But first, its important to understand what eczema is.
Eczema is most often diagnosed in children, but plenty of adults have it too.
Here, dermatologists break down everything you gotta know.
If you’re wondering what causes eczema, know that it’s a complex answer.
And over time, you may also see some skin discoloration if your eczema is left untreated.
These important nuances can sometimes present challenges when it comes todiagnosing skin conditions in people of color.
What causes eczema?
Dry skinis one of the primary culprits that cause eczema.
Your skin is meant to be a barrier to the outside world.
Allergiesdontcauseeczema, but these two conditions are closely related.
The engine was there all along, but it needs a signal to get started.
You may hear people (including doctors) use the terms interchangeably, but thereisa difference.
Think a harsh cleanser or soap, shampoo, body wash, or lotion.
Harsh cleaning products can also trigger a flare-up.
When it comes to detergents, ensure theyre free of dyes and preservatives.
When youre done cleaning, gently cleanse and moisturize your hands to avoid a flare-up.
Certain preservatives in food products and personal care products can translate into an eczema flare-up.
Dr. Sadeghian calls these mechanical triggers.
Pollution isnt just bad for your lungsit also plays a role in eczema symptoms.
But people with eczema have to since they are often highly allergic to these little pests.
Wearing moisture-wicking fabrics to work out can help mitigate this.
After your workout, take a lukewarm showerhot showers can also trigger a flare-up.
If your heater is on all the time, that could dry out your skin as well.
The kinds of fatty acids you eat can determine how well your skin can lubricate itself.
The idea is that a respiratory infection can cause systemic inflammation that can then trigger eczema.
Why is eczema worse at night for some people?
And if you tend to sweat at night, that can make you itch even more.
Is eczema contagious?
When you see someone scratching, its easy to think they have something that could spread, buteczema isnotcontagious.
Thats because it isnt triggered by a pathogen that spreads from person to person.
