How to Recognize and Avoid Common Eczema Triggers

How to Recognize and Avoid Common Eczema Triggers
Jamie Grill/Getty Images
By
Updated on July 16, 2025
by

When you have eczema, you already know that preventing flare-ups requires some vigilance. After all, everyday things — cigarette smoke, pollen, and even your clothing — may cause symptoms, and no two people have identical triggers or reactions.

“Eczema can be exacerbated by increased skin dryness, skin infections, travel to areas with different environments, and reactions to new skin-care products,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a dermatologist at the Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Centers in New York City. “Some people may react more to one trigger than others as a result of genetics, skin-care routines, and variations between each person’s skin microbiome.”

Why Triggers Can Differ for People With Eczema

No human body is exactly the same, and when it comes to eczema flares, what can be triggering for one person may not be for another. Trigger response varies because of internal factors like genetics, and external factors, such as things in the environment, says Gary Goldenberg, MD, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. “This is different for each patient and can change depending on their age or living conditions. I tell patients they have to become detectives, keeping a diary and documenting what they believe may be triggering their flares.”

The specific type of eczema you have can also contribute to what exactly might trigger a flare.

Atopic Dermatitis

This type of eczema is linked to asthma and hay fever.

 Atopic dermatitis may have a genetic component, as it often runs in families.

 Triggers can include dry skin, stress, hot or cold temperatures, infections, and even soap and certain laundry detergents.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis can be triggered by skin contact with an allergen (allergic contact dermatitis).

 This typically causes a rash to appear at the point of contact. For instance, people who have a nickel allergy may experience eczema rashes from their belt, earrings, or other items.
Contact dermatitis can also occur when skin comes in contact with a harsh substance (irritant contact dermatitis); it can affect anyone, and it’s more common than allergic contact dermatitis.

 This is the type of eczema that’s often triggered by chemicals in soaps, fertilizers, and cleaning solvents.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis can occur anywhere on the body; symptoms can be varied and widespread.

 It affects about 11 percent of the population and may be caused by yeast growth, higher levels of the hormone androgen, or excess skin lipids (fats that protect the skin barrier). This type of eczema is typically seen on the scalp, commonly known as dandruff, but it can also appear on the face, ears, chest, and other areas with a lot of oil gland activity. Stress, dry weather, and cold temperatures can exacerbate seborrheic dermatitis.

What Happens When There’s an Eczema Trigger?

When eczema flares up and symptoms become apparent, what’s going on? Simply put, an external or internal trigger kicks the immune system into overdrive, causing inflammation that can lead to itching, scaly skin, swelling, or other symptoms.

 Triggers can range from topical irritants to stress, so it’s important to work with your dermatologist to establish a plan of action to prevent and treat symptoms.

Sometimes, eczema — which is often referred to by the name of the most common type, atopic dermatitis — causes problems besides noticeable skin symptoms. “Eczema is more than just dry skin,” says Asmi Berry, DO, a dermatologist at BHSkin Dermatology in Los Angeles. “It’s a chronic condition that needs daily care, not just during flares. A board-certified dermatologist can help you build a personalized plan that actually works for your skin.”

The Most Common Eczema Triggers

“Most eczema patients have multiple triggers,” says Dr. Goldenberg. He explains that common triggers of eczema can include the following:

  • Irritants including soaps, detergents, and fragrance, as they disrupt the skin’s barrier, leading to inflammation
  • Allergens, including pollen, certain foods, or dust mites
  • Weather changes, from dry to humid or cold to hot
  • Certain fabrics, like wool or synthetic fibers, that irritate the skin
  • Stress: “Whether it's emotional stress or physical stress, such as illness, overall inflammation can increase, triggering an eczema flare,” he says.
  • Infections, including bacterial or viral, can increase inflammation in the body, leading to a flare.
Perspectives
portrait of a person
Yahaira
Eczema Caregiver
“I'm more equipped with the knowledge of eczema and how to handle it. I've learned to have sympathy for others' pain levels, even if you can't physically see it.”
Transcript Available

Tips to Prevent Eczema Symptoms

When it comes to preventing eczema symptoms, there are ways you can change your environment to alleviate flares. While these tips might not completely eliminate eczema from your daily life, they may help lessen the severity of your diagnosis.

