Root Causes of Eczema: Understanding Triggers and Natural Ways to Get Rid of It

Eczema can be frustrating. The constant itch, redness, and flare-ups can make everyday life uncomfortable. If you’ve tried countless creams and medications without lasting relief, you might wonder, what’s causing this? More importantly, how can you get rid of it naturally?

The truth is eczema isn’t just about what’s happening on the surface of your skin. It’s a sign that something deeper is out of balance. In this blog, we’ll explore the root causes of eczema, common triggers, and the best natural ways to manage and heal it for long-term relief.

What Causes Eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition, but it’s more than just dry skin. It often stems from a combination of factors, including genetics, immune system dysfunction, and environmental triggers. Let’s break down the root causes:

1. Gut Health Imbalance

The gut and skin are closely connected. When your gut health is compromised—due to poor diet, antibiotics, or stress—it can lead to inflammation and skin issues like eczema.

• Leaky Gut Syndrome: When the gut lining becomes damaged, toxins and allergens can enter the bloodstream, triggering immune reactions that affect the skin.

• Lack of Good Bacteria: A healthy gut microbiome helps regulate inflammation. If your gut lacks beneficial bacteria, it may contribute to skin flare-ups.

Natural Solution: Add probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi to your diet. Avoid processed foods and refined sugars that feed bad bacteria. Consider working with a holistic practitioner to restore gut balance.

2. Food Sensitivities & Allergies

Certain foods can trigger eczema flare-ups, especially those that cause inflammation.

• Common Food Triggers: Dairy, gluten, eggs, soy, and processed sugar.

• Histamine-Rich Foods: Some people react to fermented foods, aged cheeses, or alcohol.

• Inflammatory Oils: Vegetable oils like canola and soybean oil can worsen inflammation.

Natural Solution: Try an elimination diet—remove common trigger foods for a few weeks, then reintroduce them one at a time to see how your skin reacts. Keeping a food diary can help identify patterns.

3. Immune System Dysfunction

Eczema is often linked to an overactive immune system. Instead of protecting the body from harmful invaders, the immune system mistakenly reacts to harmless substances, causing inflammation and skin irritation.

Natural Solution: Reduce inflammatory foods, manage stress, and incorporate immune-balancing herbs like turmeric, astragalus, and echinacea into your routine. Regular movement, such as yoga or walking, can also help regulate immune function.

4. Stress & Emotional Health

Stress is a silent trigger for eczema. When stressed, your body produces cortisol, which weakens your immune system and increases inflammation.

Natural Solution:

• Practice deep breathing, meditation, or guided relaxation techniques.

• Engage in creative activities like painting or journaling to reduce stress.

• Get regular exercise to lower cortisol levels and support mental well-being.

5. Environmental Toxins & Irritants

Everyday products—soaps, detergents, perfumes, and cleaning agents—often contain harsh chemicals that strip the skin of its natural oils.

Natural Solution:

• Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic skincare products.

• Choose natural cleaning products or make your own using vinegar and baking soda.

• Install an air purifier to reduce indoor allergens like dust and mold.

• Switch to organic cotton clothing to reduce irritation from synthetic fabrics.

Common Eczema Triggers You Should Know

Understanding what worsens your eczema is key to managing it. Here are some common eczema triggers:

• Weather Changes – Cold, dry air in winter can dry out the skin, while hot, humid weather can cause excessive sweating and irritation.

• Hard Water – High mineral content in water can irritate sensitive skin. Using a shower filter can help.

• Synthetic Fabrics & Wool – Some materials can trap heat and moisture, worsening eczema.

• Hormonal Changes – Eczema may flare during pregnancy, menopause, or monthly cycles due to shifts in hormones.

• Over washing & Hot Showers – Frequent, long showers with hot water can strip natural oils, making eczema worse.

How to Get Rid of Eczema Naturally

Healing eczema naturally requires a holistic approach that includes diet, lifestyle changes, and gentle skincare.

1. Improve Your Diet

• Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s (found in salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts).

• Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

• Incorporate skin-healing foods like avocado, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens.

• Consider adding collagen supplements to support skin repair.

2. Use Natural Skincare Remedies

• Coconut oil: Helps moisturize and reduce inflammation.

• Aloe vera: Soothes irritation and speeds up healing.

• Oatmeal baths: Reduce itchiness and calm inflamed skin.

• Shea butter: A deep moisturizer that locks in hydration.

• Calendula cream: Helps reduce redness and promotes healing.

3. Detox Your Body

• Try a gentle detox by drinking warm lemon water every morning.

• Support liver health with dandelion tea, burdock root, or milk thistle supplements.

• Reduce exposure to processed foods, alcohol, and artificial additives.

4. Manage Stress Effectively

• Prioritize good sleep to allow your body to heal.

• Engage in yoga, mindfulness practices, or deep breathing exercises.

• Try adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola to balance stress hormones.

• Consider acupuncture or massage therapy to promote relaxation and circulation.

Eczema Cause and Treatment: Finding a Long-Term Solution

Healing eczema is not about quick fixes but addressing the root causes and making long-term changes. By improving gut health, avoiding triggers, managing stress, and using natural remedies, you can support your skin’s healing process from within.

If you’ve been struggling with eczema and conventional treatments haven’t worked, don’t lose hope. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Try incorporating one or two natural solutions simultaneously, track your progress, and listen to your body.

Would you like personalized guidance on treating eczema naturally? Book a consultation with us today and take the first step toward healthy, radiant skin!