Unsure if your detergent is to blame? Look at where your flares pop up. “If the eczema tends to be localized to one part of the body, such as your neck or eyelids,” then another culprit might be at fault, Dr. Han says. “But if it’s all over the skin, we should definitely consider the detergent.”
2. Household cleaners
Sorry, #CleanTok fans, but there’s a chance your go-to disinfectant is packed with preservatives and fragrances that’ll make your skin scream, Dr. Han says. That’s especially true if they contain bleach, ammonia, surfactants (a.k.a. ingredients meant to break up dirt, like sulfates), and antibacterial agents, which can wreak havoc on anyone’s skin—let alone skin that’s super vulnerable to begin with. You’ll probably see irritation directly on your hands if your go-to cleaner is fueling your flare-ups, Dr. Han says, or any other spot your skin is coming into contact with a surface that’s cleaned (say, your wrists on your desk as you’re typing at a laptop).
Again, the National Eczema Association’s directory of product faves can be helpful here, but wearing gloves can stop harsh chemicals from reaching your skin as you clean, Dr. Chovatiya says. Avoid rubber gloves (which can sometimes worsen irritation if your skin doesn’t like latex) and opt for unlined, loose-fitting vinyl gloves with a little extra breathability. If sweat triggers your eczema, try wearing thin cotton gloves under the vinyl ones to keep moisture from building up.
3. Hand and dish soap
According to Dr. Chovatiya, many common hand soaps “contain chemical detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate,” which can strip the skin of natural substances (like oils) that keep it hydrated and healthy.4 Without these oils, your skin can quickly lose moisture, which makes it a lot more susceptible to irritation, according to Dr. Han. Lots of soaps contain potentially aggravating fragrances too.
You shouldn’t skip hand washing if you have eczema—after all, it helps protect you from getting sick and spreading germs to others. Instead, make sure you’re sudsing up with a fragrance-free and (ideally) moisturizing soap. Rinsing your hands with cool water can also help, as hot water can sometimes strip away those protective oils too. The second you’re done washing, Dr. Han suggests applying a gentle, fragrance-free hand cream to lock in hydration while your skin is still damp.