Skin conditions and sleep disorders: why skin worsens in autumn

Which skin conditions get worse during autumn and what to do about it

Autumn is a season that we associate with the calming and lulling to sleep of nature, with less sunshine and much lower temperatures. However, this does not apply to us, because autumn is precisely a very turbulent period for the skin, as certain skin problems flare up then which, according to a new study, can also cause sleep problems. We spoke about which conditions occur or become active during this period, as well as how this can affect sleep, with Dr Miloš Živković.

Autumn and winter are seasons when the skin becomes drier, and many dermatological conditions enter a phase of exacerbation. The most common conditions that worsen in the upcoming period are eczema (atopic dermatitis), seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis, and lichen planus.

– We are seeing a worsening of eczema because colder air, wind, as well as dry air caused by heating mean that the skin loses moisture more rapidly, becoming dehydrated and dry. At the core of eczema there is actually inflammation accompanied by redness, skin dryness and flaking, so any additional drying out of the skin can easily worsen eczema, reveals Dr Živković.

A similar situation occurs with people suffering from psoriasis, and since sun rays have a beneficial effect on this problem, fewer sunny days and more time indoors, combined with the aforementioned dryness, very easily lead to a worsening.

Damp air and sudden temperature changes also lead to a worsening rosacea. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition accompanied by redness, dilated capillaries and, in some people, small red bumps on the skin.

– To prevent the worsening of redness, use skincare products formulated for sensitive skin that are free from perfumes, alcohol, colourings and other irritating substances. Avoid products containing fruit acids as they can worsen irritation. Products with azelaic acid have a soothing effect, and another beneficial ingredient is niacinamide, though I must point out that while niacinamide reduces redness and skin blemishes in most people, in a small number of patients it can worsen redness, so you should first patch-test products containing niacinamide on a small area of skin, says Dr Živković, a resident in aesthetic, plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Do not forget that the biggest enemy of rosacea is the sun, so always use a high protection factor.

How skin problems cause sleep disruption

A global study presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology reveals that half of patients with skin problems suffer from sleep disorders.

A large study, which analysed more than 50,000 adults across 20 countries to assess the impact of skin diseases, has shown that almost half (42 percent) of patients with skin conditions suffer from sleep disorders.

– It is considered that sleep disorders are caused by the intense itching and burning that accompany these conditions. A lack of sleep and broken sleep reduce the work productivity of these individuals, while fatigue occurs more frequently, and that as early as upon waking, along with drowsiness, yawning and burning eyes, which significantly reduces the quality of life, our interviewee points out.

As the consequences of the worsening of dermatological conditions not only cause skin changes and aesthetic problems, but also lead to systemic consequences, it is important to prevent deterioration.

– Proper care involves using gentle, oil-based bath products and short showers with lukewarm water. After showering, gently pat your skin dry with a towel while leaving it partially damp, and immediately apply a rich moisturising cream or balm. Choose moisturisers that are free from perfume and denatured alcohol, and are rich in nourishing oils, niacinamide, ceramides, shea butter, etc. Also, do not forget to drink enough fluids, the doctor tells us.

Source: https://zena.blic.rs/zdravlje/kozna-oboljenja-dovode-do-poremecaja-sna-kod-polovine-pacijenata-otkriva-studija/vsvr98x