Prevent Eczema

Eczema, which can develop at any age, is usually caused by an allergy to a particular substance or as a result of extreme stress and/or anxiety. This allergy or allergenic substance can be in the form of food or drink or something that the skin has come into contact with such as dust and mould or animal hair.

Once the allergen has come into contact with the body, the skin becomes irritated and inflamed then becomes itchy. This is the circumstances in which eczema occurs.

Now, in order to have the allergic reaction in the first place, the eczema sufferer will have a predisposition for eczema which is usually inherent in the genetic make-up which can be passed down from either parent or even from a grandparent where a generation is skipped altogether.

Others may develop eczema due to having sensitive skin which is prone to irritation. This is slightly different from those who have the condition from birth as a result of their DNA but can still be every bit as aggressive and severe.
The main substances causing skin irritation and eczema are:

Food preservatives (commonly known as E numbers)
Other foods such as wheat, eggs, nuts and fish
Alcohol (sulphites used in alcohol especially wines and beer)
Dust and dust mites
Mould
Animal hair/dander
Perfume
Heavily perfumed make-up and skin cream/lotions
Detergents
Biological clothes washing powder
Material such as polyester and acrylic

This list is not exhaustive and can be fewer or more depending on the individual. In order to determine which foods you may be allergic to, it is a good idea to have a skin test performed by your doctor. This way, you can eliminate the chances of an eczema flare up caused by food.
To prevent eczema occurring at all, you may wish to consider your lifestyle and if any of the above irritants come into contact with your skin on a regular basis.
For the full, step-by-step guide to getting rid of eczema, continue to  Beat Eczema.