Telltale itchy bumps and blisters are the bane of anyone who’s ever dealt with eczema. One hidden culprit might be what you’re eating. Science is still connecting the dots between diet and atopic dermatitis, but one or more of these key foods might be causing or making your flares worse.

This common inflammatory skin condition affects adults, children, and babies. Itchy rashes can pop up anywhere and seemingly at any time. Dermatologists and doctors aren’t always quite certain what causes it. However, your diet, environment, and stress can aggravate and cause symptoms.

Atopic and contact dermatitis are the most common types of eczema. No matter your type, the foods you eat can worsen your symptoms or lead to a flare-up. It’s best to learn your triggers, especially if they aren’t on our list. Every person is different, and some of us have hidden food allergies and intolerances that can cause flares too.

WHAT CAUSES FLARES?

• Food allergy and intolerances
• Allergies—seasonal, environmental, and pet allergies
• Medicines
• Stress—mental, physical, and immune system
• Chemicals
• Fabric
• Breast milk
• Unknown cause