Feeling itchy again? Let's figure out what's actually setting off your eczema.

 

Are you sick of the constant "itch-scratch cycle" that tends to cause an unexpected eczema flare-up? Without a doubt, you're not alone. About 10% of adult Indians suffer from eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. Itchy, dry, and inflamed skin are examples of symptoms that can make day-to-day living difficult and painful.

And just when you think your skin is getting better, you suddenly have another flare-up of eczema. Does that sound familiar? Eczema is particularly difficult to treat because of its unpredictable nature. But the truth is that you may better manage your symptoms and have calmer, healthier skin by knowing and recognizing your own eczema triggers. 

Let's explore the most prevalent eczema causes, the science underlying them, and some useful, doable advice to help avoid flare-ups in this post.

Eczema Causes and Typical Triggers You Must Understand

1.     Environmental Triggers:

You may be surprised to learn how much your environment affects your eczema. Environmental irritants can exacerbate skin inflammation and irritation by boosting IgE antibody activity and stimulating your immune system. Eczema can also be exacerbated by typical asthma triggers, such as smoke, dust, pollen, and pet dander.

●       Air Quality and Pollution

You are continuously exposed to fine particles that can land on your skin if you live in a city with high pollution levels, particularly where PM2.5 levels are high. These particles are small enough to pass through the skin's barrier and cause an immunological reaction that frequently results in eczema flare-ups. According to research, pollution can actually impair the skin's natural defenses, increasing its sensitivity to common irritants.
Tip: When the air quality is bad, try to stay indoors and use an air purifier.

●       Pet dander and dust mites

Dust mites and pet dander are frequent indoor allergens that worsen eczema, often causing flare-ups and increasing skin irritation, even though you can't see them.
Tip: Although dust mites are difficult to totally eradicate, routine cleaning and clutter reduction can help a lot.

2.     Soaps and Cleansers: Unknown Irritants for Sensitive Skin

Many of these cosmetics contain harsh chemicals that deplete the skin's natural oils, weakening the barrier and causing irritation and dryness.

Tip: Continue doing what is best for your skin. Choose mild, fragrance-free cleaners if sensitivity arises.

3.     Food Allergies: Flare-Ups May Be Caused by Your Diet

You're on the correct road if you're wondering if your eczema and diet are related. Some foods are known to cause eczema, particularly in children, but occasionally in adults as well. Growing awareness around gut health shows that probiotics for eczema may help support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve overall skin health, making diet an important factor in managing eczema flare-ups.

           Common Eczema Diet Triggers

           The following food allergies are most commonly associated with eczema:

●      Dairy products (such as milk, cheese, and yoghurt)

●      Eggs

●      Wheat and gluten

●      Soy

●      Nuts (especially peanuts)

It's interesting to note that 30% of kids with eczema have food allergies, which exacerbate their symptoms.

While meals vary from person to person, the above list frequently contains foods that cause eczema reactions in those who are sensitive. Many parents also inquire about foods to avoid with eczema. Parents can discover potential causes of infant eczema by being aware of them.

Tip: Consult a dermatologist. Finding triggers could be aided by an elimination diet.

4.     Microbial Infections: When Germs Make Things Worse

Unfortunately, eczema-prone skin is more susceptible to infections. Let's discuss them. People with eczema are more vulnerable to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections because their skin barrier is weakened.

●       Staphylococcus aureus Infections 

Staphylococcus aureus is present on the skin of about 90% of eczema sufferers. Although it doesn't always create issues, it can cause infection and more severe eczema flare-ups if it gets beyond the skin's barrier.

●      Viral Infections

Certain viruses can lead to major issues for eczema sufferers. For instance, eczema herpeticum, a severe and potentially fatal illness, can be brought on by the herpes simplex virus. It's vital to get medical attention as soon as you see blisters and severe symptoms.

Tip: When using antimicrobial lotions or diluted bleach baths, keep your skin clean and adhere to your doctor's directions.

5.     Psychological Stress: The Mind-Skin Relationship

You've undoubtedly observed that stress complicates all conditions, including eczema. Stress is a significant trigger that is frequently disregarded. Your body creates more cortisol when you're under stress, which can increase inflammation and decrease your skin barrier.

