Eczema Triggers What Causes Flares and How to Avoid Them

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes itching, inflammation, and dryness. One of the biggest challenges in managing eczema is identifying and avoiding your personal triggers the environmental or internal factors that lead to flares or worsening of symptoms.

While no two people experience eczema the same way, there are several common causes and triggers you can watch for.

What Are Eczema Triggers?

Eczema triggers are anything that causes a flare or worsening of symptoms. For some, flares are immediate. For others, they build over hours or days. Triggers vary widely, but often include:

• Allergens (pollen, pet dander, dust mites)

• Irritants (soaps, detergents, fabrics)

• Certain foods

• Weather extremes

• Stress and hormones

• Infections

• Dry skin

Avoiding your personal triggers won’t necessarily eliminate eczema, but it can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of flares.

Common Eczema Triggers

1. Irritants and Contact Allergens

Certain everyday items can irritate your skin or cause allergic reactions:

• Wool or synthetic fabrics

• Scented soaps and shampoos

• Bubble baths and baby wipes

• Household cleaners and disinfectants

• Metals like nickel

• Latex or adhesive bandages

• Perfumes and preservatives

For many people, the flare appears where the irritant touched the skin this is often diagnosed as contact dermatitis, a form of eczema.

2. Inhaled Allergens

Airborne substances can trigger eczema in those who are sensitive:

• Dust mites

• Pet dander (cats and dogs)

• Mold

• Seasonal pollen

• Cockroach particles

• Cigarette smoke

Using HEPA filters and keeping your home clean can help reduce exposure.

3. Climate and Temperature

Weather extremes can trigger or worsen eczema:

• Winter: Cold, dry air can lead to dry skin and flare-ups.

• Summer: Heat, sweat, and sun exposure can also worsen symptoms.

Tips:

• Use a humidifier in dry environments.

• Keep cool and dry in hot weather.

• Avoid long, hot showers that strip moisture from your skin.

4. Food Sensitivities

Some people notice their eczema worsens after eating certain foods, especially:

• Cow’s milk

• Eggs

• Soy

• Peanuts or tree nuts

• Wheat

• Shellfish or fish

These triggers are more common in children than adults. Consider keeping a food diary and working with a healthcare provider before eliminating foods.

5. Infections

Skin infections can both worsen eczema and occur more frequently due to broken skin. Common culprits:

• Staph bacteria

• Herpes simplex virus (cold sores)

• Yeast infections

• Molluscum contagiosum

• COVID-19

Seek medical treatment if you notice warm, red, or oozing skin signs of a possible infection.

6. Hormonal Changes

Hormone fluctuations can influence eczema flares, especially in women:

• Before menstruation

• During pregnancy

• Menopause

These flares may be due to changes in estrogen and progesterone affecting immune responses.

7. Stress

Psychological stress is a well-known eczema trigger. High-stress periods may lead to:

• Flares

• Poor sleep

• Reduced immune resilience

Stress management techniques like meditation, therapy, or regular physical activity can make a difference.

Note: People with PTSD or chronic stress may have impaired skin barrier function, which can increase eczema risk.

8. Dry Skin

Dryness itself may not be a trigger but is a core symptom that can worsen flares.

Use the "three-minute rule":
Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of bathing to lock in hydration.

How to Identify Your Personal Triggers

Everyone's eczema triggers are different. To identify yours:

• Track symptoms using a journal or app

• Eliminate one potential trigger at a time (e.g., a detergent or food)

• Monitor symptom changes over a few days or weeks

• Work with an allergist or dermatologist to evaluate patterns

Allergy testing options include:

• Skin prick test: Checks for reactions to common allergens.

• IgE blood test: Measures allergy-related antibodies.

• Food challenge: Done under medical supervision to confirm food-related eczema flares.

Remember, a positive allergy test doesn’t always mean that item is triggering your eczema.

Reducing Exposure to Triggers

Cleaning and Personal Care Products

• Choose unscented, hypoallergenic items

• Avoid products with alcohol, dyes, or preservatives

• Try baking soda or vinegar-based cleaners

Clothing

• Avoid wool and synthetic fabrics

• Opt for soft cotton, bamboo, or silk

• Wash new clothes before wearing

Home Environment

• Use a HEPA air purifier

• Change HVAC filters regularly

• Encase mattresses and pillows with dust-mite covers

• Bathe pets and vacuum frequently

Food

• Keep a food and symptom diary

• Work with a healthcare provider before trying elimination diets

• Don’t restrict your diet unnecessarily

Summary

Eczema flares are often triggered by a mix of environmental, immune, hormonal, and emotional factors. Learning your own personal triggers and minimizing your exposure can help you reduce flare-ups and improve your quality of life.

• Keep skin moisturized

• Avoid known irritants and allergens

• Stay hydrated

• Manage stress

• Track symptoms over time

With time, patience, and the right support, it’s possible to find a care routine that keeps your eczema manageable.

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