4. Mold
Although not many studies have been done on mold as a trigger, it has been positively identified as such in a few patients. This makes sense in light of the link between allergens – especially airborne ones – and eczema. Mold releases airborne spores. You easily breathe this in and your body recognizes them as foreign invaders and develops an allergy response to fight them. By this point we know what happens – your immune system literally gets trigger-happy and goes into overdrive. The result? Those itchy your skin rash and flakes.
So, what can you do to help yourself? Keep humidity at bay – under 40% atmospheric humidity is good. When you see mold growing, clean the area in its tracks – vinegar and bleach are good for this, as is keeping water damage or leaks under control. Keeping an adequate supply of airflow in an area is also a good way of stemming the sudden rise of mold.