Stress Eczema: Why It Happens and How to Deal – Greatist

Stress is bad enough. But a stress + eczema combo pack? The WORST. Skin and stress can go hand-in-hand, but dont worry, fam were here to help you get your glow back.

Heres how stress can trigger eczema, plus some top tips to get you feeling fresh again.

Theres def a direct link between stress and eczema breakouts. Studies have found that stress can screw with the top layer of your skin (aka the epidermis). This can make you more vulnerable to allergens, bacteria, and irritants, and all those things can cause a flare-up.

Stress might also make it harder for your skin to bounce back after a flare-up. This means your symptoms can last longer which can increase your stress which can cause more flare-ups which can increase your stress The vicious cycle of stress and scratching continues.

Eczema isnt a one-size-fits-all kind of skin sitch. Symptoms and triggers can vary from person to person. Here are some common culprits.

Smoking isnt just bad for your lungs. According to a 2016 research review, cigarettes can spark a serious eczema flare-up, whether youre actually smoking or just exposed to secondhand smoke. Some research, including a 2002 report, also suggests that smoking hookah can be a trigger.

Theres also a chance that e-cigarettes or vaping can trigger atopic dermatitis, but we need more research to know for sure.

Folks with dry or sensitive skin should steer clear of chemicals that can cause an eczema flare-up. Ditch shampoos, conditioners, body washes, lotions, and perfumes that contain artificial fragrances or preservatives.

Pro tip: Wear latex-free gloves when using household cleaning chemicals like bleach or ammonia.

Allergic eczema happens when your skin makes contact with an allergen or irritant. Typical triggers include fragrances, preservatives, dyes, metals, and adhesives.

FYI: You might not notice any symptoms for a day or two after contact. This can make it hard to pinpoint the substances youre sensitive to. Thankfully, an allergist can give you a patch test to help figure it out.

A 2010 study found that chronic eczema can be set off by anxiety. So theres a chance your eczema flare-ups are more about anxiety than stress. (And yes, theres a difference between the two.)

Stress is usually the result of external factors like work, school, relationships, or life events. Anxiety is more persistent than stress and can be harder to manage without medication or professional therapy.

The bad news? Eczema can be tough to deal with. The good news? There are lots of effective ways to prevent future flare-ups.

Reducing your stress levels can help stave off scratch attacks and other annoying eczema symptoms. Here are some great ways to relax:

Sometimes your skin just needs a little extra TLC. Heres how to pamper your eczema-prone skin like a pro:

Stress-induced eczema is a tricky beast because you cant always avoid stress. But there are some great ways you can keep your stress (and skin) under control. Avoid your triggers, moisturize, and skip harsh products that can lead to a flare-up.

P.S. When in doubt, talk with a dermatologist.

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Stress Eczema: Why It Happens and How to Deal - Greatist