Most people use soap many times a day. They lather up in the shower or slather it on their hands without even thinking about it. It is normally a safe product, but it can cause problems if you have eczema. Some soaps can exacerbate your condition, especially if you're having an outbreak.
Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition also called atopic dermatitis. It is chronic, meaning that it lasts for months or years, and it causes inflamed, itchy patches on the skin. It is most common in babies and children, but it can persist into adulthood or start during the adult years. It often occurs in people who also have asthma or hay fever. It can appear anywhere on the body, but it usually shows up on the hands, arms or behind the knees. Sometimes eczema goes into remission, but it can reappear at any time.
Effects
Eczema tends to be very itchy. The Mayo Clinic warns that soap can worsen its effects because it acts as an irritant on affected skin patches. Most people shower daily, so eczema sufferers who practice good hygiene can inadvertently aggravate the problem by washing with soap. The effects are worse for people with eczema on their hands, because proper cleanliness requires hand washing several times a day.
Types
The American Academy of Family Physicians, or AAFP, states that people with eczema can prevent irritation by using mild soap. It recommends brands like Basis, Dove and Oil of Olay. The soap should be completely washed off and the skin should be dried thoroughly. The AAFP recommends using as little soap as possible on affected areas.
Considerations
Individuals may react very differently to the same product. The Mayo Clinic advises eczema sufferers to pay attention to their reactions when they use certain soaps and other skin products, especially those containing fragrance or dyes. Body soap is not the only type that can irritate the skin. Some detergents will leave residue on clothing and make eczema worse. This can often be prevented by using unscented or mild detergents.
Prevention
Soap-based irritation can often be prevented by moisturizing the skin immediately after washing it, according to the Mayo Clinic. They recommend using a cream or oil and applying to damp skin to seal in as much moisture as possible. This treatment can be applied to the entire body to prevent dry skin, but areas with eczema need special attention. The Mayo Clinic also recommends oatmeal or baking soda bathes, which soothe skin irritation.
