You finally find a skincare product that seems promising—but after using it for a few days, you start to notice that redness is creeping in. One of the ingredients turns out to be irritating, and you're back to square one.
Flare-prone skin is delicate, and everyone is different. This can make it difficult (and frustrating) to find products that work for you. While eczema patches are formulated specifically to be gentle and help calm eczema, you may find that your skin doesn't typically react well to adhesive.
Knowing what kind of eczema you have will give you a better idea if certain materials will trigger your flares. If you know you're sensitive or allergic to adhesive, here's what to know before trying.
Not sure which patch formulation will soothe your skin right now? Take the Flare Quiz to check your stage in 60 seconds.
Why Adhesive Can Irritate Flare-Prone Skin
Whether you flare or not, everyone's skin is different and can be irritated by myriad products. Some people have adhesive allergies, which is a "type of allergic contact dermatitis from glues," according to Very Well Health. The AJMC reports that 2% to 3% of patients who are given common topical skin adhesives will experience a reaction from allergic contact dermatitis.
This means the skin is typically triggered whenever it comes into contact with any bandage or patch. Symptoms can spread beyond the point of contact or stay localized depending on your skin, and they can last longer if you have high sensitivity.
How to Try Adhesive Patches
For extra assurance, be sure to check with your dermatologist or healthcare provider before trying The Flare Kit or any adhesive patch. That said, Mind The Skin patches were designed with sensitive and eczema-prone skin in mind and were repeatedly tested for irritation and sensitization: In a study of 107 participants (50% with self-assessed sensitive skin and 50% with eczema-prone skin), no adverse reactions were reported. These results confirmed that the patches are hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and suitable for sensitive and flare-prone skin.
If you know you have an adhesive allergy or your skin generally doesn't react well to patches, you can also spot test them: Trim a patch and put it on a smaller, non-irritated area. Monitor the skin during and afterward to see if any redness, inflammation, or itchiness develops. Be gentle when you remove it, especially if you're in Active Flare or your skin is weeping.
For gentle support that stays in place for hours, try the Flare Kit: It features Signal, Surge, and Reset, each of which provide the protection your skin needs during Pre-Flare, Active Flare, and Post-Flare.
FAQs
Can eczema patches with adhesive irritate sensitive skin?
Yes. Everyone's skin is different, and adhesive is a trigger for some while it doesn't bother others. Mind The Skin patches were developed and tested to not irritate flare-prone skin, but it's still possible if you have an allergy or extreme sensitivity.
Can you be allergic to the adhesive in patches?
Yes, around 2 to 3% of people's skin reacts to adhesive. This is a type of allergic contact dermatitis from glues, and it can cause redness, itchiness, and inflammation.
How do you spot test a patch before using it?
Trim a patch down and apply it to a small, non-irritated area. Keep an eye on it to make sure no symptoms appear. If the skin doesn't react, it's likely safe for your skin, but always check with your dermatologist if you're worried.
How do you remove a patch without irritating your skin?
Remove the patch slowly and gently, especially if you're in Active flare or the skin is weeping. The patches were designed to be easy to take off, so it shouldn't pull or irritate.