“Most patients with eczema will experience flares,” says Goldenberg. Decreasing the frequency and severity of those flares is important. This can be done by consistently using the right skin-care products, managing stress, hydration and diet, and overall well-being.”

1. Protect Against the Cold to Prevent Eczema Symptoms

Temperature changes can play a role in eczema symptoms, especially cold weather. When the temperature drops, eczema symptoms may show up.

 In many people, extreme cold and wind, plus dry, hot indoor air can parch skin, and it’s a common atopic dermatitis trigger.

To prevent the cold from drying your skin, moisturizer and other steps are important. “Cold weather and dry heat can strip moisture from the skin, weakening the barrier and making eczema worse,” says Dr. Berry. “That’s why flares often spike in winter. A thicker cream and a humidifier at home can help offset that dryness.”

Aim for humidity levels of 30 to 50 percent indoors to keep your skin hydrated.

2. Wash Soft Furnishings Regularly to Prevent Dust Mites

Dust mites, the microscopic pests that feed on dead skin cells, don’t just make you sneezy — they can impact eczema, too, especially if you have allergic contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis.

If dust mites are a problem for you, you can minimize your exposure to them in your home. Wash bed linens and curtains weekly in hot water, opt for allergen-proof bedcovers, and thoroughly clean your home to keep it free of clutter and dust.

You may also choose to remove items that can collect dust and harbor mites from your home, such as carpets, upholstered furniture, blinds, and curtains that can’t be laundered. Air purifiers with HEPA filters in rooms you spend a lot of time in will also help clean the air and lower the risk.

3. Make Over Your Wardrobe to Prevent Flares

Have you found that certain pieces of clothing leave you feeling itchy, sweaty, or irritated? If so, it might be time to clean out your closet. Garments made of wool, certain synthetics, or rough materials can be eczema triggers, while loose-fitting cotton clothes are less likely to cause eczema symptoms to flare up.

If you buy new clothes, wash them before the first wear to get rid of dye residue or other potential irritants.

 Tags can irritate your skin, too, so cut them out of clothes if that’s the case for you.

4. Be Choosy About Cleaning Products

Be aware of what’s in the cleaning products you’re using and how they impact your health. Many laundry detergents and soaps contain added fragrance, which can be irritating to those with eczema.

 Make sure you get all the detergent out of your clothes by choosing a double rinse cycle.
Be careful with other household cleansers, too. To prevent eczema flare-ups, look for natural alternatives to products with harsh ingredients, or opt for tried-and-true cleaners like white vinegar or baking soda, which don’t contain added chemicals. Also wear gloves to protect your hands.

5. Sideline Stress to Avoid Eczema Symptoms

Stress can significantly impact anyone’s health, but it’s known to be an especially potent trigger for those with eczema. “Stress triggers inflammation and can weaken the skin barrier, making it more reactive,” says Berry. “I see flares often around big life events, lack of sleep, or burnout.”

While it might not be possible to remove stress from your life, there are techniques to help manage it and lessen the severity of symptoms. “Stress can heighten eczema-related symptoms, such as itch, which can impact one’s quality of life and sleep,” says Dr. Camp. “Addressing stress through exercise, yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, or therapy may help manage eczema-related symptoms.”

6. Stay Out of the Heat to Avoid Itching

Just as cold weather can cause flares, heat can also exacerbate eczema.

 If warmer temperatures leave you feeling itchy or experiencing other symptoms, you’re not alone.
Sweat can be an eczema trigger, thanks to the irritating trace minerals found in perspiration (including zinc, copper, iron, and nickel).

 High levels of humidity can also be an eczema trigger, because they cause more sweating.

With allergic contact dermatitis, certain products can cause a reaction when they’re exposed to sun, like some sunscreens or cosmetics, particularly if they contain the ingredient octocrylene.

