While it can be difficult to prioritise exercise during an AD flare, with the right care and preparation you can enjoy the benefits of exercise while maintaining your skin health. 

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Exercise and Sweat Effects on the Skin 

There is no evidence to suggest that exercise directly triggers flares. However, increased skin temperature can indeed trigger and worsen the sensation of itch, potentially leading to scratching and causing direct trauma to the skin. Intense exercise can rapidly raise your body temperature, thus potentially stimulating the skin's itch reflexes.

Loss of fluids through sweating can dry out the skin, making AD-affected areas even more  dehydrated. The minerals contained in sweat (such as sodium) can also cause dehydration, as well as stinging and irritation. 

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Exercise benefits for AD

The main benefit of exercise for those with AD is actually an indirect effect. We know stress can trigger AD flares through various mechanisms, and we know that exercise has proven benefits in reducing stress levels and improving mood. Therefore, adding exercise into our daily routines can help reduce stress and reduce AD flares.

Although the mechanism is unclear, some studies have suggested that aerobic exercise can improve AD by reducing inflammatory responses in the skin.

As well as this, exercise can help us to get better quality sleep, which can be difficult with AD.

Although extra steps are required to prepare the skin for exercise, the potential benefits for skin health, mood levels and overall fitness outweigh the preparation required.  

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Tips for exercising with AD

1. Hydration - Drinking regular fluids during and after a workout will help keep skin hydrated by replacing the fluids lost through sweat. 
2. Clothes - Sweat-wicking fabrics can be irritating to the skin. Try to wear light, breathable fabrics such as 100% cotton. Tight waistbands and synthetic fabrics are best avoided - try to find loose-fitting clothing. 
3. Keep cool, regular rest breaks - Since temperature changes can trigger a flare, it is important to take rest breaks so your body can cool down. Use a towel to wipe away sweat, and take this time to rehydrate with cool drinking water. Try to exercise in well-ventilated, indoor areas to maintain a stable and comfortable temperature. 
4. Moisturise - Use a light moisturiser before exercising to keep skin hydrated without locking in sweat. After your post-workout shower, make sure to moisturise with a thicker emollient to replace the water loss. 
5. Low-impact workouts during a flare - During an AD flare, try to stick to lower impact exercises where the change in body temperature is less severe. Activities such as yoga, pilates and walking can be suitable alternatives during flares. 
6. Wash sweat off after workout - Shower after exercise to remove irritating sweat from the skin. Follow this with your normal most-shower moisturiser or cream. 

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Swimming

Chlorine can be a trigger for some people’s eczema, while others may be able to tolerate it. If you enjoy swimming, find a clean pool with a neutral pH.

Take steps to protect your skin while swimming, such as using a thick emollient before entering the water. Shower immediately after swimming, and moisturise as usual.