Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, dry, itchy, swollen, and flaky skin. Rashes, blisters, and hives are also among the symptoms reported by eczema sufferers. This condition can affect patients of all ages. An eczema flare-up can be caused by environmental factors and the use of personal care products that contain irritants. While doctors may recommend certain medications, like Dupixent and Cibinqo to treat serious eczema, triggering an eczema flare-up can be as simple as using the wrong soap. To help keep your skin clean and healthy-looking, avoid soaps with substances to which you are sensitive:

1. Antibacterial soaps

To make antibacterial soap, manufacturers add chemicals that kill bacteria. In sensitive people, these chemicals can also cause your skin to redden and become itchy. Antibacterial soaps are harsher on your skin and alter the natural pH level. To keep it healthy, look for soaps that don’t have irritating additions.

2. Soaps with propylene glycol

Propylene glycol is added to soaps to help moisturize your skin. It also functions as an emulsifier to keep the product together. Unfortunately, it can also cause skin irritation and atopic dermatitis in people with sensitive skin. If you have red, itchy skin, itchiness, or other eczema symptoms, check the ingredients. If propylene glycol is listed, you should stop using the soap.

3. Soaps containing methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and methylisothiazolinone (MI)

MCI and MI are preservatives found in many personal care items, including soaps. These substances help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. While they perform a needed function, they can also cause the skin to turn red and become dry and itchy. If you see that your skin is red or a rash develops, switch to a soap that does not have MCI and MI.

4. Strong fragrance soaps

Many of us enjoy washing our hands and taking a shower with fragrant soap. Some of us even purchase soaps based on their scent. While these scents may relax us, they may be irritating to your skin and cause eczema symptoms. Although you may be sensitive to only one component, the packaging typically does not list all the fragrance components. Manufacturers prefer to keep the fragrance recipe secret to avoid it being duplicated. It is best to choose a neutral-scent soap.

5. Soaps with cocamidopropyl betaine

This substance derived from coconut oil, is added to soaps and other personal care products to thicken the product and create a rich lather. For some people, however, this substance can be irritating. To avoid an allergic reaction and eczema flare-up, look for products that do not contain this foaming agent.

6. Soaps with botanical oils

Botanical oils sound natural and smell great. It seems like this natural product would be suitable for your skin. They can be, but not for everyone. For some people, they are more irritating than soothing. Put it aside or leave it as decoration, and purchase a soap without the botanical oil.