How to Identify Your Eczema Triggers

Eczema flares can feel random, but your body typically responds to a specific concern. Your triggers are trying to tell you something. Understanding what sets off your eczema symptoms is the first step towards finding relief.

You’re finally getting your eczema under control, and then, there’s another flare. What keeps causing those itchy, inflamed patches of skin?

Ruben Moreno, MD, and the Florida Dermatology Associates team specialize in diagnosing and treating eczema. We offer effective treatments and personalized guidance for maintaining healthy, comfortable skin.

It’s not just a random rash; specific factors in your environment, routine, or even diet can lead to frustrating flares. Identifying and avoiding your eczema triggers can help reduce those unexpected reactions.

The usual suspects: common eczema triggers

Figuring out what sets off your eczema can sometimes feel like detective work, but it’s key to getting your skin under control.

Start by looking for clues in your habits and surroundings that might irritate your skin. For instance, did you begin using a new soap, lotion, or laundry detergent recently? Irritants in these everyday products are common triggers for eczema.

Beyond direct skin irritants, a variety of other factors can also contribute to eczema flares, including:

Stress and anxiety

When you’re experiencing stress or anxiety, your body releases hormones that disrupt your skin barrier, making your skin more susceptible to irritants and prone to dryness — the perfect combination for an eczema flare.

Your environment

Shifts in temperature or humidity levels can affect your skin’s moisture levels and worsen symptoms. You might also notice reactions when exposed to airborne allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites, or mold.

Food allergies and sensitivities

Food sensitivities can play a role in eczema, especially for children. Besides common food allergy culprits like dairy, eggs, nuts, and gluten, some people find that processed or sugary foods contribute to inflammation and trigger eczema.

Proactive tips for preventing flare-ups

Once you identify your triggers, you can minimize their impact by taking proactive steps to avoid them. Here are our tips for keeping your skin calm and comfortable when you have eczema:

Create a gentle skincare routine

Be sure to read the labels when shopping for skincare, and choose fragrance-free products designed for sensitive skin or those with eczema.

When introducing new products, don’t try more than one at a time, and wait a few days to see how your skin reacts. Our team can provide personalized advice and recommendations if you’re unsure what to look for.

Avoid hot showers

Hot water can damage the top layer of skin, leaving it feeling dry and tight. Opt for cooler, gentler temperatures for showers, baths, and washing your hands.

Manage stress effectively

Less stress on your mind equals less stress on your skin. Getting enough sleep and exercising regularly helps regulate the body’s stress response, potentially reducing the likelihood of flares. Incorporating mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing practices can reduce stress levels.

Keep an eye on your diet

If you suspect a link between your diet and eczema, keeping a food diary (logging what you eat and when you have symptoms) can help track potential triggers. While food sensitivities aren’t a primary cause of eczema for everyone, eating a balanced diet of whole foods can promote overall skin health.

Adjust your environment

Little things around your home might be triggering your eczema. Regularly washing your bedding and vacuuming carpets reduces dust and other particles that can irritate sensitive skin. If the air in your home makes your skin feel dry, a humidifier may add some much-needed moisture.

Seek professional guidance

There’s no cure for eczema; however, our team provides expert care and guidance to manage your symptoms. We may recommend prescription-strength topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and itching. Treatment with controlled doses of ultraviolet (UV) light, known as light therapy, can also calm the skin.

If you’re one of more than 31 million Americans with eczema, the Florida Dermatology Associates team is here for you. Book an appointment online or by phone to find relief from eczema flare-ups.