7 Confidence-Boosting Tips for Life with Eczema

One in 10 people in the United States develop some form of eczema, and atopic dermatitis is the most common type. Along with the skin rash, itch, and pain that comes with this chronic autoimmune disease, people may also experience social discomfort and a lack of confidence. Learn how you can feel less self-conscious when your eczema flares and more empowered to go about your life without stress and embarrassment.

If you know you’re going to be in a situation where eczema may affect your ability to perform or participate, like an exercise class or long work session, let the leader know upfront. That way, you can take a break or stand up and walk around as you need to without worrying what people are thinking. Your confidence to do what you need to do to manage your health may even help inspire others who are afraid to speak up.

You know the drill. You’re going someplace blazing hot but feel the need to wear long sleeves so people don’t stare at your eczema. Is the fear of their attention really greater than your own personal comfort? Instead, consider baring your arms and projecting a confident air to show others that you’re not bothered, and they shouldn’t be, either. It can take some practice to feel comfortable doing so, but even if you feel self-conscious, pretending you don’t care can ultimately make it a reality. Pay attention to your posture. Stand up straight and keep your head up. These are signals to others that you have your situation in hand and they don’t need to worry about it. After a while, you might find that people don’t even notice your eczema, and if they do, it’s quickly forgotten. People are typically much less observant or critical than we expect.

Everyone wants to look and feel their best, but it’s a good idea to pay close attention to product labels if you’re worried about eczema flare-ups. Deodorants, antiperspirants, shaving cream, talcum powder, and hair removal products may all contain ingredients that are bad for people with eczema. That doesn’t mean you can’t use them. Just pay careful attention to the ingredient labels and avoid anything with perfume or alcohol, which dries out the skin. Some products may advertise as unscented or fragrance free, but still contain possible irritants like vanilla, rose, or almond oil. Ask your doctor for specific product recommendations.

If you’re the only one you know with eczema, you might feel isolated and alone. Think about joining an eczema support group to swap stories and feel part of a larger community. You can learn tips for confidence building, as well as perspectives on treatment strategies that can help you get the right care and relieve symptoms.

Research suggests that people with eczema have a higher risk of depression and anxiety. A mental health evaluation can be an important tool to make sure you get the right emotional care, in addition to physical care. Working with a therapist or other mental health counselor can help people process the impact of eczema on their lives, learn effective coping strategies, build back self-esteem, and navigate their social and professional relationships with less stress.

Eczema isn’t contagious, and you didn’t contract it by being careless or dirty. Some people simply don’t know this. Practice sharing important points about eczema with those who ask questions, want to learn, and are willing to listen. You might explain that eczema develops as a result of an overactive immune system, and symptoms can flare based on environmental triggers like changes in the sun, wind, temperature, and seasonal allergens.

Proactively participating in your healthcare plan can give you a sense of control and help build confidence. Focus on finding the right treatment to relieve symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Give treatment a chance, but be vocal about what’s working and what’s not. Stay open to new options, as research, clinical trials, and treatment alternatives are emerging all the time. Your doctor should appreciate your efforts and encourage an open, honest, ongoing conversation that fosters trust and acceptance.