Skin barrier disorder
The first sign or step in the development of eczema is the weakening of the skin barrier. The barrier is found in the outermost region of the skin and it helps protect the skin from foreign elements, such as allergy triggers, viruses, bacteria [1], and other harmful substances. It seals in the water and helps keep the skin moisturized.
Any damage to the skin barrier will make you more susceptible to infections and other foreign elements. Your skin may also lose moisture, and get dry easily. Skin barrier dysfunction [2] can be caused by gene mutations and problems with the immune system. Your skin barrier may also become damaged when you come in contact with certain substances, like hard water or irritating soaps. When the skin barrier is damaged, you become more prone to eczema.