Atlanta AC: Drafty Homes Inflaming Youth Eczema?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 11, 2026

The relentless Atlanta sun can be brutal, but the real enemy for many families isn’t the heat outside, it’s the dryness inside. Air conditioning, a necessity for surviving those sweltering Georgia summers, sucks the moisture right out of the air, creating an indoor desert that can wreak havoc on sensitive skin, especially for children with eczema. We’re not just talking about a little dry skin; we’re talking about itchy, inflamed, and painful eczema flare-ups that can disrupt sleep and impact a child’s quality of life.

This isn’t just a theoretical problem; it’s a daily reality for countless Atlanta families.

So, how do you fight back against the AC-induced dryness and protect your child’s skin? It’s not about ditching the AC altogether (let’s be realistic, that’s not an option), but about strategically managing your indoor environment and implementing a targeted skincare routine.

First, you need to know your enemy: the level of dryness in your home. Forget guessing; you need data.

DIY Home Humidity Monitoring in Atlanta:

Don’t rely on vague feelings of dryness. Invest in a hygrometer. You can find affordable digital hygrometers at most hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s in the Atlanta area (locations in Buckhead, Midtown, and beyond). Aim for a humidity level between 30-50%. Anything lower, and you’re in the danger zone for eczema flare-ups.

Placement is key: Don’t just stick the hygrometer anywhere. Place it in your child’s bedroom, away from direct sunlight and vents. This will give you the most accurate reading of the air they’re breathing all night.
Track the trends: Don’t just take one reading. Monitor the humidity levels throughout the day, especially when the AC is running. This will help you understand how your AC usage impacts the humidity in your home.
Calibrate your hygrometer: Some hygrometers can be inaccurate. You can calibrate them using the salt test. Place a tablespoon of salt in a sealed container with a wet cloth. After several hours, the hygrometer should read around 75%. If it doesn’t, adjust accordingly.

Once you know your humidity levels, you can take steps to increase them.

Dermatologist-Recommended Moisturizing Routines for Atlanta’s Climate:

Atlanta’s climate is unique. It’s humid in the summer, but the AC negates that indoors. It’s also relatively mild in the winter, but indoor heating can still dry out the air. This means you need a year-round moisturizing strategy, adjusted for the seasons.

The “Soak and Seal” Method: This is the gold standard for eczema management. After a lukewarm bath (not hot!), gently pat your child’s skin dry, leaving it slightly damp. Immediately apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer. This traps the moisture in the skin.
Choose the right moisturizer: Ointments are generally better than creams or lotions for eczema because they have a higher oil content. Look for products containing petrolatum, shea butter, or ceramides. Avoid products with fragrances, dyes, or parabens, which can irritate sensitive skin. CeraVe and Aquaphor are often recommended by dermatologists.
Moisturize frequently: Don’t just moisturize once a day. Apply moisturizer at least twice a day, and more often if your child’s skin feels dry. Carry a small tube of moisturizer with you and apply it whenever needed.
Consider a humidifier: A humidifier can add moisture back into the air, especially in your child’s bedroom. Use distilled water to prevent mineral buildup and clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mold growth. A cool-mist humidifier is generally recommended for children.
Sunscreen is crucial: Even on cloudy days, protect your child’s skin from the sun with a broad-spectrum, fragrance-free sunscreen. Sunburn can worsen eczema.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Many parents unknowingly make mistakes that can exacerbate their child’s eczema.

Hot baths: Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils, making it drier and more prone to irritation. Stick to lukewarm baths.
Harsh soaps: Many soaps contain harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
Scratching: Scratching can break the skin and lead to infection. Keep your child’s nails short and consider using cotton gloves at night to prevent scratching while they sleep.
Ignoring triggers: Eczema can be triggered by allergens, irritants, and stress. Identify and avoid your child’s triggers. Common triggers include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, certain foods, and harsh chemicals.
Over-reliance on topical steroids: While topical steroids can be effective for treating eczema flare-ups, they should be used sparingly and under the guidance of a dermatologist. Overuse can lead to side effects such as skin thinning and discoloration.

Local Resources for Financial Assistance with Home Weatherization Upgrades:

Improving your home’s weatherization can help reduce the need for AC and maintain more consistent humidity levels. However, these upgrades can be expensive. Fortunately, there are resources available to Atlanta residents.

Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA): GEFA offers various loan programs for energy efficiency upgrades, including weatherization. Check their website for eligibility requirements and application information.
Atlanta Gas Light Weatherization Assistance Program: This program provides free weatherization services to income-eligible homeowners. Services may include insulation, air sealing, and furnace repair or replacement.
Community Action Agencies: Local community action agencies, such as the Atlanta Community Food Bank, often offer weatherization assistance programs. Contact your local agency to see if you qualify.
Energy Efficiency Rebates: Georgia Power and Atlanta Gas Light offer rebates for energy-efficient appliances and home improvements. Check their websites for current offers.

Specific Challenges in Atlanta:

Atlanta’s older housing stock can present unique challenges. Many older homes are poorly insulated, making it difficult to maintain consistent temperatures and humidity levels.

Lead paint: If you live in an older home, be aware of the potential for lead paint. Lead paint can be a health hazard, especially for children. If you suspect lead paint, have your home tested and take steps to mitigate the risk.
Mold: Atlanta’s humid climate can also promote mold growth. Mold can trigger eczema flare-ups and other health problems. Address any water leaks promptly and ensure proper ventilation in your home.
Pollen: Atlanta is known for its high pollen counts, especially in the spring. Pollen can trigger eczema flare-ups. Keep windows closed during peak pollen season and use an air purifier with a HEPA filter.

Beyond the Basics:

Don’t underestimate the power of a supportive community. Connect with other Atlanta parents who have children with eczema. Share tips, resources, and support. The National Eczema Association has local chapters and online forums where you can connect with other families.

Consider consulting with a dermatologist who specializes in eczema. They can help you develop a personalized treatment plan for your child. Look for dermatologists in the Atlanta area who have experience treating eczema in children.

Managing eczema is an ongoing process, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can help your child thrive, even in the face of Atlanta’s challenging climate. Don’t give up; your child’s comfort and well-being are worth the effort. Remember, you’re not alone in this fight.