Eczema is a skin condition characterized by the drying out of the skin, causing dryness, itching, and inflammation of the skin. Those suffering from eczema often deal with chronic episodes and have triggers associated with flare-ups. There are many ointments and topical treatments out there to help heal the skin, speak to your doctor about options, but there are also many topical products that should be avoided as they can cause flare-ups. This includes things like antibacterial soaps and scented soaps. Here, we’ll look at the various kinds of soaps that can be triggers for eczema:

1. Scented soaps

No matter how much you love your winter peppermint soap that smells like candy canes or your spring blossom soap that smells like flowers, the scented soaps have to go. These kinds of soaps are common triggers for those with eczema and will typically cause a reaction—trust us, the fun scent is not worth the pain afterwards. This also includes soaps made with essential oils, although they are natural, they can still be harsh on the skin.

2. Antibacterial soaps

As great as antibacterial soaps can be for keeping germs at bay, they contain alcohol and other harsh ingredients that can be triggers for an eczema flare-up. Additionally, antibacterial soaps can really dry out the skin, something eczema sufferers certainly don’t need on top of already dry skin.

3. Foaming soaps

Foaming soaps contain an agent known as SLS, a common eczema trigger, as well as alcohol, which has been identified as a no-go for those with eczema. In combination, these two ingredients can cause the skin to lose moisture and hydration, making the patient more prone to a worsened flare-up and extra dry skin.

4. Acidic soaps

Many soaps have a balanced pH, but alkaline soaps have been found to be the best for those with eczema. On the pH scale, alkaline falls on the basic side of 7 or above. Acidic soaps (low pH) cause irritation and dryness whereas alkaline soaps maintain your skin’s pH and reduce irritation and itchiness.

5. Soaps containing dye

We know, we know…colored soaps are fun! But let’s face it, they dry out your skin. This is due to the ingredients in the dye which can strip the skin’s natural oil, making them really harmful and irritating to those suffering from eczema. Do yourself a favor and opt for soaps with no dye or soaps that contain natural colorants.

If you have eczema, you’ll want to look for soaps that have an endorsement from the National Eczema Association (NEA) to be sure that they’re safe for use and won’t cause flare-ups. If you can’t find any, just be sure to avoid the kinds of soaps and harmful ingredients we’ve listed.