control, and sleep.

The good news? You don’t need a “perfect” routine to get through the holidays. You just need a few anchors.

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Why Eczema Often Flares During Summer Holidays

Several things tend to collide at once:

• Heat and sweat irritating already-sensitive skin

• Later bedtimes and overtired bodies

• Different bedding, clothing, and detergents when travelling

• More swimming, showering, and product changes

• Less predictable skincare routines

Individually, these may be manageable. Together, they can tip the balance.

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The Biggest Holiday Trigger Parents Overlook: Sleep Disruption

During holidays, sleep is often the first thing to go, and eczema feels it immediately.

• Hot nights increase sweating and itching

• Lighter sleep = more scratching

• Overtired kids scratch more intensely

• Missed nighttime skincare compounds irritation

Even one or two disrupted nights can lead to a flare that lasts days.

Protecting sleep doesn’t mean enforcing strict schedules. It means protecting comfort.

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How to Keep Eczema Calm (Even When Life Isn’t)

1. Anchor One Simple Night-Time Routine

You don’t need the full routine, just consistency around:

• Bath or gentle wipe-down

• Moisturiser

• Familiar sleepwear

• Scratch protection if needed

Doing this in the same order each night helps the skin and nervous system settle, even if bedtime shifts.

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2. Dress for Heat and Sensitivity

In summer, eczema-prone skin struggles with:

• Synthetic fabrics

• Thick seams

• Tight elastic

• Overheating at night

Look for:

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics

• Soft seams and labels

• Loose fits that allow airflow

• Nightwear designed to minimise scratching

Comfort matters more than layers.

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3. Pack Familiar Comforts When Travelling

Holiday flare-ups often come from unfamiliar environments.

If you’re staying away from home, consider packing:

• Your child’s usual sleepwear

• Familiar bedding or pillowcases

• Their regular moisturiser and cleanser

• A spare set of nightwear (just in case)

Familiar textures can calm skin more than we realise.

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4. Rinse After Swimming, Gently

Salt and chlorine can both dry and irritate skin.

After swimming:

• Rinse promptly with fresh water

• Use a gentle cleanser only if needed

• Moisturise while skin is still slightly damp

Overwashing can be just as irritating as not washing enough.

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5. Let Go of Perfection

Holidays aren’t about controlling eczema perfectly, they’re about supporting skin while life happens.

If flare-ups happen, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means your child’s skin is responding to change.

Gentle consistency beats strict rules every time.

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A Final Thought

Summer holidays don’t have to mean constant flare-ups. With a few thoughtful adjustments, especially around sleep and comfort, you can help your child enjoy the season without their skin taking centre stage.