I'm Healed, Well Sort of...

While there was jubilation in knowing that my eczema was under control, there was always that fear that anything from lotions to using detergents, allergic reactions, or even eating something could cause a flare.

I have begun to understand that there is life on the other side of a flare-up. I have been able to exercise and see what else I can do. I found out that I was able to play my favorite sport, basketball, spend time in the sun, and move as freely as I wanted to. Or so I thought.

Changing products and clothing

There were still flare-ups, discomfort, and itching that would occur, especially during the season's change. I went to the allergist and received an allergy test, you know, the one where they prick you to see what would turn up as a mosquito bite to make sure that you weren't allergic to anything. I soon found out what I was allergic to. I also realized that although my lotion was unscented, everything else I used had to be unscented. So I changed my detergent and clothing to ensure that everything I wore was unscented and 100% cotton.

Vacations

From my first vacation to my most recent one, I learned about my body and what I was able to do while I was away. During my vacation, my eczema was still at its peak from the constant itching, flare-ups, and dry skin. Despite feeling uncomfortable for most of my stay, I managed to enjoy my time and did my best not to think of my condition. Once my eczema was at a manageable level, I took my first vacation out of the country. I learned what my skin can and cannot tolerate, like being in the sun and having adult libations. Another thing is to pack pack pack plenty of your go-to lotions, body scrubs, facial cleansers, etc. because you never know how your skin will adjust to being in this environment. I don't wear jewelry, as I learned that that is a trigger for flare-ups.

Self-care is the best care

Be sure to put yourself first — your mental health matters. You have the right to decompress, take the time to yourself, isolate yourself from the world, and recharge. We live in a time when there have been drastic changes in our lives during the pandemic.

Going to the gym

A few things I've done to take care of myself is going to the gym, which continues to be a huge stress reliever. Back when my eczema was at its worst, I had no outlet, and I felt as though no one understood what I was going through, so I redirected my anger and frustration toward the gym. Now it's become a habit where I can take care of myself while participating in a hobby I enjoy.

Taking time off work

I took time off from work. I didn't realize how stressful my job was until the pandemic hit, and I was working from home. I soon realized the commute and the pressure to perform while dealing with the inconsistencies in upper management. Once the pandemic allowed us to be in the office from time to time, I saw a big difference in my flare-ups, which happened much more frequently while I was in the office versus working from home. To avoid flare-ups, I took the much-needed personal, sick, and vacation days which made a difference not only in my mood but also in my skin.