In some instances, there is no reason why eczema flares up. However, some flare ups may be triggered or made worse by irritants. Avoiding these triggers and irritants may help you to prevent future eczema flare ups of symptoms. Use the Loma Lux® Eczema check list to track these triggers – keep a record and look for patterns.
Take control by monitoring:
Aeroallergens:
Allergens in the air are dust mites, pollens, molds and dander from animals. In particular, house dust mites can
trigger eczema symptoms. While there is no way to completely rid yourself of dust mites, regular cleaning,
encasing mattresses/pillows in special dust proof covers, removing bedroom carpeting and frequent hot water
washing of bed linens will help.
Cigarette Smoke/Air Fresheners/Perfume:
Can irritate the skin.
Clothing:
Try to stay away from fabrics that can irritate your skin – like wool. Cotton and smooth feeling man- made fabrics are more soothing to the skin.
Cold, Dry Air with Low Humidity:
Consider using a humidifier in your home during cold weather.
Colds & Flu:
Inflammation from a cold or flu can cause inflammation, triggering eczema.
Dust/Sand:
Can irritate the skin.
Food Allergies:
Your doctor can test you for food allergies that can trigger eczema. Immediate food allergy occurs within 2 hours of eating a trigger food. A common symptom is redness, swelling and irritation around the mouth with accompanying abdominal pain. A delayed food allergy occurs 6 – 24 hours after eating a trigger food, with symptoms of worsening eczema and abdominal pain occurring.
In general, problematic foods are: citrus, corn, dairy products (milk & cheese), eggs, fish, shellfish, soy, tomatoes, and wheat.
Harsh Soaps/Detergents:
Use fragrance free, dye free, low pH products designed for sensitive skin to avoid irritation. After clothes are washed in detergent, rinse them well. Fabric conditioners can also irritate skin.
Hormones:
When body hormones increase or decrease, some women experience flares.
Irritating Chemicals:
Certain ingredients/preservatives in skin care products can irritate the skin. Cleaning solvents and even rubber or plastic gloves can irritate. Wear cotton lined gloves while cleaning to protect you from harmful chemicals. Air out dry cleaned items for at least 24 hours prior to wearing.
Juice Contact:
The juice from fresh fruits, meats and vegetables can irritate your skin.
Pet Dander & Fur:
Can irritate the skin.
Refined Foods/Sugar:
These foods contribute to body inflammation, triggering eczema flares.
Rubbing/Friction Against the Skin:
Triggers flares. Avoid tight clothing.
Scratching the Skin:
People tend to itch more when at rest or idle. While it is easier said than done, keep yourself and your hands busy to prevent the damage scratching can do. Wear gloves at night to help prevent scratching. Keep fingernails trimmed.
Stress/Nervousness/Anxiety/Depression:
Under stress, the body’s stress hormones cause inflammation that irritates the skin. Practice stress management and relaxation techniques. Make your body healthy with regular exercise. Develop a support network of friends and family.
Sunburns:
Be sure to wear a sunscreen when outdoors, as sunburn inflames the skin.
Sweating:
Make sure to shower as soon as possible after stress and physical activity to remove sweat. Also, avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon and rayon, which can make you sweaty.
Traffic Related Air Pollution:
Living in metropolitan areas can trigger eczema.