If you are a sufferer of eczema then you understand how both physically and emotionally draining this ailment can be. Eczema flare-ups are hard to control once they start, and you mostly have to just let them run their course. Tia Mowry, celebrated actress, TV show host, and mother has suffered from eczema for about five years now.
“I remember the first flare up I had and it’s something that really messes with your self-esteem a little bit,” Mowry told InStyle.
One of the embarrassing aspects of flare-ups - visible inflammation in your skin - is that you aren't sure where it will show up on your body. Places that are more visible than others, such as your hands and face, are surely to make you feel more uncomfortable (along with the dryness and itching). Mowry explained, "Mine was little small bumps that would just itch and itch and I would scratch. My skin would start to peel and it would be embarrassing shaking people's hands."
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As a woman in the spotlight, Mowry understands the importance of feeling comfortable in her own skin and keeping her eczema under control. She has become one of the few celebrities working to bring awareness to this skin condition, but also helping to inform others how to cope with it.
Mowry recently teamed up with Eucerin's "Feel the Difference Challenge" to empower those living with dry skin and eczema. Even with a flare-up, you still have to face the world and here's some of the strategies that help her cope.
Identify the source.
One of the many things that Mowry and others must do in order to better cope with their eczema is to first understand and identify what causes the flare-ups. The culprit of these occurrences can often be directly related to a lifestyle choice.
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According to Rebecca Kazin, MD, medical director of the Johns Hopkins Dermatology and Cosmetic Center in Lutherville, Md, "Chronic cases of eczema have no cure, and due to its compromising of the skin makes one more vulnerable to other infections." Some typical causes of an eczema flare-up are stress, allergies and medicine.
Stress less.
Like many people, stress is huge in Mowry's life and is a contributor to her eczema flare-ups. She practices mindfulness and yoga to lower her stress levels. She explained, “The older you get the more you realize you have to start taking care of yourself and taking care of your health and well-being." Meditating for 10 minutes everyday in the morning and at night also helps her to calm down.
Watch your diet.
Certain foods will also trigger flare-ups. In Mowry's case, she said, "for me it’s too much alcohol on a girls night out. I think the key is to just listen and pay attention to your body in regards to what foods you’re putting into your body.”
Find what works.
The best thing to do if you are living with eczema is to figure out what works for you. Everyone is different, and just like with anything else, there isn't a one size fits all solution. Finding the courage to discuss this issue with others who are in search of support can really benefit you. Learn how they cope, and find out if there are any things that they are doing you can implement into your routine and regimen.
Tia Mowry stands by the effectiveness of the Eucerin brand, more specifically their Eczema Relief Body Crème and Sensitive Skin Gently Hydrating Cleanser. Other companies that specialize in over the counter eczema beauty products are St. Ives, Cetaphil, Nivea, and Aveeno.
