1. A little extra care for dry, irritated skin

Cold air, wind and indoor heating can all take their toll on your skin. You may notice rough patches, tightness, flaking or increased sensitivity—even once the weather starts to warm up.

For some people, conditions such as eczema and dermatitis can also flare during or following the colder months.

Now is a good time to focus on restoring and supporting your skin barrier. Fragrance-free, hydrating and gentle soap-free washes and cleansers, such as Cetaphil® or QV®, can be a good choice for dry or sensitive skin. Follow with a nourishing moisturiser to help keep your skin hydrated and comfortable as we head into the warmer months.

If your skin continues to be uncomfortable, or you’re struggling to find a product that works for you, talk to the pharmacists at Atara or your doctor. In some circumstances, a compounded topical preparation may be an option when a personalised formulation is clinically appropriate.

2. Relief from that lingering cough

Did you have a cold or respiratory infection during winter that seemed to hang around?

While a cough can sometimes continue after an infection has otherwise cleared, a persistent cough shouldn’t simply be ignored—particularly if it is getting worse or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Your pharmacist can help you understand what may be appropriate for symptom relief and advise whether you should see your doctor.

If your cough persists, don’t just keep treating the symptoms. It’s important to have an ongoing or unexplained cough properly assessed.

3. A plan for seasonal allergies

Spring brings warmer weather, longer days and beautiful blossoms—but for people with seasonal allergies, it can also bring sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, congestion and a runny nose.

If your symptoms return around the same time each year, you may be experiencing seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever.

For some people, starting appropriate treatment before symptoms become severe can help make allergy season much more manageable. The right approach will depend on your symptoms and individual circumstances.

Our pharmacists can help you choose an appropriate treatment for your needs and advise when it’s worth speaking with your doctor.

4. A little more energy

Feeling sluggish after winter is something many people experience. Changes in daylight, disrupted routines, reduced activity and spending more time indoors can all leave you feeling like you’re running on empty.

Before reaching for supplements or energy products, start with the basics.

Regular, nutritious meals and adequate hydration provide an important foundation. Getting some natural light during the day, gradually increasing your activity levels and establishing a relaxing wind-down routine in the evening can also help support your energy and sleep.

If fatigue is persistent, unexplained or interfering with your everyday life, it’s worth discussing it with your doctor. Ongoing tiredness can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue.

5. A medication cabinet check-up

Spring cleaning isn’t just for the cupboards!

The change of season is a great reminder to take a look through your medicine cabinet and make sure everything is still appropriate, in date and stored correctly.

Are there medicines or supplements you no longer use? Are any expired?

And don’t forget the things you might not think of as medicines. Bandages, wound dressings, antiseptics and other first-aid products can also have expiry dates—and there are good reasons for checking them.

Our pharmacists can help you review your medicines, answer any questions you may have and advise on the safe disposal of unwanted or expired medications.

6. A fresh approach to your overall wellbeing

Perhaps the biggest thing your body needs after winter is simply a little attention.

Spring is a great time to revisit the everyday habits that support your health: eating well, staying active, getting enough sleep, managing stress and keeping up with regular healthcare appointments.

It’s also worth asking yourself:

• Are your regular health checks up to date?
• Are your vaccinations up to date?
• Are you taking your medicines as prescribed?
• Are the medicines and health products you’re using still working well for you?
• Do you have any concerns or questions you’ve been putting off?

For some people, a standard commercially available medicine may not be the right fit. In certain circumstances, compounding allows a pharmacist to prepare a medicine in a different strength, dosage form or formulation to meet specific individual needs or accommodate certain allergies, when clinically appropriate.

Your spring health reset

You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle just because the seasons have changed.

Instead, think of spring as a gentle reminder to check in, reset and give yourself a little extra care.

Whether it’s looking after winter-dry skin, getting on top of seasonal allergies, addressing a lingering cough, reviewing your medicines or simply making healthier everyday choices, small changes can make a difference.

And if you’re unsure about something, ask your pharmacist. We’re here to help you make informed decisions about your health and wellbeing—through every season.