 Mineral sunscreens, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are less likely to cause a reaction.
If summer weather seems to be triggering your flares, planting yourself indoors in front of an air-conditioned breeze for a few months is one option. But if you’d like to spend time outside, focus on keeping your body temperature regulated — look for areas of shade, and choose clothing that won’t make you sweat.

7. Get Tested to Identify Allergies

It’s generally a good idea for most people to use gentle and hypoallergenic products. Allergies and atopic dermatitis can often go hand-in-hand.

“Certain tests, such as blood tests or patch testing, can identify allergens in patients,” says Goldenberg.

A patch test can be used to identify allergens.

 During this test, a number of small sticky patches containing various potential allergens (such as latex, fragrances, or preservatives) are applied to the skin. After 48 hours, the patches are removed and the person administering the test will check for any reactions. A positive result may indicate an allergen, though skin tests aren’t always accurate. You and your doctor will use the results to come up with a plan of action.

8. Avoid Pollen During Peak Months

For people with eczema, pollen is a common trigger.

 To lessen the chances pollen will trigger a flare, limit time outdoors when pollen counts are high; keep your windows closed, and consider using air conditioning and HEPA purifiers.

When you come home after being outside, wash your face, hands, and hair — or even take a quick shower — to remove pollen. It can’t hurt to change your clothes.

 Ask your doctor about whether to add allergy medications, such as antihistamines and nasal sprays, to your treatment plan.

9. Check Your Cosmetics Bag for Triggers

Irritating chemicals aren’t limited to household cleaners, so pay attention to what cosmetics you use. It can be challenging to find cosmetics that don’t aggravate eczema. Products containing alcohol, fragrances, lanolin, retinoids, or other common triggers may cause eczema outbreaks in many people.

Carefully check labels: “Unscented” means a fragrance is masked, while “fragrance-free” means none have been added.

 When trying out a new cosmetic, cleanser, or lotion, the National Eczema Association advises testing it on a small patch of skin (such as your wrist or your inner elbow) and watching for any reactions after 48 hours before applying it to larger areas.

10. Banish Pet Dander From Your Home

Pets are some of our best companions, but they can also contribute to eczema flares, especially if you’re sensitive to pet dander. If you have indoor pets, consider keeping them off your furniture and limiting their time in your bedroom. Frequent vacuuming of floors, especially carpeted areas, can help keep pet dander to a minimum. It’s also important to keep your pet regularly bathed and groomed to reduce dander. A HEPA air cleaner may also be helpful.

11. Be Gentle on Your Skin While Bathing (and Care for Your Skin After)

A long, hot bath might be relaxing at the end of the day, but avoid the temptation of this potential atopic dermatitis trigger. “Address dryness by keeping showers and baths short, no longer than ten minutes,” says Camp. “Use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser that is free of dyes and fragrance. On a daily basis apply a hydrating lotion or cream to the skin after a shower when skin is still slightly damp.”

Also, be gentle on your skin when bathing — don’t scrub or rub with a washcloth or loofah, and pat skin with a towel after bathing.

12. Quit Smoking to Prevent Symptoms

We’re all aware that smoking is linked to lung cancer and other health problems, but did you know tobacco smoke can also worsen atopic dermatitis symptoms, even for those who aren’t smokers? A review of people with eczema found that people who smoked, and people who were exposed to secondhand smoke, were more likely to be diagnosed with atopic dermatitis than those who did not. So if you smoke or live with a person who smokes, consider quitting or encouraging them to quit.

Ask for Help

While understanding your triggers is important for managing the condition, experts say it’s also important to work alongside your dermatologist. “Eczema that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments and has a negative impact on the quality of one’s life should be assessed by a board-certified dermatologist for evaluation and treatment,” says Camp.

