This week, I am delighted to introduce guest writer Harriet Williams. We’ve collaborated on this piece together, delving into the journey of dealing with eczema. Sharing our personal experiences and driven by a desire to inspire and support others, our goal is to provide comfort and reassurance, letting others know they are not alone in their journey.
Navigating life with eczema isn’t just about managing a skin condition; it’s a journey filled with highs and lows, challenges, and triumphs. As someone who has experienced the complexities of eczema firsthand, I am passionate about shedding light on this often misunderstood condition and providing support and resources to those who need it.
My journey with eczema and topical steroid addiction has shaped my perspective as a skin influencer, educator, and advocate for Topical Steroid Withdrawal. Balancing the demands of daily life as a single parent to a ‘tweenage’ daughter, I’ve learned to embrace both the difficulties and remarkable moments along the way.
Joining me in this journey is Alice, the Founder and formulator of Õrn Kuu, a natural skincare brand born through her own lifelong experience of eczema. Her products are all designed for individuals with sensitive, allergy, and eczema-prone skin. Together, we’re committed to providing a luxurious, sensory experience for people without fragrance allergens, empowering them to feel confident in their skin.
Living with eczema involves navigating a range of emotions and obstacles unique to each individual. Beyond the physical discomfort of itching and inflammation, eczema can take a toll on our mental health and well-being. Sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and heightened feelings of anxiety and depression are common experiences we face.
Eczema isn’t just a superficial concern; it profoundly impacts our self-esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life. The visible manifestations of eczema can provoke self-consciousness and embarrassment, leading us to withdraw from social interactions.
Managing eczema requires a holistic approach that encompasses skincare, stress management, and identifying triggers. Alice shares her top three holistic tips for managing eczema:
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Be kind to yourself: Practising self-compassion and positive self-talk can help alleviate stress and promote healing.
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Keep a simple skincare routine: Simplifying your skincare routine and using gentle, fragrance-free products can support the skin’s natural barrier function.
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Learn your triggers: Keeping a journal and identifying triggers such as hormones, stress, and certain foods can help manage flare-ups. Alice has created a skin mood journal for you here
Despite the challenges of living with eczema, there is hope and support available. In a recent survey conducted by Õrn Kuu, we discovered the profound impact eczema has on daily life (66%), with a majority of respondents reporting sleep disturbances (41%), relationship challenges (58.3%), and negative effects on mental health (91.8%) and self-confidence (91.6%).
Finding accurate information and reliable support can be challenging, which is why Alice and I have compiled a list of resources and Instagram accounts to follow for guidance and inspiration. From charities and organisations to research papers and social media influencers, there’s a wealth of knowledge and support available for those navigating life with eczema.
First, a simple 3 step skincare routine with Õrn Kuu products suggested by Alice, to help nourish and replenish very dry, sensitive and eczema prone skin:
1 – Cleanse – Värske Cleanse & Nourish Multipurpose Oil
2 – Moisturise – Metsa Ceramide Facial Moisturiser
3 – Protect – Öö Omega Concentrate Pressed Facial Serum
Õrn Kuu Face Ritual Discovery Sets
Charities / organisations:
Allergy Insight www.allergy-insight.com
Changing Faces www.changingfaces.org.uk
National Eczema Society www.eczema.org
National Eczema Association www.nationaleczema.org
Abbvie www.letstalkeczema.co.uk
Research papers:
About the mind – skin connection
Alternative approaches to the treatment of eczema – a study
Instagram accounts to follow:
@eczemawithharrii @ornkuuskincare @itch_n_bitch @whatallergy @atopicdermatitis_hu @nicolaljohnston @eczema society @nationaleczema @sophiedoyleart @skintuitivemind @tsw_beezeebuzz @bee.thebrave @yasitskrishy @ezapenaturals @psoriasisprincessdiaries @selectskinjenn
As we continue on our journey with eczema, let’s remember to be kind to ourselves, advocate for our needs, and seek support when needed. Together, we can raise awareness, foster understanding, and empower individuals affected by eczema to live their best lives.
Harrii & Alice