Eczema is a skin condition that causes inflammation. It may appear as a rash with blisters, redness, dryness, and itchiness. According to the National Eczema Association, scientists do not know exactly what causes eczema. Still, they do know a lot about possible eczema triggers and how to treat eczema when it appears.
Eczema Triggers to Avoid
There are a variety of factors that can lead to an eczema outbreak, such as:
- Dry skin, which is one of the most common triggers. If your skin becomes too dry, it can get itchy. The itching leads to scratching, which might turn into an eczema flare-up due to irritation.
- Stress and anxiety can also trigger an eczema flare-up. When we are stressed, our immune system works less effectively because of the hormone cortisol. Too much cortisol in the body can cause inflammation, triggering eczema. Staying calm with meditation and other stress-reduction techniques can help keep your eczema flare-ups under control.
- Chemical and environmental irritants are well-known to cause eczema flare-ups in people who are sensitive. Things like cigarette smoke, fragrances found in perfumes and lotions, nickel items, certain fabric dyes, and some ingredients in cleaning and household products can all trigger eczema.
- Water that’s too hot can cause an eczema flare-up.
- A sensitivity to synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon increases sweat and triggers your eczema.
- Wool is another potential irritant.
Those with eczema tend to have many sensitivities, but they can be unique to the person. You might try a new shampoo or hand soap, for example, and have a reaction. If you have severe eczema, it is better to find specific cleaning and sundry products that are safe for you and stick to using them.
Eczema and Skin Infections
One of the more dangerous consequences of an eczema flare-up is a skin infection. Skin infections can be microbial, viral, or fungal.
Typically, skin infection symptoms depend on the kind of infection. But you can keep an eye for these signs:
- Skin that is redder or darker than usual
- Skin with a yellow or orange tinge
- Liquid-filled pustules
- Crusting
- Signs of ringworm (also called tinea)
- Sores
- Fever
If you get a severe skin infection, you should see a physician as soon as possible. Infections are hard to clear up without medical treatment.
You can prevent skin infections by washing your hands before applying lotions or topical treatments. Use a pump dispenser for your products to avoid bacterial build-up caused by dipping your fingers in the container.
How Can I Treat My Eczema?
The best way to treat your eczema is to keep your skin clean and moisturized. For example, you might use a pH-balanced antimicrobial soap such as McKesson’s Antimicrobial Lotion Soap with Aloe to reduce the risk of skin infection due to scratching. Then, use McKesson’s gentle Hand and Body Moisturizer to minimize the chances of dryness.
Managing your eczema is easy with the right skincare routine; use Simply Medical’s skincare items to keep your skin clear and free of dryness and bacteria, which might cause flare-ups and skin infections.