If you know what causes eczema, you also know how to keep it at bay. The unpleasant skin rash can affect a multitude of people, meaning that it’s technically pretty tough to prevent it. Luckily, even though it’s tough, it’s not impossible. Read ahead to discover the main factors which can lead to the apparition of eczema and what you can do to keep it off your skin.
What Causes Eczema and How to Prevent It
Dermatologists are still pretty torn on a consensus regarding a one main cause for eczema. So far, it seems as if there isn’t one and, rather, it’s the result of a series of environmental factors. Also, a lot of times, genes have a say in it as well since eczema proneness can be hereditary. At the very least, getting rid of it isn’t a daunting feat. You can try a myriad of things, from topical products to homemade remedies and even to essential oils.
Dry Skin
Skin dries out constantly. When you leave it untended, it can become brittle and lead to the apparition of eczema.
Prevention: Luckily, you can keep this under control and never get the skin dryness far enough to promote eczema growth. As long as you follow a basic moisturizing routine, you should be good enough.
Irritating Substances
This particular cause, however, is much more difficult to prevent since it can hit out of nowhere and it’s tough to establish which direction irritation could come from. Your skin could be sensitive to soaps, detergents, shampoo, cleaners, and even certain skin products supposed to protect it.
Prevention: You can’t exactly ditch soaps, detergents, and shampoos, so that’s out of question. What you can do, however, is limit the use of some of them. For example, try to use soap for your body as scarcely as possible. And even when you do use it, opt for those with mild formulas like see-through glycerinated soaps. Another good prevention method is going fragrance-free on certain products which don’t necessarily require scents, such as moisturizers.
Hot and Cold
When it’s warm, we obviously tend to sweat more. Sweating is an important factor which could possibly lead to eczema. This also makes wearing too many layers of clothes and exercising possible ‘risky’ circumstances. Alternatively, cold weather favors the drying of the skin. Suddenly going from hot temperatures to cold temperatures can also contribute to the development of eczema.
Prevention: During the cold season, increase the dose of your moisturizers in order to keep dryness at bay. Make sure to not overdress to the point where you can sweat abundantly while doing nothing. Furthermore, when exercising, wear non-synthetic clothes since they could act together with sweat and cause skin irritation. Shower immediately after physical activity.
Other Causes
- Certain foods, such as eggs, dairy, nuts, soy, or wheat can contribute to the likelihood of developing eczema.
- Possible allergens like pollens, pets, or dust mittens.
- Certain types of bacteria and fungi are eczema causing.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, now you know what causes eczema and, thus, the best approaches to take in order to prevent flare ups in the future. Remember to keep your skin hydrated, to wear as many natural clothes as possible, and to opt for products that come in contact with the skin which don’t contain irritants.
