5 Common Eczema Triggers

Dry, itchy red patches of skin are a frequent and unwanted visitor to the 30% of Americans who suffer from eczema. While some grow out of eczema, plenty of adults continue to experience its symptoms, such as bumpy, dry, and swollen skin patches. One way to minimize these bothersome symptoms involves avoiding your triggers.

With her team in Valencia, California, Dr. Maricar Cutillar-Garcia treats eczema in children and adults so your skin can feel more comfortable.

Let’s explore this inflammatory skin condition, including common triggers and ways to find relief.

What causes eczema

Eczema is a chronic and complex skin disease fueled by interactions between your genes and environment. If you have it, you probably have an overactive immune system that triggers inflammation when your skin meets allergens or irritants.

Other risk factors for eczema include:

A family history of allergies or eczema
Having one or more food allergy
Living in a cold, damp climate
Unmanaged or high levels of stress

Hormonal factors may also play a role in whether you develop eczema. People who menstruate often experience flare-ups shortly before their periods.

Common eczema triggers

Eczema affects people differently, but specific triggers commonly cause or worsen its symptoms.

Some of the most common eczema triggers include:

Certain materials, such as wool or synthetic fabric
Environmental allergens, such as pet dander, pollen, or humid air
Foods, such as dairy products, eggs, nuts, soy, or wheat
Perspiring heavily
Soaps

Skin infections can also trigger an eczema flare-up. Sudden emotional stress may make your eczema symptoms worse as well.

How to reduce your eczema symptoms

Learning to better manage or prevent your eczema symptoms can bring lasting emotional and physical relief. In addition to helping you pinpoint your eczema triggers, your personalized care plan from Dr. Cutillar-Garcia may include:

Allergy testing
Moisturizing creams
Immunosuppressants or injectable biologics
Home remedies, such as bleach baths and medical-grade honey
Prescription topical medications like corticosteroids
Phototherapy (light therapy)

Your eczema may also benefit from better managing stress and choosing moderate exercise over highly intense workouts. Any time you perspire, blot away the wetness and change out of your sweaty clothing soon after. Staying well-hydrated and exercising in cool environments can also reduce your symptoms.

Dr. Cutillar-Garcia can recommend specific skin care products that are least likely to cause irritation. For example, soaps that contain aromas and dyes are more likely to exacerbate eczema-prone skin than a gentle, unscented cleanser.

To learn more about eczema triggers or get the treatment or support you need, call our office or book an appointment through our website today.