Eczema is a dermatological condition that causes the skin to become extremely itchy and inflamed in raised scaly patches. Eczema is very common in babies and small children and usually appears on the face and scalp. Adults can suffer from eczema even if they never had it as a child. While there are no known cures, avoiding certain eczema triggers may reduce the symptoms and frequency of eczema flare ups:

1. Stress
Stress is not a cause of eczema, however, it can trigger symptoms of eczema. When we are under stress, our bodies produce a hormone called cortisol. Large amounts of stress will release large amounts of cortisol, which will cause inflammation. It is the inflammation that can cause eczema to flare. To keep your eczema under control, it is necessary to reduce your stress as much as possible. Exercise, rest, a good diet can all help to reduce stress.

2. Smoke
Studies have suggested that children who live in homes with adults that smoke, tend to have higher cases of eczema. However, it is not only children. Smoke tends to be a trigger for adults as well. Though no one knows for sure why that is, it is best to have a smoke-free home if members of the household have eczema.

3. Fragrances
Be careful when using perfumes, lotions, scented soaps, and show gels, because they can be a trigger. This same is true for scented laundry and dish soaps. Scented products tend to irritate sensitive skin, which can cause your eczema to flare. When possible purchase products that are scent-free and hypoallergenic.

4. Seasonal allergies
Seasonal allergy sufferers dread the sneezing, sniffling, and water eyes that occur every year as the temperatures begin to rise. This is also a dreadful time for those who suffer from eczema. The warmer temps and those things that trigger normal seasonal allergies are triggers for eczema sufferers. The symptoms of itchy skin and the appearance of rashes increase at this time of year.

5. Metals
Certain metals can be triggered. Metals such as iron, steel, brass, copper, and lead can all be a trigger. If you believe that it is your jewelry that is causing your skin to react, consider wearing jewelry made from platinum or tantalum. Also, check your home’s water to make sure you are not coming into contact with any metals.

6. Food
Foods that contain ingredients that are considered inflammatory can cause an eczema flare-up. This includes foods that contain dairy, sugar, gluten, red meat, and refined carbohydrates. If you are known to have an allergic reaction to other foods, artificial colors, or ingredients, it is best to continue to stay away from them. In order to determine what foods cause your eczema symptoms to worsen, eliminate one food at a time from your diet. Keeping a food journal is also recommended.