Soaps That Trigger Eczema
Health

Soaps That Trigger Eczema

Eczema is a type of atopic dermatitis and an inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become inflamed, scaly, itchy, and develop red rashes. Though there is no cure for eczema yet there are triggers to avoid, such as stress, fragrances, cigarette smoke, chemicals, abrasive fabrics, metals, and certain foods (i.e., citrus fruits) that may cause skin irritation. One of the biggest triggers of eczema is the soap we use. 
Here is a list of soaps to avoid to prevent an eczema flare-up

1. Antibacterial soaps
Antibacterial soaps are not skin-friendly in general. They can cause the skin to become dry and even crack in some cases. It’s best to avoid them if possible. Washing with a fragrance-free soap will do the job. However, if you have to use antibacterial soaps, have some moisturizer nearby. Instead of drying the hands or body with a towel, use a moisturizer. This will help the skin from becoming dried out. The antibacterial soaps that teens are using in the shower can cause eczema in teens

2. Strong fragrance soaps
This may seem a little broad, but it is impossible to say one fragrance over another is going to cause a problem. It is impossible to do allergy tests on soaps with fragrances because manufacturers are not required to divulge what fragrances they use. Fragrances are common in babies and children soaps. If your little one is suffering from pediatric eczema, check to see if their soap has fragrances listed on the label. To help calm the itching, consider using Gold Bond Medicated Anti-Itch Lotion

3. Soaps with cocamidopropyl betaine (from coconut oil)
When you hear coconut oil, you want to think it would be just fine for your skin. However, that may not be the case. Cocamidopropyl Betaine gives you that wonder later when using soap and shampoos. Though it is gentler than other ingredients, it still can cause redness and flakiness. Consider using Dupixent dupilumab, which is an antibody, to help with the problems associated with eczema

4. Soaps with botanical oils
It is hard to think things that are considered natural can cause skin problems, but certain botanical oils can irritate your skin. Soaps that contain vanilla, rose oil, and almond oil can cause skin irritations

5. Soaps with methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone 
Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone are a preservative used since the 1970s. They are also known to be the culprit of atopic dermatitis. Not only are they found in products such as paints and adhesives, baby products, and cosmetics, but are found in soaps, including dishwasher soaps, laundry soaps, and more

6. Soaps with propylene glycol
Propylene glycol is found in many cosmetics and moisturizers. It is even in some treatments for eczema. However, in 2018 it made the list of top skin allergens. If you are using soap with propylene glycol and your skin is itchy and red, this could be the problem. This ingredient is known to cause skin irritations to people who do not even have skin allergies

latest articles