Common Soaps That May Cause Eczema Flare-Ups

June. 29,2025

Eczema sufferers should be cautious with soap choices. Fragrance-added, harsh cleansing, and essential oil-based soaps can trigger flare-ups. Consulting healthcare providers is vital for proper management. This article highlights common soap ingredients that may worsen eczema symptoms, emphasizing the importance of gentle skin care and professional treatment options like CIBINQO™ for moderate to severe cases.

Common Soaps That May Cause Eczema Flare-Ups

Common Soaps That May Cause Eczema Flare-Ups

Dermatitis or eczema is often worsened by skin irritation, affecting over 31 million individuals nationwide. This condition manifests as dry, itchy skin, patches, blisters, and rashes that can lead to infections. Various factors can trigger eczema, with allergic reactions to cosmetic products being a primary cause. Below are some types of soaps that can exacerbate flare-ups.

Fragrance-Added Soaps
Scented soaps are popular for masking body odor, but artificial fragrances pose risks. About 15% of eczema sufferers develop fragrance allergies, which worsen symptoms and cause flare-ups.

Use of scented soaps can intensify eczema symptoms. Many fragrances are chemical-based and can trigger severe allergic reactions, leading to increased irritation.

Soaps Containing Strong Cleansing Agents
Harsh cleansing ingredients like sulfates are common in many soaps. Sulfates strip away natural oils, leaving skin dry and more prone to irritation and itching. Lanolin, another ingredient, offers moisturizing benefits but can also damage the skin's protective barrier and proteins.

Essential Oil-Infused Soaps
While natural oils like tea tree oil have antibacterial and antifungal properties that benefit skin, they can cause flare-ups in allergic individuals. Essential oils are used for fragrance and therapeutic effects but may provoke contact dermatitis.

Certain treatments, like CIBINQO™ (abrocitinib), a prescription JAK inhibitor tablet, are approved for moderate to severe eczema. This once-daily medication helps reduce inflammation, redness, and irritation, and is suitable for adolescent patients. Coupons for CIBINQO™ may be available for online purchase.