From the Guidelines
Eczema flares can be triggered by various factors, including allergic contact dermatitis, environmental allergens, irritants, stress, food allergies, skin infections, hormonal changes, and certain fabrics. These triggers can exacerbate symptoms, disrupt immune function, and increase inflammation, ultimately affecting the quality of life of individuals with eczema 1.
Possible Triggers for Eczema Flares
Some of the possible triggers for eczema flares include:
- Allergic contact dermatitis, which is a type IV/delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to small environmental chemicals, such as nickel, neomycin, fragrance, formaldehyde, and other preservatives 1
- Environmental allergens like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold
- Irritants such as soaps, detergents, shampoos, disinfectants, and juices from fresh fruits
- Weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, humidity, or dryness
- Stress, which can disrupt immune function and increase inflammation
- Food allergies, particularly to dairy, eggs, nuts, soy, gluten, and certain fruits
- Skin infections, especially those caused by Staphylococcus bacteria
- Hormonal changes during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause
- Certain fabrics like wool or synthetic materials, which can irritate the skin
- Sweat from exercise, which can also provoke symptoms Identifying personal triggers through careful observation or keeping a symptom diary can help manage eczema effectively 1.
Managing Eczema Flares
Avoiding known triggers, maintaining good skin hydration with fragrance-free moisturizers, using gentle cleansers, and following prescribed medication regimens, such as topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors, are essential strategies for preventing and managing flare-ups 1. Additionally, considering the role of sleep and circadian rhythms in the nighttime exacerbation of eczema, as discussed in a review on nocturnal eczema 1, can provide further insights into managing eczema flares.
From the Research
Possible Triggers for Eczema Flare
- There are various factors that can trigger eczema flare-ups, including environmental allergens, irritants, and stress 2
- Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a complex disease that arises from interactions between genes and the environment, and can be triggered by factors such as food and environmental allergens 2
- Conventional therapy for eczema includes avoidance of irritants and potential allergens, as well as continued hydration of the skin with thick emollients 2
- Topical corticosteroids and topical immunomodulators are often used primarily to treat eczema, but can have unwanted side effects and may not be effective for all patients 3
- Emerging treatment options for eczema include novel topical therapies that target unique inflammatory pathways and mechanisms of disease, with a promise of higher efficacy and less harmful side effects 3
Common Triggers
- Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander 2
- Irritants such as soaps, detergents, and fragrances 2
- Stress and emotional factors 2
- Food allergens such as dairy, eggs, and nuts 2
Prevention and Management
- Avoiding triggers and irritants can help prevent eczema flare-ups 2
- Keeping the skin hydrated with thick emollients can help manage eczema symptoms 2
- Topical corticosteroids and topical immunomodulators can be effective in treating eczema, but should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional 3
- Novel topical therapies may offer new treatment options for eczema patients who do not respond to traditional treatments 3