Eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition that causes the body’s immune system to overreact and attack the skin. It results in inflamed, itchy, and sometimes bleeding patches of skin. It is not contagious but can be tricky to deal with. The most common areas affected are areas of skin that rub against clothing or other surfaces. The most common triggers for eczema are soap and other personal hygiene products, harsh chemicals, stress, sweating, and tight clothing.

To help, we’ve prepared a list of seven common skincare ingredients to avoid with eczema:

1. Ethanol
It is a volatile liquid that is colorless, flammable and has a strong alcoholic odor with an overall intoxicating effect. Ethanol can cause allergic reactions that can result in severe allergies. Also, it can dry out the skin and cause irritation, which can lead to swelling and redness.

2. Retinoids
There are concerns regarding whether topical retinoids can lead to permanent changes in skin pigmentation or cause other side effects when used over long periods. Your body sees them as foreign invaders and attacks them with an inflammatory response. The result is dry, irritated skin and redness.

3. Cocamidopropyl betaine
Cocamidopropyl betaine is a type of surfactant that is used in skincare. It can be bad for those suffering from eczema and other skin conditions. This is because it has both acidic and alkaline properties. That makes it very difficult for the skin to absorb and process this ingredient. When your body absorbs something that isn’t easy to process, it creates inflammation and irritation. This is especially true if you have sensitive skin or have already developed irritation from other ingredients in your skincare products. If you have sensitive skin and experience redness or itchiness after using a product, discontinue use immediately and look at alternatives that don’t contain this ingredient.

4. Lanolin
Lanolin is a waxy material obtained from the subcutaneous layer of sheep’s fleece. Several acne products and cosmetics also use this type of wax. Unfortunately, it can trigger eczema in some people because it has a similar structure to human sebum, an oily substance that helps keep skin moist. The similarity between these two substances makes them bind together and form clumps on the skin when they contact each other.

5. Propylene glycol
Propylene glycol is one of the worst skin care ingredients for treating eczema. You will find it in most moisturizers for dry skin or allergy relief. It’s essential to avoid this ingredient if you have sensitive skin or eczema. It can worsen symptoms when applied directly to the skin or absorbed into your body through your scalp.

6. Essential oils
Many essential oils are derived from plants known to cause irritation, inflammation, and other skin reactions in some people. Some contain ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction. Some are also very strong and can irritate sensitive skin even if you don’t have allergies or an existing condition like eczema.

7. Fragrances
Fragrances are added to skincare products to make them smell better, but they can also trigger an allergic reaction in some people with eczema. Most contain synthetic chemicals that could irritate, so it’s best to avoid fragranced products if you have eczema. They can cause an immediate reaction in sensitive skin, making even simple body lotions painful and uncomfortable. In addition to avoiding them when choosing your skincare products, make sure you wash your hands after applying any product containing a fragrance.

It is challenging to keep track of all the ingredients in skincare and makeup products. However, it is important to do so because some of the ingredients may cause allergies to sensitive skin. And, in the case of eczema, it is even more important not just to avoid all products that contain skin irritants and allergens.