Explaining Why Eczema Is More Prone To Certain Areas Of Skin

Eczema exploits weaknesses in your skin. These areas of your body are more likely to be agitated by external eczema triggers. They are also more likely to be the first areas of flare up resulting from internal, immunological eczema responses. It is important that you understand which areas of your skin are weakest so that you can focus on strengthening that skin and preventing eczema.

One of the weakest areas of your skin is what scientists refer to as flexural areas. Flexural areas, as they may sound, are parts of your skin that are more flexible, bending and moving frequently. The skin in this area must be softer and thinner to allow maximum movement, such as the folding that typically occurs. This structural difference is what makes it more prone to eczema.

The thinness of the skin is the first weakness. Whether eczema is caused by an internal immune reaction or an external irritant, the reaction typically progresses from layer to layer until the skin begins to flake, itch, and seep as a full blown eczema flare up. Thinner skin will react more quickly, such as eczema around eyelids.

Folds in skin, such as the knee and elbow, also increase the chances of eczema. This is because these folds retain sweat, heat, dirt, and germs. These four are often a guaranteed equation for eczema. This is why eczema in children occurs so frequently. Children’s skin is very thin and their baby fat creates many excess skin folds throughout their bodies.

Now that you know which areas of your skin are more susceptible to eczema, you are armed with important knowledge to prevent eczema. Do what you can to keep the skin in these areas nourished and strong. As you do, you will find that you are increasingly able to resist eczema flare ups.