Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, red, and inflamed skin. It affects millions of people worldwide, and one of the most common triggers is the use of certain soaps and soap ingredients. If you suffer from eczema symptoms, it’s essential to know which soaps to avoid to prevent flare-ups. Here are some types of soaps and soap ingredients that trigger eczema:

1. Fragranced soaps
Soaps that contain fragrances are often irritating to the skin and can trigger eczema. Fragrances are usually made up of various chemicals that can cause allergic reactions and irritate the skin.

2. Antibacterial soaps
Antibacterial soaps are designed to kill bacteria, but they also destroy the natural oils on the skin, making it dry and prone to eczema. They contain ingredients such as triclosan, which can cause skin irritation.

3. Harsh soaps
Soaps that contain harsh chemicals, such as sulfates, can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and eczema. These soaps can also disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance.

4. Exfoliating soaps
Exfoliating soaps contain abrasive ingredients such as beads or seeds, which can damage the skin and cause eczema flare-ups.

5. Alcohol-based soaps
Soaps that contain alcohol can be extremely drying and irritating to the skin, leading to eczema symptoms.

6. Parabens-based soaps
Parabens are preservatives used in many personal care products, including soaps. They can cause skin irritation and trigger eczema.

7. Soaps with synthetic colors
Synthetic colors are often added to soaps to make them more visually appealing. However, they can be irritating to the skin and cause eczema flare-ups.

If you have eczema, it’s important to avoid using soaps that contain these ingredients. Instead, choose gentle, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic soaps that are specially formulated for sensitive skin. There are also prescription medications available to help treat and manage eczema symptoms, such as Dupixent, Cibinqo, Tremfya, Vtama, and Dupilumab. These medications work by blocking specific proteins in the body that cause inflammation and can help improve eczema symptoms. Additionally, taking vitamin D supplements can help improve eczema symptoms, as vitamin D plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin.