To make sure that itching will be lessened, you have to determine what causes such. This may be due to infections, allergies, irritants and stress. When suffering or if one is prone to develop the problem, it is recommended that they stay away from using harsh chemicals on their skin, strong soaps or wearing wool fabrics and polyester. Contact Dermatitis The Eczema You Can Avoid Like occupational dermatitis, contact dermatitis is another form of eczema that can be avoided. This type of eczema is mainly caused by contact with everyday objects (shampoo, food, water, jewelry, etc.) When the contact results in irritated skin, it is called irritant contact dermatitis. Some preventive methods Avoid having dry skin by taking warm (not hot) showers (not baths). Use mild soaps and body cleansers. After careful drying, apply moisturizing skin lotions all over, avoiding those with fragrances or other irritating ingredients. Refrain from wearing tight-fitting, rough, or scratchy clothing. Venous eczema, also known as stasis dermatitis, is one type of eczema that usually afflicts older people. This common eczema occurs when a person s circulation becomes sluggish. Starting in the lower legs, it is caused by poor blood flow causing fluids to build up, and the legs to become swollen. After some time, the fluid buildup affects the skin and soon develops a rash that is itchy, and produces painful sores over a thinning and discolored skin. Know what irritates your skin and limit your contact with it. Sweating and overheating Sweating and overheating are two most common triggers of the scratch/itch cycle. It can help if you dress up in loose-fitting cotton clothes. Wool and other synthetic fibers can heat you up and they can also feel rough to the touch. Scientists, however, have found links in the disease and the overactive response of the body s immune system to unknown triggers. Eczema is found to be common in families with histories on allergy and asthma. Contact with coarse materials can make the skin itchy. Too hot or too cold exposures can also trigger itch as well as exposures to certain soaps or detergents.