As Hong Kong transitions from the humid heat of summer to the cooler, drier months of autumn and winter, many residents are noticing unwelcome changes in their skin. Seasonal shifts bring more than just a wardrobe update—they trigger flare-ups of eczema and psoriasis for countless individuals. Taiwanese dietitian Gao Minmin recently shared insights on how diet and daily habits can help manage these persistent, itchy skin conditions, offering a roadmap for relief without relying solely on medication.
Understanding the Seasonal Trigger
The drop in temperature and humidity during autumn and winter disrupts the skin’s natural moisture barrier. For those predisposed to eczema or psoriasis, this environmental change can spark inflammation, redness, and intense itching. Dr. Xu Zechang, a registered Chinese medicine practitioner, explains that eczema has both congenital and acquired causes. Some people are born with it, while others develop it later in life—often due to a weakened digestive system that fails to expel internal dampness, creating a “damp-heat” constitution.
Traditional Chinese medicine categorizes eczema into acute and chronic forms. Chronic eczema typically presents as dry, flaky skin with a compromised角质层 (stratum corneum), and it worsens when the weather shifts from humid to arid. Acute eczema, in contrast, is marked by oozing pus, redness, and severe swelling—a condition historically referred to as “浸淫瘡” (immersion sores) in ancient texts like the Yizong Jinjian commissioned by Emperor Qianlong of the Qing dynasty.
10 Foods to Avoid During Flare-Ups
Dietitian Gao Minmin warns that certain foods can exacerbate inflammation and itching. Her list includes unexpected culprits—like white bread—that may aggravate symptoms. Here are the top 10 categories to limit or avoid:
- Refined carbohydrates (white bread, pastries)
- Dairy products (milk, cheese)
- Processed meats (sausages, ham)
- Fried and greasy foods
- Spicy dishes (chili, curry)
- Alcohol and caffeinated drinks
- Seafood (especially shellfish)
- Red meat (beef, lamb)
- High-sugar snacks and desserts
- Cold beverages and iced drinks
Of these, iced drinks are singled out as particularly harmful. According to Dr. Xu, consuming cold beverages drains the spleen’s yang energy, leading to spleen deficiency. This, in turn, causes dampness to accumulate and leak outward, worsening lower-body rashes and promoting blistering or oozing.
7 Soothing Strategies Beyond the Medicine Cabinet
Beyond dietary adjustments, Gao Minmin recommends seven practical methods to calm irritated skin:
- Stay hydrated with warm water or herbal teas to support internal moisture balance.
- Moisturize frequently using fragrance-free creams or natural oils like almond oil.
- Avoid hot showers—limit bathing to 1–2 minutes with lukewarm water.
- Apply oil before bathing to protect severely dry patches from water exposure.
- Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton; avoid wool and synthetics.
- Manage stress through meditation, light exercise, or adequate sleep.
- Use mild, soap-free cleansers only on sweat-prone areas like armpits and groin.
Dr. Xu reinforces the importance of not scrubbing the entire body with soap, as this strips the角质层 and worsens dryness. Instead, target only areas that need cleaning.
Expert Insight: Acupuncture and Herbal Remedies
For those seeking alternatives to steroids, Chinese medicine offers both internal and external solutions. Acute itching can be quickly relieved through acupuncture, which targets inflammation points. Dr. Xu notes that some patients have achieved complete remission by combining herbal treatments with strict dietary discipline.
A simple home remedy involves cooking a congee with corn silk, coix seed, and red adzuki beans—a blend that clears heat and dispels dampness. However, he cautions that this is a supportive measure, not a substitute for professional care during severe episodes.
The Bigger Picture: Long-Term Management
Seasonal skin conditions are not just a surface issue—they reflect deeper imbalances in the body. Registered Chinese medicine practitioners emphasize that treating eczema and psoriasis requires addressing both the root cause (internal imbalance) and the symptoms (external inflammation). Patients are advised to “treat the root during calm periods and the symptoms during flare-ups.”
As Hong Kong’s weather continues to fluctuate, residents can take proactive steps to protect their skin. By adjusting their diet, modifying bathing habits, and seeking personalized treatment from qualified practitioners, many can reduce the frequency and intensity of flare-ups—and enjoy the changing seasons without the torment of incessant itching.
For related reading, check out our articles on traditional Chinese medicine approaches to eczema and how to soothe itchy skin with natural remedies.