It's Time to De-Stress Your Eczema Journey
If you’ve been told your eczema is “just dry skin,” we want to welcome you to our community and assure you: You deserve to be seen and heard. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) is a chronic, inflammatory condition —it is so much more than dryness.
This journey is complex, and it’s okay to feel frustrated and overwhelmed. We are here to simplify the science and shift your mindset from feeling helpless to being in control of your management process.
Your Eczema Isn't Your Fault: The Internal Link
Eczema is not only characterized by what it looks like (dry, scaly patches ) but also by severe itching and dryness. This condition is driven by factors beyond your control:
The Overactive Immune System:
Eczema is caused by an overactive immune system that responds to triggers by producing inflammation, damaging your skin barrier.
The Genetic Link
This is biology, not your fault. Some individuals have a faulty filaggrin gene, a protein essential for barrier health, making the skin fragile and prone to moisture loss.
The Holistic Connection
Since it’s caused by an overactive immune system, the issue also resides in the gut and an imbalanced microbiome. You may also have a heightened nervous system due to anxiety and stress, which makes flares worse.
The Eczema Rulebook: What You Should and Shouldn't Do
To simplify your routine and minimize stress, follow these science-backed rules for daily management.
The “Can’t Do’s” (Mistakes to Avoid)
Hot Showers/Bathing
Avoid hot water. Bathing should be short (5 minutes or less) in cool to lukewarm water to prevent drying out the skin.
Scratchy/Tight Fabrics
This is biology, not your fault. Some individuals have a faulty filaggrin gene, a protein essential for barrier health, making the skin fragile and prone to moisture loss.
Fragrant Products
Since it’s caused by an overactive immune system, the issue also resides in the gut and an imbalanced microbiome. You may also have a heightened nervous system due to anxiety and stress, which makes flares worse.
Rapid Temperature Changes
The “Should Do’s” (The Holistic Action Plan)
Moisturize Correctly
Repair the skin barrier through hydration and consistent use of emollients. Apply an ointment immediately after bathing while the skin is still damp to lock in moisture.
Support Internal Health
Improve your quality of diet; minimize processed foods. A healthy diet has been shown to reduce symptoms of chronic eczema
Gentle Cleansing
Use suds-free liquid soaps in the bath to minimize drying.
Manage Environment
Use a humidifier in dry air to increase moisture.
Manage Infection
Bleach baths (diluted bleach in bathwater) may be helpful to reduce bacterial colonization. |
Ready for Control?
experience self care & build community. let's trust the process together.
Your skin journey is valid, and every phase is a step forward. We are building this community to ensure you never feel lost or overlooked.
Want to see past topics? You can explore the full Skin 2000 Club archives here.