It’s an exhausting, frustrating cycle.
As I’m drifting off, I feel that tell-tale irritation and urge to scratch.
And while itching offers a brief reprieve, the cycle soon repeats (often more than once).
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Problems falling and staying asleep, followed by daytime exhaustion.
Sleep and eczema are closely linked, and one can feed off of the other.
Alex Dimitriu, a double board-certified psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist, sleep and eczema have a bidirectional relationship.
“Good sleepand reduced stress can improve eczema.
Improved eczema and reduced itching can improve sleep, creating a virtuous cycle,” says Dr. Dimitriu.
The itching and discomfort make it harder to fall asleep.
And even after you drift off, the urge to scratch may jolt you awake repeatedly throughout the night.
Sleep deprivationcan then increase inflammation, leading to further flare-ups and, you guessed it, even worse sleep.
This can create further issues with mood, energy levels, focus, and overallwell-being.
Of course, that unhelpful way of thinking did absolutely nothing to make my symptoms any more bearable.
During the night, your body’s cortisol levels naturally drop.
Amy Huang, board-certified dermatologist with Medical Offices of Manhattan.
Because body temperature rises at nightespecially when lying under blanketsit can make irritated skin even itchier and more inflamed.
In one study, kids with lower nighttime body temperatures experienced more scratching while asleep.
The skin also loses moisture as we sleep, increasing dryness and itching.
Asmi Berry, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles.
Environmental Triggers
Your environment also plays a big role inhow well you sleepespecially if you have eczema.
We lack those distractions at night.
And once you start scratching, it can be difficult to stop.
You feel more, things bug you more, and it’s harder to let go.
Combine this with fatigue, and days can become quite challenging.
Recap
Dealing with nighttime eczema flareups can be tricky.
Some fairly simple changes can go a long way toward easing skin irritation.
Stick to a Soothing Skincare Routine
For my own symptoms, nighttime skincare is a must.
Be cautious of sun exposure and be sure you are wearing adequate SPF that is made for sensitive skin.
People with atopic dermatitis often have a compromised skin barrier, making it harder to retain moisture.
Stick with gentle cleansers and avoid products that contain heavy fragrances.
And don’t forget the SPF!
Some brands offer options made from fabrics such as TENCELTM to help reduce nighttime irritation.
Lifestyle factors can play a big role in the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Qualitysleep habits, Dr. Dimitriu says, are key.
That includes things like stress, nutrition, and even screentime can impact your skin and your sleep quality.
Not only can higher stress levels trigger eczema symptoms; having eczema symptoms contributes to high stress levels.
Easing stress is absolutely essential if you want to get a good night’s sleep.
How do you do it?
A consistent pre-sleep routine can help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down and relax.
The goal is to make your nighttime routine as soothing and stress-free as possible.
It’s good for your body and it helps keep your skin calm and comfortable.
Can Medications Help Improve Sleep?
Dr. Dimitriu notes that antihistamines can help reduce itching and improve sleep quality.
However, you should use caution and talk to your doctor first.
Skincare and lifestyle changes can help, but there are times when eczema-related sleep problems need medical treatment.
Such triggers can include allergens or might be related to stress or diet.
Understanding why eczema symptoms tend to flare at night is the key to finding an effective solution.
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