Living With Eczema? Here Are 10 Things You Need to Avoid

Living with eczema is a daily battle that many people face. The itching, redness, and swelling can make life uncomfortable. But if you are armed with the right knowledge, you can lead a better life despite this persistent skin condition.

Here, we'll explore ten things you should avoid to keep your skin healthy when dealing with eczema.

1. Harsh Soaps and Cleansers

Harsh soaps and cleansers can be particularly detrimental for those with eczema. They remove the natural oils that protect the skin. This can cause dryness, leading to irritation and redness. It may trigger a flare-up for eczema sufferers, making the condition worse. Switching to milder products can be an essential step in skincare.

What to Use Instead?

• Choose gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and soaps that are made for sensitive skin.
• Look for products labeled as hypoallergenic.
• Use them consistently to maintain skin moisture.
• Consult a dermatologist if you're unsure which products suit you.

2. Stress

Stress has physical effects on the body, including inflammation, which can trigger eczema symptoms. It's more than just an emotional problem; it's a physiological one that can cause visible issues with the skin. Managing stress is, therefore, not only essential for mental well-being but also for skin health.

How to Manage?

• Embrace soothing practices like mindfulness or taking deep breaths.
• Indulge in activities and hobbies that promote happiness and serenity.
• Keep a healthy work-life balance to avoid unnecessary stress.
• Get enough sleep and maintain a routine.
• If stress continues to be a problem, consider seeking professional help, such as therapy.

3. Extreme Weather Conditions

Extreme weather, both hot and cold, can exacerbate eczema. Hot weather may cause sweating, which irritates the skin, while cold weather can dry it out. Protecting your skin from harsh weather conditions is crucial in managing eczema.

How to Protect Your Skin?

• During the colder months, utilize a humidifier to introduce more moisture into your surroundings.
• In the warmer season, seek shade and use your air conditioner sparingly.
• Wear layered clothing to adjust to fluctuating temperatures.
• Always moisturize your skin to keep it hydrated.
• Consult a healthcare provider for suitable moisturizers based on your skin type.

4. Scratching

Scratching eczema can cause more harm than good. It might feel satisfying momentarily, but it damages the skin's surface, potentially leading to infections. Scratching can worsen the redness, swelling, and itching, prolonging healing.

How to Control?

• Keep your nails short and smooth to minimize damage from scratching.
• If itching persists, apply a cool compress to the affected area.
• Over-the-counter creams with anti-itch properties can be beneficial.
• Wear gloves at night if scratching during sleep is a concern.

5. Certain Fabrics

Fabrics like wool or synthetics can irritate sensitive skin. The texture and quality of the fabric can cause friction and trigger an eczema flare-up. Knowing what to wear is an essential aspect of managing this condition.

What to Wear?

• Choose clothing made from gentle, airy materials such as cotton.
• Ensure to wash newly purchased clothes prior to wearing them to eliminate any possible irritants.
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing that may cause friction.
• Choose appropriate clothing for the weather, as overheating or overcooling can irritate the skin.
• Be mindful of laundry detergents, selecting ones free of fragrances and dyes.

6. Allergens

Allergens commonly found in everyday life, such as dust mites, pollen, and the dander of household pets, may agitate eczema conditions. Specific allergies that cause flare-ups are not uncommon among people living with eczema. The vigilance and management of these allergenic substances are central to the continuous care of skin health.

How to Minimize Exposure?

• Make use of covers that can prevent allergens on your mattresses and pillows.
• Keep a routine of vacuuming, preferably with a machine with a HEPA filter.
• Keep pets out of the bedroom if you're allergic.
• Maintain a clean living environment, free of dust and clutter.

7. Excessive Bathing

While bathing cleanses the skin, excessive washing can dry it out. Hot water, in particular, removes natural oils more quickly. For those with eczema, this can lead to flare-ups, making a careful approach to bathing necessary.

What to Do Instead?

• Limit showers and baths to 10-15 minutes, using warm, not hot, water.
• Use mild, fragrance-free body wash or soap.
• When drying off, lightly pat your skin instead of rubbing it.
• Apply a suitable moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock in moisture.

8. Certain Foods

Some individuals with eczema may have food triggers. This means certain foods might cause or worsen symptoms. Identifying these triggers can lead to a more comfortable life with eczema.

How to Identify?

• Consider journaling your daily meals and noting any skin reactions to detect possible food triggers.
• Eliminate suspected trigger foods one by one to identify the culprit. Reintroduce foods gradually to confirm the trigger.
• Collaborate with a healthcare provider or a dietitian to develop a plan tailored to your needs.

9. Ignoring Medical Advice

Self-diagnosing and treating eczema without professional medical advice can lead to complications. Each person's eczema is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. Proper medical guidance is essential.

How to Handle?

• Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
• Follow prescribed treatments and medications diligently.
• Let your healthcare professional know about any symptom changes or newly discovered.

10. Overuse of Perfumes and Fragrances

Many fragrances and perfumes are formulated with chemicals that have the potential to aggravate the skin, a concern that's especially pronounced for those living with eczema.

Though the aroma may be delightful, it might cause a negative reaction for delicate skin users. Reducing or even abstaining from these products is often an indispensable step toward ensuring the well-being of your skin.

What to Do Instead?

• Choose personal care products free of fragrances, such as lotions and deodorants, to prevent irritation.
• If you're fond of wearing perfume, consider spraying it on your clothing instead of your skin.
• Pay close attention to labels, ensuring your use is compatible with sensitive skin.
• You may also explore natural scents like essential oils, but perform a patch test beforehand.

The Road to Relief

Navigating life with eczema calls for awareness, dedication, and thoughtful care. Recognizing and sidestepping these ten critical triggers will ease your daily journey with this condition. Every choice, whether selecting the appropriate soap or handling stress, enhances your skin's health. It's a path that requires consistent effort, but a life without itching and discomfort is achievable with the right guidance.

MJ Brioso, Editorial Staff

MJ Brioso is a content writer who takes pleasure in creating compelling and informative articles about health and lifestyle. During her free time, you'll likely find her indulging in shopping or passionately exploring the world of fragrances.