Eczema is a difficult condition to live with and manage. Flare ups can happen for lots of reasons. Understanding flare-ups can help you avoid triggers and better manage your condition. Here are some of the top eczema flare-up causes that we see.
Underlying Causes
Flare-ups happen when the skin barrier is compromised and your overactive immune system reacts to a trigger, either external or internal. There are several biological factors that contribute to inflammation and flare-ups. These include:
- Skin barrier dysfunction- allows moisture to escape easily
- Immune overreaction- causes inflammation
- Environmental exposure- irritates sensitive skin
- Genetic predisposition- higher risk for eczema
- Microbiome imbalance- encourages flare-ups
[Related: Eczema or Psoriasis?]
Common Eczema Triggers
Not everyone experiences the same triggers, but knowing what triggers your eczema allows you to avoid those things and therefore, avoid a flare-up. Some of the most common triggers include:
Allergens- Allergens like pollen, mold, dust mites, pet dander, and nickel provoke a response from the immune system.
Irritants- Harsh ingredients in soaps, perfumes, skin products and more can irritate your skin.
Weather- Lower humidity, extreme heat or cold and sudden temperature shifts can dry out the skin.
Sweat- Working out, wearing tight clothing or hot weather can irritate skin.
Diet- For children, and some adults, certain foods can trigger eczema flare-ups. Common foods include dairy, gluten, eggs, soy, or nuts.
Stress- Emotional stress and anxiety causes your body to release inflammatory chemicals. This worsens eczema.
Hormones- Hormone fluctuations during menstrual cycles, pregnancy or menopause can trigger flare-ups.
Fabrics- Certain synthetic fabrics, and rougher materials like wool can trap heat and cause chafing. Natural, breathable fabric like cotton is gentler.
Top Eczema Treatments
Eczema treatments have advanced in the past few years. Here are the top five treatments.
- Moisturizer Therapy. Daily moisturizing is the foundation of eczema care. Look for ingredients like ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin.
- Topical Steroids. During flare-ups, topical steroids can reduce inflammation, but these should only be used under a dermatologist’s care.
- Non-steroid Prescription Creams. Newer topical treatments include things like JAK inhibitors, PDE4 inhibitors, and topical calcineurin inhibitors. These are great for patients who don’t tolerate steroids well.
- Biologic Medications. Biologic treatments target immune system response. They’re becoming a more popular treatment option. These injectables are given by a dermatologist for moderate to severe eczema.
- Targeted UV light can help chronic eczema patients.
Dermatologist Tips for Choosing Eczema Safe Products
Many products contain harsh ingredients and irritants that can cause flare-ups in eczema patients. Our eczema dermatologist recommends avoiding things like:
- Scented body wash
- Perfumed lotions
- Harsh acne products
- Overly foaming cleansers
- Strong exfoliants
- Antibacterial soaps
- Alcohol based toners
- Sulfates
- Essential oils
Look for products labeled:
- Fragrance free
- Hypoallergenic
- Sensitive skin safe
- Eczema approved
Identifying Personal Eczema Triggers
Since each patient is different, the best way to identify your triggers is by tracking symptoms. This helps reveal patterns and uncover hidden triggers. Keeping an eczema journal can help. Record things like:
- Stress levels
- Weather conditions
- Symptoms
- New products
- Foods eaten
- Sleep quality
Over time, your triggers will become more apparent, and you can work to avoid them.
Eczema Flare-up or Infection?
Having eczema makes you more vulnerable to skin infections like staph, fungal infection, and viral infections. If you are experiencing signs of infection, you should see your dermatologist immediately. This includes things like pain, pus, fever, or a rash that worsens very quickly.
Top Eczema Specials in Northern Virginia
At Reston Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, we are proud to provide personalized, effective treatment that blends cutting edge science and artistry to give you the results you desire. Contact Reston Dermatology and Cosmetic Center today to schedule a consultation.