Winter
- Switch to thicker creams or ointments.
- Keep baths short and lukewarm.
- Moisturize hands after washing.
- Use lip balm to prevent chapped lips.
- Wear gloves, hats and scarves outdoors; change out of wet clothes quickly.
- Use a cool-mist humidifier in dry, heated rooms.
Spring
- Rinse face and hands after outdoor play if pollen seems to bother your child’s skin or eyes.
- Watch for eczema flares as weather changes.
- Restart daily sunscreen as outdoor time increases.
Summer
- Daily sunscreen, hats and shade.
- Lighter moisturizers if heavy creams feel sticky.
- Rinse off sweat, sunscreen and pool water after activities.
- Watch for heat rash in skin folds.
- Use insect repellent as advised for your area, following label directions for children.
- Encourage plenty of water.
Fall
- Gradually return to richer moisturizers as air gets drier.
- Keep up sunscreen for outdoor sports — UV is still present.
- Check that winter clothing still fits and is soft on skin.
A seasonal check-in, step by step
- At the start of each season, look at your child’s skin: dry, oily, irritated or comfortable?
- Swap moisturizer weight as needed.
- Check sunscreen supplies and expiry dates.
- Review clothing and bedding for comfort.
- Adjust bath frequency and length.
Tip: Our printable Seasonal Skin Care Checklist makes these check-ins quick.
Hair and scalp through the seasons
Seasons affect hair too. Cold, dry air can make curly and coily hair feel drier and more prone to tangles, so many families increase conditioning in winter. Hats can cause friction — lining them with satin or choosing smooth fabrics can help. In summer, sweat, sunscreen and pool water can build up on the scalp, so rinsing after swimming or sports becomes more important.
Seasonal allergies and skin
Some children with eczema notice flares when pollen levels rise. Changing clothes and rinsing skin and hair after outdoor play on high-pollen days may help. If your child has itchy eyes, a runny nose or skin flares every spring or fall, talk to your pediatrician about whether allergies could be involved.
At every age
Every child is different — use these as a starting point, not a rulebook.
2–5 years
Parents make seasonal changes; involve children in choosing hats and lip balms.
6–9 years
Children can remember seasonal steps like sunscreen and gloves with reminders.
10–12 years
Tweens can manage their own seasonal adjustments.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using the same moisturizer all year regardless of dryness.
- Stopping sunscreen after summer.
- Overbundling in winter, leading to sweat and irritation.
- Hot baths in winter.
Helpful parent tips
- Keep a seasonal skin kit by the door: lip balm, sunscreen, moisturizer.
- Label your child’s products for school or camp.
- Rotate hats and gloves so there’s always a dry pair.
When to call a professional
Everyday care supports comfort — it doesn’t diagnose or treat. Contact your pediatrician, dermatologist or healthcare provider if you notice:
- Eczema flares that don’t settle with usual care.
- Frostbite signs: pale, gray, hard or numb skin — seek care promptly.
- Painful, blistering sunburn or signs of heat illness.
Questions parents ask
Why does my child’s eczema get worse in winter?
Cold, dry air and indoor heating pull moisture from the skin. Extra moisturizing helps.
Do kids need sunscreen in winter?
Yes, for outdoor time, especially in snow, which reflects UV rays.
Can I use the same products for my whole family?
Many gentle, fragrance-free cleansers, moisturizers and sunscreens are suitable for the whole family. Avoid giving children products with adult active ingredients.
Is it okay to use a humidifier in my child’s room?
Yes, a cool-mist humidifier can help in dry weather. Clean it regularly according to the instructions to prevent mold and bacteria.
Can children get sunburned on cold days?
Yes. UV rays reach the ground on cloudy and cold days, and snow reflects them. Protect exposed skin during long outdoor play.
