older people is because of the natural weakening of the skin, which then allows those pesky germs in for fun.
4. Different Strokes for Different Folks
Depending on your skin tone and type, your experience with eczema may look completely different than someone else’s. Brown skin in particular manifests symptoms in very unique ways. The typical redness of eczema may actually appear dark brown, purple, or even a grayish hue.
Even more, Black folks will usually experience different symptoms, such as bumps around hair follicles and on the arms, legs, and torso. Dark circles around the eyes and noticeable color changes in healed skin are also more common in Black eczema sufferers.
5. Genetics Play a Role
Some people have beautiful, seemingly ageless skin whereas others are constantly battling all kinds of things! Well, turns out there’s a good reason for this. Beyond environment and lifestyle, your genetics may also play a role in the development and severity of eczema.
Research indicates that the FLG gene, responsible for making proteins in your skin, may be more likely to mutate in people of African descent. This can help explain why the condition is more common in brown skin.
6. No Two Treatments Are the Same
As you can guess, treating eczema is about treating you. In other words, a personalized treatment method is the only way to go. Because eczema comes in seven fun varieties, with numerous differing symptoms, no one size (treatment) fits all.
Some moisturizers and lotions may be good for someone else but worsen your flare-ups. Sometimes, steroids and medications are needed, sometimes they’re not. You also have to consider how various treatments affect other conditions related to eczema, such as asthma and allergies. As always, speak to your dermatologist about what works for you!
7. There Is No Cure, But…
Speaking of treatments, eczema is not something that entirely goes away. Depending on the type and severity, up to 90 percent of cases in children can be managed by adulthood. But don’t let the relief of symptoms catch you off guard. The best thing you can do is be proactive. Know your triggers, eat well, stay hydrated, and keep a positive outlook.
While eczema may pose a greater risk in darker skin, this is not a life-threatening condition. Many sufferers can live normal, healthy, happy lives, albeit with a lil’ sacrifice and caution!