Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is more than just dry or itchy skin, it’s a common condition that can feel frustrating and uncomfortable, showing up as red, irritated patches that sometimes flare without warning. It happens because the skin’s natural barrier is weakened, making it more sensitive to things like allergens, weather changes, or even stress. If you have a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies, you might be more likely to experience it too. While eczema can be stubborn, the good news is that with the right care, you can calm flare-ups and help your skin feel comfortable and healthy again.

Eczema happens when your skin’s natural barrier isn’t doing its job as well as it should. Think of your skin like a cozy shield that keeps moisture in and irritants out. When this shield is weak, your skin loses moisture and becomes dry, itchy, and more sensitive to things around you. There are a few common reasons this can happen:

● Genetics: If someone in your family has eczema, allergies, or asthma, you’re more
likely to get it too.
● Environmental triggers: Things like dry air, pollen, pet dander, or harsh soaps can
irritate your skin and cause flare-ups.
● Stress: Believe it or not, stress can actually make eczema worse by triggering
inflammation.
● Skin irritants: Certain fabrics, detergents, fragrances, or even sweat can make your
skin unhappy.

● Weather changes: Cold, dry winters or hot, humid summers can throw off your
skin’s balance and cause problems.

Managing eczema means gentle, consistent care that soothes irritation and locks in moisture. Use fragrance-free cleansers and rich moisturizers with calming ingredients like ceramides , applying them right after bathing to protect your skin’s barrier. Avoid triggers like harsh soaps, fragrances, rough fabrics, and extreme temperatures, and keep baths short with lukewarm water to prevent dryness. During flare-ups, dermatologist-recommended medicated creams can help ease inflammation and itching. Along with skincare, staying hydrated, managing stress, and protecting your skin from harsh weather are key to keeping eczema under control and your skin feeling calm and comfortable every day.