From wool clothing to scented laundry detergent, some common triggers for atopic dermatitis (AD) are relatively easy to avoid. But no matter where you live, you can’t escape the weather.

For many people, the conditions outside — whether it’s the heat of summer or the dry air of winter — can set off the itchy, discolored rash associated with AD. Regardless of what type of weather provokes your symptoms, the right precautions can help you manage. Read on for 12 suggestions.

For any weather

1. Seek treatment:

AD is a complicated disease. Your healthcare provider can help you find the right treatment plan to manage it effectively. Ask them about effective medications that can be applied directly to the skin.

2. Take brief, lukewarm baths:

Dry skin is more prone to symptoms. To keep your skin well hydrated, take a five- to 10-minute bath or shower once a day. Avoid hot water, which can actually lead to more irritation.

3. Moisturize, moisturize:

Apply moisturizer any time your skin feels dry and immediately after a bath or shower. This will help your skin retain moisture.

4. Manage your stress:

Stress is a well-known trigger for AD, so look for ways to reduce or more effectively cope with it. Getting a handle on weather-related triggers may help, too. Research shows that spending time outside can reduce stress.

For Heat

5. Mind what you wear:

Sweating can lead to itching, so dress to keep cool. Experts recommend sticking with loose, cotton clothing. Avoid clothes that fit tightly, as well as those made of wool or synthetic fabrics.

6. Stay cool:

Avoid going out in the heat of the day and try to stay in air-conditioned environments as much as possible. If you do go out, stick to the shade. If you’re heading to the beach, for example, remember to bring the umbrella.

7. Rinse off:

Because sweat can aggravate symptoms, it’s important to get it off your skin quickly. Take a cool shower or rinse yourself as soon as you can after activities that make you sweat.

8. Pay attention to sunscreen:

If you’re going out in the sun, sunscreen is a must, but be sure to test it on a small area of your skin a day earlier. A mineral sunscreen, which contains zinc or titanium oxide, may be less irritating than a chemical-based sunscreen.

For Cold

9. Dress in layers:

To minimize sweating and avoid overheating, layer your clothes so you can easily adjust what you’re wearing as you move between indoors and outdoors.

10. Use a humidifier:

During winter, dry air often causes dry, irritated skin. To return moisture to the air, and your skin, consider setting up a humidifier in your home.

11. Keep the temperature down:

A hot shower may feel great on a cold day, but hot water can aggravate symptoms. Likewise, don’t crank up the thermostat: Indoor heating systems produce dry air, which can lead to more skin irritation.

12. Protect your hands:

Hands can be particularly vulnerable because they are more likely to be exposed to dry air and the cold. To protect them, wear gloves made of fabric that won’t irritate your skin.