We all know that cold weather can leave skin feeling dry and tight, but for those who battle with eczema, the struggle is even more real. Red, itchy skin is far from fun, and in the worst cases, can be rather painful. Aside from a lack of moisture, a few other things can cause flare-ups. Here’s what to avoid.
Retinoids
Yes, retinoids can be superheroes when it comes to fighting signs of ageing, but they should be kept far away from eczema as the ingredient can be an irritant. If you do want to use retinol as part of your skincare routine, stick to a pea-sized amount and apply it after moisturizer.
Alpha-hydroxy Acids
While generally safe to use on skin, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are known to cause mild irritation, redness, and flaking. Lactic acid is said to be the most gentle of the bunch and would be the safest for eczema-prone skin.
Fragrances
Products which smell good can make you feel luxurious, but they can also cause harm to sensitive skin. As most fragrances are a combination of at least 10 ingredients, they can irritate and even trigger allergies. Check the ingredients and opt for products that don’t include any irritating extract—even if they’re labeled fragrance-free!