Also called atopic dermatitis, eczema is a common skin condition resulting in all kinds of itchy, painful skin. Although it is seen across demographics and age groups, eczema is most common in Black people, especially kids.
But it doesn’t stop there. There are also unexpected triggers that can worsen the condition in people with dark skin.
Here are eight eczema triggers you might not have considered, and what to do about ’em.
1. Braids and Weaves
Everyone wants to look stylish while protecting their hair, but turns out that looking too good might actually end up costing you your looks. What happens is braids and weaves can really irritate the scalp and skin at your hairline. Tight hairstyles especially may lead to friction, which can make your eczema even worse.
To combat this pesky problem, simply opt for looser braids and weaves. This will lower the tension. Also, be sure to give your scalp breaks and moisturize frequently with a gentle, dermatologist-recommended product.
2. Chemical Relaxers
While these chemicals are great for straightening hair, they can also do a number on your scalp, triggering eczema flare-ups. Your best bet to combat this is by limiting your use. Also, be sure to perform a ‘patch test’ where you apply just a bit on a small part of your skin to see how your body reacts.
If possible, consider natural hairstyles and heating methods that don’t need chemical relaxers.
3. Waxing Products
Oftentimes, the stronger the fragrance of the wax, the more it can irritate sensitive skin. The solution to this is pretty simple. Check the label for products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin, and again, perform a ‘patch test’ before fully applying. Finally, consider aftercare, where you treat your skin after the waxing. A nice aloe vera or moisturizer can do wonders at this stage.
RELATED: How To Deal With Your Eczema & Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
4. Vehicle Exhaust
You might not have considered air pollution as an eczema trigger, but it definitely is! Vehicle exhaust in particular can make it worse by inflaming your flesh. One way to address this is by limiting exposure to polluted areas or only going out on days when the air quality index is in a healthy range. You can also use air purifiers to cut down any indoor pollution where you live. In some cases, skincare is also useful, because a solid cream can block your skin from contacting pollutants.
5. Financial Struggle
Money is tighter than it once was for all of us, and believe it or not, this psychological burden is a trigger for eczema flare-ups as well.
One way to manage this is by reducing your stress. You can do this through meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises. If you don’t feel like getting into all that, just reach out. Talk to people you trust whose opinions you value and let them know what you’re dealing with. And if need be, reach out to a therapist or counselor for professional help.
6. Fabric Softeners
Many fabric softeners have chemicals and fragrances that bother the skin, and can be especially problematic for eczema sufferers. If your softeners are giving you trouble, shop for “hypoallergenic” products that contain no weird chemicals and have no fragrance. Also, be sure to thoroughly rinse your clothes to ensure all residues are removed. If you want, you can also try other methods, such as baking soda or white vinegar.
These substances can soften your fabrics without all the allergic mess.
7. Texturizers
Again, it’s all about the chemical content, and most texturizers are no different. There are several solutions if your texturizers are triggering your eczema. The easiest (but sometimes hardest) is simply to go au naturel with your natural hair texture. This avoids chemicals completely.
If you just can’t do this, mix it up. Go for a milder product. And whatever you do, keep the hydration locked in by moisturizing your scalp regularly.
RELATED: Managing Eczema Blisters: Your Guide to Prevention and Treatment
8. Botanical Oils
We all love our natural remedies, but sometimes those beautiful botanical oils are actually worse for your skin than the artificial stuff! It all depends on your particular sensitivities. This is why it’s important to, again, conduct a ‘patch test’ by using a small sample of the oil on a small part of your skin. If you do wanna go the botanical route, just try to go for gentle options, like coconut or sunflower oil.
At the end of the day, how you look and feel is largely up to you. While some eczema triggers are simply unavoidable, there are many that we can control. If you haven’t considered the eight triggers discussed in this article, now’s the time to make changes!
Speak to your dermatologist, get involved, and work out a skincare routine that works for you.
