Ten ways to avoid triggering your eczema

While the causes of eczema are varied and often complex, a good starting point in managing your own, or your infant or child’s eczema, is being aware of some common environmental culprits and avoiding things that can trigger an immune system response.

Below we’ve shared some tips on how to avoid common household eczema triggers – and how to gain lasting skin relief with Atopis Dry Itchy Relief Cream.

Ten ways to avoid triggering your eczema

Eczema is an incredibly common skin concern that affects as many as 20% of New Zealand children and a large number of Kiwi adults as well.

There are seven acknowledged types of eczema and all cause varying degrees of skin discomfort including itching, dryness, and redness.

While the exact causes of eczema are unknown, there are some common lifestyle and dietary factors that can trigger irritation or aggravate your symptoms. Here we’ve outlined some tips to avoid eczema triggers:

1. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free products – both for your skin and your home. Eco products tend to be gentler and are also better for the environment, win!

2. Reduce stress by getting plenty of sleep, as well as incorporating practises such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and kindness. Stress is a major player in skin issues so addressing this one is key.

3. Stay hydrated to ensure your skin barrier is not weakened.

4. Speak to a health professional who can guide you on how to balance your hormones if you think they could be a factor.

5. Sleep in natural fibres such as cotton or linen – this avoids sweating, causing irritation. Heated blankets should also be avoided.

6. Consider investing in a humidifier (for overly dry conditions) or dehumidifier (for overly humid conditions) this can help to create the ideal environment for your skin.

7. Ensure your house is well ventilated – make sure there is plenty of air-flow to keep the environment cool.

8. Immediately treat any mould in your environment and keep on top of the dusting.

9. Vacuum regularly – this cleans up any pet hair and reduces the chance of allergens lingering in your home.

10. Always use natural cleaning sprays and products. Removal of the good bacteria by overcleaning and using anti-bacterial sprays in your home will result in a build-up of allergens and potentially bad bacteria.