What’s the Link Between Eczema and Emotional Stress?

Stressed out woman with head in hand, dealing with eczema and emotional stress

Stress can affect the body in many ways…including an increase in eczema flare-ups. Eczema is an inflammatory condition that’s characterized by a red rash, itchiness, dry skin, and sometimes even blisters that crack or ooze fluid. It’s a chronic condition affecting around 10-20% of the population.

In this blog post, we explore the relationship between eczema and emotional stress, including:

  • How is stress connected to eczema?
  • Managing eczema flare-ups naturally 
  • How to avoid stress-induced eczema 

Read on to gain a better understanding of your body and how changes in stress levels can affect your skin.

The Link Between Eczema and Stress

Let’s dive into the scientific link between eczema and stress. Stress causes a spike in the hormone cortisol. In other words, when we find ourselves in a stressful situation, the body goes into fight-or-flight mode, leading to increased production of stress hormones. Too much cortisol production, however, can suppress the immune system, which can cause an inflammatory response. Stress can also make eczema outbreaks last longer. Unfortunately, the relationship between eczema and emotional stress can often be a vicious cycle. The more stressed you are, the more your eczema is likely to flare up. And the more your eczema flares up, the more stressed you’ll likely be! 

How to Manage Eczema Flare-Ups Naturally 

If eczema flare-ups are getting in the way of a good night’s sleep or a productive day, here are some ways you soothe your itchy skin naturally:

Use a gentle moisturizer

Keeping your skin well-hydrated is a great way to combat itchiness, one of the most burdensome symptoms of eczema. We recommend this ultra-moisturizing Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream as it’s ideal for people with sensitive skin. It’s made with just six pure and simple ingredients. Free from burning or stinging, it’s safe to use all over the body from head to toe. 

Wash with a Natural Soap 

Many soaps contain chemicals or fragrances that irritate sensitive skin and further dry it out. That’s why we love this Coconut and Sunflower Oil Soap Bar. It’s made with sunflower oil, coconut oil, and shea butter, allowing it to gently cleanse the skin without causing further irritation or dryness.

Indulge in a Bath 

Treat your skin to immersive care by drawing up a bath with this Conqueror Oatmeal Bath for Eczema. A rich source of beta-glucans, colloidal oatmeal helps fight skin sensitivity and diminish visible redness. Enjoy the immediately calming effects of this therapeutic bath soak.  

Wear Eczema Friendly Clothing 

The clothes you wear matter. We love this form-fitting Remedywear™ Adult Long Sleeve Shirt  because it offers a soft layer of protection. Made with TENCEL and embedded with zinc oxide, it’s soft, breathable, and soothing for irritated skin. In addition, its natural moisture-wicking properties make it comfortable to wear all day or night. 

Tips for Preventing Stress-Induced Eczema 

While it isn’t always easy to pinpoint the exact stressor that’s causing your eczema to flare, these tips can help lower stress levels and improve your emotional wellbeing:

  • Practice mindfulness and meditation. 10 minutes of meditation a day can make a big difference
  • Spend quality time with people who make you happy
  • Move your body for at least 30 minutes a day
  • Make time for activities that bring you joy on a daily basis, like reading, listening to your favorite song, or doing something creative 
  • Get between 7-8 hours of sleep
  • Listen to soothing music or sounds of nature
  • Speak to a professional. 

Manage your Stress and Eczema Today 

Give these self-care tips and natural remedies a try to help keep stress-induced eczema at bay.

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FROM: Eczema

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