Overview
- With around 8 million people in the UK affected, Dr Emma Craythorne advises warm or lukewarm bathing to reduce heat-driven dryness.
- Apply moisturiser immediately after stepping out to lock in water, then gently pat dry and dress.
- Choose fragrance-free, cream-based cleansers and emollients with ceramides instead of alkaline soaps that strip lipids.
- Improve indoor humidity and create a warmer microclimate outdoors with gloves and a hooded parka that traps moisture.
- NHS guidance echoes these steps and advises washing with emollients, avoiding irritants, and consulting a GP about treatments such as hydrocortisone or prescription-strength steroids if flares persist.