4 Ways to Avoid Eczema Triggers

Eczema can cause intense itchiness and throbbing sensations that interfere with daily life. While scratching an eczema rash may help momentarily, it can also worsen matters and lead to scarring.

Fortunately, eczema is treatable. Avoiding eczema triggers is one important way to minimize your symptoms. 

At her office in Valencia, California, Dr. Maricar Cutillar-Garcia diagnoses and treats this chronic inflammatory skin condition.

If you live with eczema, consider the following ways to avoid triggers and prevent flare-ups.

1. Pinpoint your personal triggers

While common eczema triggers exist, each person’s needs are unique. To figure out your triggers, keep a log of your symptoms and daily happenings. For example, jot down foods you eat, the climate or weather you’re in, and your activities. Meanwhile, if your eczema symptoms start, worsen, or ease up, note that, too. 

Once you have a record with enough information to potentially show a pattern, whether for a week, a month, or longer, bring your eczema journal to an exam. Dr. Cutillar-Garcia can often recognize easily missed triggers.

2. Moisturize your skin

Dry skin can cause or exacerbate an eczema flare-up. To avoid this, use a quality lotion or moisturizer without harsh chemicals. Ideal creams, lotions, and oils have a short ingredient list and no added fragrance.

Moisturize your skin after baths and showers when it is still damp. This traps more moisture. Using a humidifier in your home can also help hydrate your skin, particularly if you live in a dry climate or use a heater.

3. Manage stress

Stress can kickstart eczema flare-ups or make ongoing symptoms worse. 

When possible, avoid stressful situations. For unavoidable stress, take steps to better manage it. Breathing exercises, meditation, nature walks, gentle yoga, and talking to a supportive loved one or therapist can lower stress responses in your body. Healthy sleep habits, such as keeping routine sleeping and waking times and avoiding digital devices before bed, help alleviate stress, too. 

4. Get customized support

You don’t have to attempt to avoid eczema triggers or alleviate your symptoms on your own. Through a comprehensive exam and discussion of your symptoms, Dr. Cutillar-Garcia can create a personalized program to keep your skin healthy.

She may recommend allergy testing to help you avoid any allergens linked with your symptoms. Other eczema treatments include prescription medication, phototherapy, and injectable biologics. You might also benefit from acupuncture, baths, or medical-grade honey.

To get started with compassionate, personalized eczema care, call our office or book an appointment with Dr. Cutillar-Garcia through our website today.