Eczema triggers can be different for everyone and can be brought on by many different factors. However, in most cases, triggers often come from stress, allergens, and your environment, according to the National Eczema Association (NEA).
“People who have eczema are much more susceptible to irritation from things that they can commonly come into contact with, which could be as simple as water,” says Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine and dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.
For many people living with eczema, the common triggers that are causing them problems are often the ones lurking in their homes. The good news, however, is that there are several ways to keep these potential triggers to a minimum in every room of your house. Keep reading for tips on eczema proofing your house.
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Check the temperature in your house
Before you make your way to the individual rooms in your house, make a point to be mindful of the temperature and dryness in your home. If you have eczema, you may be sensitive to dry air and hot temperatures.
You should keep the temperature in your home consistent throughout the winter and summer, but remember to not go overboard.
“Winter is a very common time for people to experience dryness, not just because of the cold weather outside, but also because when we’re inside and we put on the high heat, that can actually be drying on the skin,” says Dr. Garshick.
If your house gets too dry, a humidifier may help. Although there is currently no scientific evidence that it can help people with eczema, according to the National Eczema Association (NEA), it can bring the moisture back into your home.
Garshick suggests keeping the humidity level at about 50 percent and the temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Tips for eczema proofing your home room by room
Bedroom & Closet
In your bedroom potential triggers can mostly be found on your bed. Mattresses and bedsheets can collect dust mites that are hard to spot and can irritate your skin. You can cut down on dust by investing in a dust-mite proof cover and regularly washing your sheets in hot water. Additionally, remember to choose white or undyed sheets and prewash new sheets before using them.
When washing your bedding and clothes, stay away from heavy-duty detergents that contain harsh chemicals. Garshick suggests opting for a gentle detergent that is free of dyes and scents.
In addition, take a look at the clothes in your closet. Do you have any items that could be triggering your eczema? Fabrics such as wool and synthetic fabrics can cause skin irritation. Opt for cotton clothes whenever possible.
Kitchen
If possible, it is best to avoid harsh cleaners altogether when cleaning parts of your kitchen/home. There are natural products available that are just as efficient. Regardless of what cleaners you use, it is a good idea to wear gloves when cleaning or doing the dishes, according to Garshick.
“You don’t necessarily need to worry about the product itself; it’s just making sure you’re protecting the skin that would come into contact with products,” Garshick adds.
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She recommends keeping moisturizer by the sink to remind you to moisturize your skin if you wash your hands prior to cooking or other activities. This will help prevent the skin irritation that is typically caused by frequent washing.
Bathroom
Keeping your bathroom clean is important to avoid potential eczema triggers such as mold. As with the kitchen, you should wear gloves when cleaning the bathroom and avoid contact with abrasive chemicals such as bleach. These can irritate the skin. Don’t forget to keep a moisturizer by the sink for use after washing your hands.
When taking showers, aim for short and lukewarm showers. It is also important to pay attention to the products you use. Avoid soaps that are harsh and abrasive scrubs. “Make sure you’re looking for products that are designed for sensitive skin or eczema-prone skin,” Garshick notes.
When you are done showering, apply a layer of moisturizer while your skin is still damp.
Living Room
Dust mites can also lurk in your living room. However, this can be combated through routine vacuuming and dusting. It’s also smart to invest in fabric that is easy to clean. This includes rugs, curtains, etc. You can also purchase covers for your furniture.
“If you have a couch, make sure that the fabric is less likely to collect dust and that it’s easily cleaned,” Garshick says.
Backyard
If you have a backyard/front yard or spend a lot of time outside, you’ll want to avoid getting too much sun. Consider investing in umbrellas to block the sun out. You should also make a habit out of wearing sunscreen that has the NEA's Seal of Acceptance.
“If eczema spots get some sun exposure, sometimes they can be more likely to leave a little mark behind,” which is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, according to Garshick.
When to see a doctor
These tips can help you avoid eczema triggers in your home and prevent flare-ups, however, they are not a substitute for eczema treatment. It is still important to see a dermatologist and have a treatment plan in place.
“If the eczema is already active, it’s important to treat it,” Garshick adds. This can be done through moisturizing and using any topical or other treatments you’re prescribed. “Avoidance of triggers is just one important part of managing eczema.”
You should also consult with a dermatologist if the tips above do not work and you are still experiencing flare-ups. He or she can conduct patch testing on your skin to see if you’re allergic to any of the common ingredients found in the household products you use.
