Right about now, you may be asking yourself "what exactly is a trigger factor?" A trigger factor is a phrase that is used to describe the onset on an eczema outbreak. Something gives you the uncontrollable urge to itch your skin, which results in a red rash. If scratched more, that rash can turn into an oozing blister-like sore or a rough, flaky patch of skin.

As previously stated, eczema sufferers don't scratch and dig at their skin just for the fun of it. There is a reason. You need to find yours. Although there are many eczema causes, medical professionals have developed lists of the most common. For some patients, an outbreak is caused by warm or cold weather. For others, airborne allergens, such as dust, mold, and pet dander, is the culprit. Many patients have an outbreak due to eating certain foods. Most commonly, an outbreak is caused by close skin contact with a certain chemical, such as those found in household cleaners, laundry detergents, scented lotions, and perfumes.

You now know some of the most common eczema causes, but how do you determine which is yours? You do so through trial and error. Unfortunately, this may not be the easiest process, but it is one of the most effective ways to seek permanent relief.

As previously stated, close contact with chemicals is a common cause of eczema. These chemicals are unnatural, but found in many everyday health and beauty products. If you are a woman who applies makeup, stop for a few days. Are your face and hands still irritated? If not, you have found your trigger factor. On the other hand, if you may need to keep looking. You know makeup isn't the cause, so look at your lotion. Is it scented or do you wear perfume? Once again eliminate these for a few days. Do you notice an improvement? If not, keep searching.

Although close contact with certain chemicals is a leading cause of eczema, it may not be the source of yours. Think about when you experience an outbreak. What were you doing in the hours before? Were you outside in the cold or cleaning your house? If so, the weather and airborne allergens, respectively, may be your trigger factors. As with household beauty products, make necessary adjustments to your daily routine and look for signs of improvement.


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