The Takeaway

  • Eczema is a chronic condition that can be managed by understanding your personal triggers.
  • Triggers can be determined by genetics and environmental factors.
  • Work with a dermatologist to help define your triggers and minimize eczema flares and symptoms in the future.
EDITORIAL SOURCES
Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
Resources
  1. Types of Eczema. National Eczema Association. January 27, 2025.
  2. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Overview. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. February 28, 2023.
  3. Atopic Dermatitis. Johns Hopkins Medicine.
  4. Contact Dermatitis. Mayo Clinic. May 2, 2024.
  5. Contact Dermatitis. Cleveland Clinic. March 30, 2023.
  6. Seborrheic Dermatitis. Cleveland Clinic. May 29, 2020.
  7. What Is Eczema? National Eczema Association. January 27, 2025.
  8. Cold Weather and Eczema. National Eczema Society.
  9. Eczema and the Cold. NIH MedlinePlus Magazine. January 30, 2024.
  10. Humidifiers: Ease Skin, Breathing Symptoms. Mayo Clinic. June 21, 2023.
  11. Litus O et al. House Dust Mite Sensitization Is Associated With Resistance to Topical Therapy in Patients With Contact Dermatitis. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. February 2021.
  12. Bumbacea RS et al. Mite Allergy and Atopic Dermatitis: Is There a Clear Link? (Review). Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine. August 13, 2020.
  13. Dust Mite Allergy. Mayo Clinic. July 31, 2021.
  14. Lambert A. Clothes Make the (Wo)Man. National Eczema Society.
  15. Household Irritants and Eczema. National Eczema Society.
  16. Household Irritants and Eczema. National Eczema Society. October 2021.
  17. What’s Causing My Eczema? 6 Common Triggers. Allergy & Asthma Network. December 2, 2024.
  18. Managing Eczema in the Summer Months. National Eczema Association. May 1, 2025.
  19. Eczema. Nebraska Medicine.
  20. Tanoko M. Yes, Your Sunscreen Might Be Causing Your Eczema to Flare. National Eczema Association. September 19, 2023.
  21. Managing Eczema in Summertime. American Academy of Dermatology Association. August 30, 2021.
  22. Tokura Y et al. What Is “Eczema”? Journal of Dermatology. September 20, 2024.
  23. Allergy Skin Tests. Mayo Clinic. March 26, 2024.
  24. How Can I Find Eczema Triggers Outdoors? American Academy of Dermatology Association.
  25. Allergy Season: What Parents Need to Know About Eczema and Allergies.  Global Parents for Eczema Research. May 20, 2025.
  26. 8 Skincare Ingredients to Avoid if You Have Eczema, According to Dermatologists. National Eczema Association. September 28, 2022.
  27. How Can I Find Eczema Friendly Products? American Academy of Dermatology Association.
  28. Moisturizing for Eczema. National Eczema Association. March 2025.
  29. How to live with allergies and pets. Humane World for Animals. 2025.
  30. Eczema Across the Lifespan: A Comprehensive Review of Current Research and Future Directions. National Institute of Longevity Elderly Sciences. January 2025.
Meet Our Experts
See Our Editorial PolicyMeet Our Health Expert Network
Susan-Bard-bio

Susan Bard, MD

Medical Reviewer
Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Susan Bard, MD, is a clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine and an adjunct clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York City. Her professional interests include Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic and laser procedures, and immunodermatology.

She is a procedural dermatologist with the American Board of Dermatology and a fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery.

Dr. Bard has written numerous book chapters and articles for many prominent peer-reviewed journals, and authored the textbook The Laser Treatment of Vascular Lesions.

See full bio

Alexandra Frost

Author

Alex Frost is a Cincinnati-based journalist who specializes in health, wellness, parenting, and lifestyle writing. Her work has been published by the Washington Post, The Atlantic, Healthline, Health, the Huffington Post, Glamour, and Popular Science, among others.

Alex is also the founder of an editorial marketing agency that offers brand strategy and content collaboration across platforms and projects, and she works as an educator and writing coach to journalists and freelancers at all stages of their careers.

She received a bachelor's degree in mass communications and journalism and a master's degree in teaching. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her five kids in their various activities, and camping.

See full bio
See Our Editorial PolicyMeet Our Health Expert Network