Bodily Irritant Factors
The activities that you engage in and the clothing that you wear may themselves be a cause of eczema. Here are some of the possible causes from bodily irritants.
Clothing
When you wear a fabric very close to your skin for long periods of time, there can be negative effects. Some of the fabrics that are most closely tied to eczema outbreaks are the following.
- Wool. Many people who suffer from allergies must avoid wool clothing. The same holds true for some people who suffer from eczema. The woolen fibers can cause itching, rashes, and eczema occurrences. Other wool-like substances, which produce similar reactions, are cashmere, Merino, and mohair.
- Polyester. Though it may appear smooth, polyester actually contains tiny fibers that can penetrate the surface of the skin and cause intense irritation. Although most polyester and nylon fabric is lightweight, it is rarely very breathable, and the sweat and heat buildup on the skin contributes to eczema.
- Synthetic fibers. Other man-made materials such as acrylic, nylon, and various blends may produce eczema.
- Other clothing. Like food and chemicals, nearly every type of clothing has been blamed for eczema outbreak. Some have found that eczema increases when they wear denim and leather, possibly because of the buildup of heat. Obviously, rough material also causes skin irritation.
To avoid eczema-causing clothing, try wearing loose-fitting 100% cotton clothing. The lightweight, non-clinging, and breathable features of cotton will help keep your skin breathable and healthy
Workout
It’s not just clothing that can cause eczema. It’s your own body. Often, during an intense workout, the skin is repeatedly rubbed in some areas. The friction, heat, and sweat can produce adverse effects including rashes, inflammation, and eczema. Again, wearing light cotton during your workouts may reduce the outbreak of acne, or finding an alternative activity that provides the benefits of exercise, without the side effect of eczema.
