What causes eczema?
Eczema is not caused by poor hygiene and it is not contagious. It comes from a mix of genes, a weak skin barrier and an overactive immune response, set off by everyday triggers.
Why eczema happens
- Genes. Eczema often runs in families with eczema, asthma or hay fever. Some people have changes in a skin protein called filaggrin, which weakens the skin barrier.
- A weak skin barrier. The skin loses moisture easily and lets irritants and allergens in.
- The immune system. The skin's immune response is overactive, causing inflammation and itch.
- Bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus is found on the skin of most people with eczema and can drive flares.
Common triggers
- soap, bubble bath, detergents and fragranced products
- heat, sweating and very dry or cold weather
- wool and rough fabrics
- stress and poor sleep
- house dust mites, pet dander and pollen
- infections and colds
- in some babies with severe eczema, food allergy can play a part, but food is rarely the main cause
What you can do
Avoiding triggers helps, but on its own it rarely controls moderate or severe eczema. The bigger change usually comes from treating inflammation, bacteria and the skin barrier together. Read about the Aron Regimen® and why steroid creams only work for a while.
Common questions
Is eczema contagious?
No. You cannot catch eczema from someone else, although infected eczema should be treated promptly.
Is eczema caused by food allergy?
Usually not. Food allergy can play a part in some babies with severe eczema, but cutting out foods without medical advice is not recommended.
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