Extreme weather events are wreaking havoc on more than just our landscapes—they're now taking a toll on our skin, and it's becoming a growing concern. But here's where it gets even more alarming: specialists warn that these wild weather patterns are contributing to a surge in severe skin conditions, leaving many Australians struggling with discomfort and uncertainty. And this is the part most people miss—it's not just about sunburns or rashes; these conditions can be debilitating, affecting daily life in ways you might not expect.
Take Karen Johnson, a 54-year-old resident of Mackay in Far North Queensland, who’s no stranger to the region’s unpredictable climate. But when two tropical cyclones hit her area in quick succession, the hot, humid conditions triggered a skin issue that left her face red, raw, and painfully itchy. *‘I was so embarrassed, I didn’t want to leave the house,’ she recalls. A local GP prescribed a topical steroid cream, which provided temporary relief—until the condition returned with a vengeance as soon as she stopped using it. ‘This time, the cream did nothing,’ she said. After multiple doctors, inconclusive tests, and even a misdiagnosis blaming menopause, Karen was finally diagnosed with eczema, an allergic skin condition.
But here’s the controversial part: while eczema is often linked to individual triggers, experts like Sydney dermatologist Professor Deshan Sebaratnam argue that environmental factors, including extreme weather, are playing a bigger role than ever. ‘Most patients don’t have identifiable triggers,’ he explains. ‘The itch, pain, sleep disruption, and risk of infection can affect not just the individual but their entire family.’ What’s more, Sebaratnam points out that dermatology is often overlooked in Australian medical school curricula, leading to a shortage of specialists. ‘People are turning to ChatGPT or social media for advice, which can spread misinformation,’ he warns. ‘A skin issue deserves the same attention as a heart or liver problem—you wouldn’t ask your neighbor for medical advice.’
New research from the Eczema Association of Australasia highlights the scale of the problem: 30% of Australians now live with allergic diseases, up from 20% in 2007. Eczema, in particular, is on the rise, fueled by environmental pressures, population growth, and more frequent weather extremes. For Karen, relief finally came in the form of a natural cream from Australian brand MooGoo, which allowed her to stop using steroids. Experts emphasize that managing eczema requires a consistent skincare routine, identifying triggers, and lifestyle changes like stress reduction, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet.
But here’s a thought-provoking question: As extreme weather becomes the new normal, should governments and healthcare systems prioritize funding for dermatological research and education? Or is this an issue individuals should tackle on their own? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation that’s just heating up.
