Eczema Triggers
You're sitting there twitching. Your elbows are dry. Your chest is itchy. You're reaching down to scratch behind your knees. So you've started treated your skin with vegan, dye free, fragrance free products. You started to do yoga and meditation. You're learning about the humectants and moisturizers. But you're skin is still flaring up. What gives?
What makes Eczema flare up, or what aggregates it?
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to become red, itchy, and inflamed. Many different factors can trigger an eczema flare-up, including:
- Allergens: Eczema sufferers may be allergic to certain foods, substances, such as dust mites, pet dander, or pollen. Coming into contact with these allergens can cause the skin to become irritated and inflamed.
- Irritants: Certain chemicals or irritants (such as harsh soaps or detergents) can cause eczema flare-ups. It's best to use soaps specifically designed for eczema prone skin.
- Stress: Stress can exacerbate any existing skin condition, including eczema. When you're feeling stressed, your body releases hormones that can make the skin more sensitive to irritation.
- Temperature changes: Eczema flare-ups are often triggered by changes in temperature, whether it's too hot or too cold. For some people, sweating can also trigger a flare-up.
If you have eczema, it's important to avoid triggers that aggravate your condition. Many treatments are available that can help to soothe the itchiness and inflammation associated with eczema. Topical corticosteroids are often prescribed for short-term relief, while immunosuppressants may be recommended for long-term management of the condition. Eczema sufferers should also moisturize regularly and avoid harsh soaps or detergents that further irritate the skin.