What Triggers Eczema Flare-Ups? Common Causes and How to Calm Skin Fast

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions.

What Triggers Eczema Flare-Ups?

Eczema flare-ups rarely happen without warning. For many people, early signs start quietly—skin feels tight, itching increases, or patches look slightly red—then symptoms escalate fast.

The frustrating part isn’t just the flare-up itself. It’s not always knowing what triggered it. In most cases, eczema flare-ups happen when multiple triggers add up and overwhelm an already sensitive skin barrier.

Below are the most common eczema triggers, plus practical ways to calm skin fast and reduce future flare-ups.

What Is an Eczema Flare-Up?

An eczema flare-up occurs when the skin’s protective barrier becomes compromised. This barrier normally helps retain moisture and block irritants, allergens, and bacteria. When it weakens, moisture escapes more easily and inflammation increases. Many people confuse eczema with other inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis — here’s a comparison you may find useful.

This leads to common eczema symptoms such as itching, redness, dryness, scaling, and sometimes cracking or oozing. Because eczema-prone skin is naturally more reactive, everyday exposures can trigger a stronger response than they would in someone without eczema.

→ Download the free Eczema vs Psoriasis Quick Comparison Checklist
A simple, non-diagnostic reference to help

 you understand key differences before choosing daily care products.

For this reason, ingredients with well-established soothing and barrier-supporting properties—such as colloidal oatmeal—are often used to help calm irritation and support skin recovery.

Most Common Eczema TRIGGERS

While triggers vary by individual, the following are among the most common causes of eczema flare-ups.

1. Dry Skin and Barrier Breakdown

Dry skin is one of the leading triggers of eczema. When the skin barrier lacks moisture, it becomes fragile and less effective at protecting against irritants.

Common contributors include:

• Cold or dry weather

• Low indoor humidity

• Frequent bathing

• Hot showers

• Harsh soaps or cleansers

Once dryness sets in, itching often follows. Scratching further damages the skin barrier, creating a cycle that can quickly escalate into a flare-up.

2. Irritating Skincare and Personal Care Products

Many products marketed as “gentle” or “natural” still contain ingredients that can trigger eczema.

Common irritants include:

• Fragrance (including essential oils)

• Alcohol-based products

• Harsh surfactants

• Exfoliating acids and scrubs

Repeated exposure to low-level irritants can quietly inflame the skin over time, eventually triggering visible symptoms.

3. Stress and Eczema Flare-Ups

Stress is a well-known eczema trigger. Psychological stress increases inflammatory signaling in the body and can weaken the skin barrier, making flare-ups more likely.

Many people notice eczema worsening during:

• Periods of emotional stress

• Poor sleep

• Travel or routine disruptions

• Illness or burnout

Stress alone may not cause eczema, but it significantly lowers the skin’s tolerance for other triggers.

4. Environmental and Weather Triggers

Environmental factors frequently contribute to eczema flare-ups, including:

• Cold winter air

• Heat and sweating

• Sudden temperature changes

• Hard water

• Seasonal allergens such as pollen or dust mites

Sweat is a common trigger because salt left on the skin increases dryness and irritation if not gently rinsed away.

5. Overuse of Steroid Creams

Topical corticosteroids are often prescribed to reduce eczema inflammation. While effective short term, repeated or long-term use can thin the skin and interfere with its natural repair processes.

When steroids are reduced or stopped, some people experience rebound flare-ups that feel more severe than before. This approach may control symptoms temporarily without addressing underlying barrier dysfunction.

Common Eczema Management Mistakes

Certain habits can unintentionally worsen eczema flare-ups:

• Washing skin too often or using hot water

• Scratching, especially during sleep

• Frequently switching products

• Treating only visible redness instead of ongoing barrier repair

Long-term eczema management depends more on consistency and prevention than aggressive short-term treatment.

How to Calm an Eczema Flare-Up Faster

There is no instant cure for eczema, but early intervention can help calm flare-ups more quickly and reduce discomfort.

Prioritize Skin Barrier Repair

A strong skin barrier is essential for calming eczema flare-ups and preventing new ones. When the barrier is compromised, moisture escapes more easily and irritants penetrate deeper into the skin.

Ingredients like colloidal oatmeal are commonly used in eczema care because they help:

• Soothe itching and irritation

• Support the skin’s natural moisture barrier

• Reduce dryness that can trigger scratching

Applying a barrier-supporting moisturizer to slightly damp skin can help lock in hydration and calm the skin more effectively.

Calm Inflammation Without Irritation

Eczema-prone skin responds best to calming, non-irritating ingredients. Overly aggressive treatments can disrupt the skin barrier and worsen sensitivity over time.

Colloidal oatmeal is widely used in eczema formulations because it helps calm visible redness and itching while remaining gentle enough for regular use. The goal is to reduce inflammation while allowing the skin’s natural repair processes to function normally.

Why Dermasolve Uses Colloidal Oatmeal for Eczema-Prone Skin

Dermasolve eczema products are formulated for people whose skin needs consistent support—not harsh treatment. One of the key ingredients used is colloidal oatmeal, a well-studied ingredient commonly included in products designed to soothe itching and support barrier repair.

Dermasolve is designed to be gentle enough for daily use, even between flare-ups, helping the skin stay more resilient when exposed to common triggers like dryness, stress, and environmental changes.

You can learn more about how this ingredient is used in:

• Dermasolve Eczema Relief Cream

• Dermasolve Eczema BodyWash

• Dermasolve Eczema Shampoo

FAQ: Colloidal Oatmeal and Eczema

Is colloidal oatmeal good for eczema?

Yes. Colloidal oatmeal is widely used in eczema care because it helps soothe itching, calm irritation, and support the skin’s natural moisture barrier. It is considered gentle enough for sensitive and eczema-prone skin and is commonly recommended for ongoing skin support rather than short-term symptom masking.

How does colloidal oatmeal help calm eczema flare-ups?

Colloidal oatmeal works by forming a protective layer on the skin that helps retain moisture and reduce dryness. It also contains compounds that help calm visible redness and itching, making it especially useful during flare-ups.

Can colloidal oatmeal be used daily for eczema?

For many people, colloidal oatmeal is gentle enough for regular use, including daily routines. Consistent use can help support the skin barrier over time, which may reduce how often flare-ups occur.

Final Thoughts on Preventing Eczema Flare-Ups

Eczema flare-ups are rarely random. They are often the result of multiple triggers adding up over time. By identifying personal triggers, protecting the skin barrier, and responding early to symptoms, it is possible to reduce both flare-up frequency and severity.

Eczema may be chronic—but persistent discomfort does not have to be.