The Vicious Cycle

The difficult aspect is that stress can exacerbate eczema, which can lead to a vicious cycle. Don't worry, though; research indicates that stress-reduction methods can actually be beneficial. 

Tip: Consider adding yoga, meditation, or mindfulness to your practice. Breathing deeply for even a short while can help reduce tension.

6.     Disturbance in Skin pH: Maintaining the Acid Mantle

The pH of your skin is naturally somewhat acidic, usually ranging from 4.5 to 5.5, and this is not an accident. Maintaining a robust, healthy skin barrier requires this acidic pH. However, utilizing items with the incorrect pH (such as alkaline soaps) might upset this equilibrium.

Tip: Avoid using alkaline soaps, which tend to dry up and aggravate your skin; instead, use pH-balance cleansers

7.     Clothing & Fabrics: Comfort Is Crucial

It may surprise you to learn that the clothes you choose might either help or worsen your eczema. While some fabrics are known to irritate your skin, others keep it relaxed and comfy.

Fabrics to Avoid

●      Wool: It’s warm but rough, and scratchiness may cause itching.

●      Synthetic Fabrics: Materials that trap heat and perspiration, such as polyester and nylon, may trigger flare-ups.

Fabrics to Choose

●      100% Cotton: Gentle, soft, and breathable—ideal for skin prone to eczema.

●      Bamboo: A naturally occurring, hypoallergenic fabric that wicks away moisture.

●      Silk: Smooth and light, it reduces friction on sensitive skin.

Clothing Tips

●      Always wash new clothing with a fragrance-free detergent before you wear it.

●      Opt for loose, comfortable outfits to minimize friction and allow your skin to breathe.

●      Cut off tags or choose tag-free garments to prevent skin irritation.

How to Figure Out What’s Triggering Your Eczema

Finding your eczema triggers often takes some trial and error, but it’s a crucial step in keeping flare-ups under control. These tips can help you uncover what may be setting off your symptoms:

1. Keep a Trigger Journal: Record what you eat, the products you use, your surroundings, and your stress levels. Track when flare-ups happen and look for patterns over time.
   
   
2. Patch Testing: A dermatologist can carry out patch tests to detect specific allergens such as metals, fragrances, or preservatives that may be irritating your skin.
   
   
3. Adjust Your Diet: If food allergies are a concern, talk to a healthcare professional about trying an elimination diet. Remove common trigger foods like dairy, eggs, soy, and wheat for a few weeks, then slowly add them back one at a time to see which ones worsen your eczema.
   
   
4. Seek Professional Guidance: Dermatologists can provide tailored advice and testing to help you uncover both obvious and hidden triggers.

By understanding your triggers, you can make smarter choices about your lifestyle, diet, and skincare routine, helping to reduce eczema flare-ups and keep your skin healthier.

If you think you have eczema, visit SkinBB Community, build your profile, and upload a clear photo.  SkinBB dermatologists will help you understand your condition and guide you confidently.

Reference:

1. Barne M, Singh S, Mangal DK, Singh M, Awasthi S, Mahesh PA, et al. Global Asthma Network Phase I, India: Results for allergic rhinitis and eczema in 127,309 children and adults. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology Global [Internet]. 2022 Mar 9;1(2):51–60. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacig.2022.01.004
2. Patient Perspectives: Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema). Pediatric Dermatology [Internet]. 2016 Jan 1;33(1):85–6. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/pde.12810
3. Cartledge N, Chan S. Atopic Dermatitis and Food Allergy: A Paediatric Approach. Current Pediatric Reviews [Internet]. 2018 Jun 13;14(3):171–9. Available from: https://doi.org/10.2174/1573396314666180613083616
4. Ogonowska P, Gilaberte Y, Barańska-Rybak W, Nakonieczna J. Colonization With Staphylococcus aureus in Atopic Dermatitis Patients: Attempts to Reveal the Unknown. Frontiers in Microbiology [Internet]. 2021 Jan 11;11. Available from: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2020.567090