Robert W. Walters, MD, PhD, FAAD, Discusses the Connection Between Stress, Seasonal Changes and Skin Health
As the seasons shift and we transition from the warmth of summer to the cooler months ahead, many individuals will begin to notice changes in their skin. Whether it is a flare-up of eczema or an onset of psoriasis, the impact of environmental factors on skin health is significant. Robert W. Walters, MD, PhD, FAAD, a dermatologist with Hattiesburg Clinic Laurel Dermatology, sheds light on how stress and seasonal changes can influence skin conditions.
In a recent interview with WDAM, Dr. Walters explained how seasonal weather changes affect the skin. “There are basically three main changes in the weather: decreased ultraviolet, decreased humidity, and colder air that contributes to changes in the skin,” Walters said. “It can really bring out a lot of inflammatory conditions.”
“We all experience chapped lips or a little dry skin… We even have a condition we call ‘winter itch,’ which is brought on by winter conditions as a particular pattern of eczema,” Walters added. Along with moisturizer to keep your skin healthy, Walters recommends using a humidifier in living spaces during the cold and dry winter days. “Humidity, skincare practices and stress management all play critical roles in mitigating symptoms. Living in a humid climate like the Southeast can be beneficial for those with eczema, compared to drier regions where the condition is more common.”
As the colder months approach, Walters advises individuals with skin conditions to be prepared. “Eczema is typically more problematic in warmer weather, while conditions like psoriasis may worsen as the UV index decreases. However, it is important to remember that extremes in weather—whether heat or cold—can trigger flare-ups.”
“Skin diseases are often multi-factorial,” Dr. Walters explains. “While genetics play a role, environmental factors and stress are significant triggers. For example, as we move out of summer and receive less ultraviolet light, we often see an increase in psoriasis flare-ups. Similarly, eczema tends to worsen during the transitional months when humidity levels fluctuate.”
Walters emphasizes stress is a two-way street when it comes to skin health. “Not only can stress worsen skin conditions, but the presence of a chronic skin disease is stressful in and of itself.” For individuals managing eczema, recent advancements in treatment offer hope. “We are now seeing breakthroughs in eczema management that were unimaginable just five years ago,” Walters says. “Where topical steroids were once the primary option, today we have effective medications that are both safe and convenient, even for young children.”
For more information on managing skin conditions or to schedule an appointment with Walters, visit our website or call (601) 428-8428.
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About Hattiesburg Clinic Laurel Dermatology:
Hattiesburg Clinic Laurel Dermatology is a full-service dermatology clinic that specializes in the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of adult and pediatric skin disorders. Patients can see providers on a consultant basis. Providers also specialize in various surgical techniques for benign and malignant skin tumors.
Hattiesburg Clinic Laurel Dermatology also offers annual skin screenings. During the screening, the patient’s skin will be examined for suspicious lesions. If lesions are found, our providers will remove them and test for abnormalities. These screenings are a preventive service to help ensure that patients are aware of any risk of skin cancer.
About Hattiesburg Clinic:
Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. More than 60 years after its beginning, the clinic has grown to over 450 physicians and providers, caring for patients in more than 17 counties in South Mississippi. Along with over 2,500 professional staff employees, these physicians and providers come together for a common purpose, to serve the over 500,000 community members who live and work in South Mississippi every day.
