Eczema or clinically known as atopic dermatitis, is the name to describe the itchy, red, inflammation of the skin. It is extremely common, and appears commonly behind the knees and elbows but is known to appear in other places. The surface of said affected skin can be bumpy, rough, cracked and very itchy . Eczema can also be different for anyone, but these are the most common.
Although there is no leading cause of eczema, it may be triggered by either a family history of allergies or high skin sensitivity to rough fabrics, pet dander, or it can be a chemical reaction to certain products we use everyday such as soaps or perfumes. Soaps are one thing we use every day without a thought. From our hand soaps, to detergents and dish soaps, it plays a major role in our lives. This is why we have to know what is in our soaps and why it is irritating our skin. Certain soaps, like those listed below, in particular may show to be to blame as an irritant culprit:
1. Soaps containing methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and methylisothiazolinone (MI)
MCI and MI are added into millions of our skin products, are known to contribute to rashes on the skin along with irritation. Commonly used for their preservative properties.
2. Soaps with propylene glycol
Used in a variety of skin care products as a humectant, soaps with this ingredient can penetrate through the skin harming the lipid barrier irritating the skin.
3. Antibacterial soaps
Not only does the overuse of antibacterial products reduce the healthy bacteria on the skin, certain chemicals added to it can also cause skin dryness and irritation. If it contains such ingredients like triclosan or triclocarban, they are known to degrade to carcinogens.
4. Strong fragrance soaps
These can cause irritation and itching even where you don’t see it . Certain chemicals in added fragrance can lead to headaches and even dizziness.
5. Soaps with cocamidopropyl betaine from coconut oil
Known to be a naturally derived surfactant, it can cause allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis, itching, and even blisters in some cases.
6. Soaps with botanical oils or essential oils
Soaps with these can be especially harmful to those with allergies. Natural doesn’t always mean good, for high concentrations of certain essential oils are known to cause skin irritation.
It is important to be mindful and conscious of ingredients when dealing with allergies and skin sensitivities.Eczema triggers are found in the things we use everyday and it is our duty to know what is going on our skin. Opt for the unscented, zero dye and fragrance option whenever possible. Always read the
