What Causes Eczema Flare-Ups? 

You can help prevent itching by avoiding harsh chemicals or skincare products with strong fragrances. Instead, switch to gentle formulas and products.

When using gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers, apply to damp skin to help lock in moisture.[3]

The weather can have a huge impact on your skin, from seasonal transitions to temperature and humidity changes. What causes an eczema flare-up in the summer can be different from what triggers them in winter. Hot weather can cause you to sweat more, leading to a flare-up. On the other hand, cold temperatures can dry out your skin.[2] 

In the summer, wear lightweight clothes and stay indoors in well-ventilated areas when possible. During winter, use moisturizing products on your dry skin, especially on your hands and face, which are often the most exposed part of your body.[4]

Exercise is a great way to get your body and mind in shape, but when you have eczema exercise can be quite a challenge because of sweating. Sweat from physical activity contains sodium, minerals, and water that may dry out or irritate your skin. In addition, the sudden change in body temperature can cause your skin to itch. To minimize the effect exercise has on your eczema, try these recommendations:5

• Moisturize before and after exercise.
• Wear breathable fabrics that won't irritate your skin.
• Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after to keep hydrated.
• Exercise in well-ventilated spaces and keep a towel on hand for wiping off sweat.
• Use cold compression wraps to cool the skin and calm any itching.
• Take a lukewarm – not hot – shower afterward. 
• Take a break in your exercise routine if you get a flare-up.

Your wardrobe choices can play a role in managing eczema flare-ups. Fabrics like wool, nylon, and polyester are common triggers. You may find that fake fur, leather, lace, velvet, tulle, or even denim triggers a flare-up or irritates your skin, causing it to become itchy. 

Additionally, opt for loose-fitting clothes made of natural fabrics like cotton, silk, and bamboo. These allow the air to flow and could help to reduce any flare-ups.[3]

How you wash your clothes matters too. Avoid laundry products that contain dyes and fragrances. Instead, choose ones that are hypoallergenic and formulated for sensitive skin.[6]

Nickel is one of the biggest triggers for contact dermatitis flare-ups, so jewelry such as watches, rings, and necklaces with a high amount of nickel should be avoided – especially when you sweat. Nickel ions are released when sweat, saliva, and other bodily fluids corrode the metallic item, which could easily irritate the skin and cause an unwanted flare-up.[7]

Certain foods can contribute to eczema flare-ups, which tend to be more apparent in babies and children, but diet can play a role for anyone.[3]

Foods high in nickel could be a trigger. These include oatmeal, beans, lentils, processed meats, chocolate, nuts, seeds, black tea, and canned food. Other foods commonly associated with eczema are eggs, milk, fish, and peanuts.[8]

It’s no secret that stress can have a serious effect on our skin, and those with eczema know this all too well. When we’re anxious or overwhelmed, hormones like adrenaline and cortisol are released in the body, which contributes to inflammation of the skin. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your physical and mental health to help prevent flare-ups.[9]

If you are stressed, try one or more of these techniques to avoid eczema flare-ups: deep breathing, yoga, meditation, practicing a hobby, or taking a walk in nature.[9,10] Before going to bed, try indulging in a lukewarm bath and moisturizing your skin with some nourishing cream afterward to avoid itching.

For some women, eczema flare-ups before menstruation and during pregnancy are surprisingly common. Taking certain hormonal medications such as oral contraceptives or hormone modulators may also cause an outbreak to occur.[11]

Menopause can bring some noticeable changes to skin, too. At around the age of 50, a woman’s skin pH level changes. This change in pH results in more sensitive skin that is more easily irritated. These hormonal changes also means that older women are more likely to develop rashes. Additionally, it’s possible that existing eczema can be exacerbated.[12]