If you have weeping eczema or sensitive skin, you know the importance of choosing the right products to avoid flare-ups. Soaps are a common culprit for skin reactions, even those marketed for sensitive skin. In this article, we’ll explore five common ingredients in soaps that can cause dermatitis reactions or flare-ups. By avoiding these ingredients, you can keep your skin healthy and avoid unnecessary discomfort:

1. Fragrances
Fragrances are added to soaps to give them a pleasant smell, but they can also cause skin irritation. Fragrances are a common trigger for eczema flare-ups, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. To avoid fragrance-related dermatitis, look for fragrance-free soaps or those made with natural scents like essential oils.

2. Parabens
Parabens are a type of preservative added to soaps to prevent bacterial growth. However, they can also cause skin irritation, especially in individuals with eczema. Look for paraben-free soaps or those with natural preservatives like vitamin E or grapefruit seed extract.

3. Sulfates
Sulfates are added to soaps to create a lather and help remove dirt and oil from the skin. However, sulfates can also strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Look for sulfate-free soaps or those made with gentle cleansing agents like coconut oil or shea butter.

4. Triclosan
Triclosan is an antibacterial agent added to some soaps to kill germs. However, triclosan can also disrupt the skin’s natural microbiome, leading to inflammation and irritation. Look for triclosan-free soaps or those made with natural antibacterial ingredients like tea tree oil or honey.

5. Phthalates
Phthalates are added to soaps to improve their texture and consistency. However, phthalates can also disrupt the endocrine system and cause skin irritation. Look for phthalate-free soaps or those made with natural thickeners like xanthan gum or carrageenan.

Choosing the best laundry detergent for eczema skin and avoiding common irritants in soaps is the best treatment plan for those with weeping eczema or sensitive skin. By selecting fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, triclosan-free, and phthalate-free soaps, you can avoid unnecessary discomfort and keep your skin healthy. If you are currently experiencing eczema flare-ups, consider talking to your healthcare provider about treatment options like Cibinqo, Dupilumab, Vtama Tapinarof RX for atopic dermatitis, or Proactiv eczema skin treatment.