Stress.
When a person experiences severe nervous tension, their body begins to release an increased amount of stress hormone. As a result, the skin becomes more vulnerable to external factors and various irritants. Stress also triggers inflammatory processes in the body, which contributes to the appearance of flushing and itching that are among the symptoms of this disease. Often, at such moments, a person unconsciously begins to scratch or rub the skin, which further damages it and significantly worsens their health. Additionally, nervous strain worsens sleep and overall health, which, in turn, weakens the skin’s ability to recover. Therefore, if possible, try to be less nervous, the more stable your emotional state is, the less likely the disease will worsen.
Working in a dusty environment.
Working in a dusty environment can be a significant factor in worsening the condition. Dust contains numerous microparticles and other substances that negatively affect the skin. Tiny particles can enter small cracks in the skin, leading to itching, redness, and even infections. Professions involving construction, workshops, agriculture, or manufacturing pose a higher risk, as these environments are constantly filled with dust and chemical compounds. To reduce the negative effects of dust, it is important to wear protective clothing and use special skin protection products. It is also important to avoid frequent contact with irritants and thoroughly cleanse the skin after work using mild, non-aggressive skincare products.
Taking certain medications.
In some cases, eczema flare-ups may occur due to the intake of certain medications. For example, antibiotics can alter gut microbiota, sometimes leading to increased skin sensitivity and inflammation. To avoid the negative effects of medications on eczema, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any drugs and monitor the skin’s condition during treatment. If you notice unpleasant symptoms after starting a specific medication, discussing possible alternatives with a specialist are recommended.
Increased sweating.
When a person sweats actively, the salt and other substances in sweat remain on the skin and can cause irritation. This is particularly true for people with sensitive skin, as the accumulation of sweat in the folds of the body (for example, in the elbow bends) creates a favorable breeding ground for inflammation. In addition, excessive sweating promotes the growth of fungi, which can lead to infection of damaged skin. To reduce the negative impact of sweating on eczema, it is recommended wearing clothing made from natural fabrics, avoid overheating, shower regularly after physical activity, and use fragrance-free moisturizers to help restore the skin’s barrier function.
Household chemicals.
When you use household chemicals that contain too many chemical components, it can destroy the skin’s natural protective barrier, causing inflammatory reactions. Particularly dangerous is contact with chlorine-based, alkaline, or acidic cleaning agents, as they can cause severe irritation even in people without a predisposition to eczema. If the skin is already damaged, chemical components can penetrate wounds, causing extreme discomfort. To reduce the risk of eczema flare-ups, it is recommended using hypoallergenic and eco-friendly cleaning products, wear protective gloves while cleaning, and thoroughly rinse off any chemical residues from surfaces that come into contact with the skin.
Windy weather.
Cold or dry winds deprive the skin of moisture, which can cause irritation and cracking, which is especially dangerous for people with this disease. Additionally, strong winds can carry dust, dirt, allergens, and other tiny particles that settle on the skin and trigger inflammatory reactions. Therefore, in such weather, it is better to stay at home if possible, and if you still need to go out, make sure that your skin is protected from adverse weather conditions.
In any case, if you have certain symptoms of eczema, it is advisable to use specialized treatments that can help improve your condition, such as Advantan, Aristocort or Bactroban.