Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that can cause itching and dryness as well as more severe symptoms, such as scaly or blistered skin. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic type of eczema that is triggered by an allergic reaction. Eczema and atopic dermatitis can be set off by a variety of substances; soaps are a common culprit, especially those containing specific chemicals. Here are five soaps to avoid if you suffer from eczema:

1. Propylene glycol based soaps
Propylene glycol is a multi-purpose ingredient that is mainly used to hydrate the skin and to aid other chemicals in penetrating the skin. Eczema explained on a microscopic level, occurs when the cells of the outermost skin barrier are weak and highly susceptible to irritants. By helping irritants to penetrate the skin further, propylene glycol often negates its own intended purpose, causing dryness and inflammation. Organic ingredients can replace propylene glycol and provide the same benefits without the unnecessary side effects.

2. Soaps containing essential oils
Essential oils are popular substitutes for synthetic components in soaps, but, unfortunately, they can cause even worse eczema. The concentration of these powerful oils in soap products is often too high for regular use on the skin. Finding a soap that contains a smaller essential oil concentration or switching to a different essential oil that doesn’t cause flare-ups—or even using a soap without any essential oils at all—can help eliminate any painful symptoms.

3. Antibacterial soaps
Antibacterial soaps use ingredients like triclosan and chlorhexidine that kill the spread of bacteria, but can also trigger an allergic reaction. Because they are found almost everywhere, antibacterial soaps are a common source of eczema, particularly for those working in professions where handwashing is frequently necessary. If these soaps are causing flare-ups, try to avoid them; despite common beliefs, non-antibacterial soaps can clean your hands just as effectively as antibacterial soaps. 

4. Soaps with methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone
These two preservatives are often found in soaps because of their antibacterial and antifungal qualities. They are also a popular ingredient in non-cosmetic products, such as glass cleaner, industrial paint, and fabric softener. These preservatives are naturally toxic to skin cells, and even the smallest amount can trigger severe eczema. If certain soaps cause chronic skin irritation, it is more than likely that either of these chemicals can be found in them.

5. Soaps with strong fragrances
The chemicals used to produce fragrances in soaps are usually synthetic. Those with atopic dermatitis can have a higher sensitivity to these harmful chemicals, which can worsen with chronic exposure. What’s more, strong fragrances are usually a combination of various chemicals, making it difficult to isolate and avoid what is causing the flare-up. Switching to a natural or an organic substitute that doesn’t contain synthetic fragrance at all can offer an effective solution for eczema patients.

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of eczema flare-ups because of the wide variety of soap products that are used on a daily basis. Anyone with symptoms of eczema should be cautious of these five kinds of soap and should try to identify the allergic source through the process of elimination.