Intro to Sarah Hackley: Patient and Caregiver

I read the labels of every single item I buy­–from hand soap and laundry detergent to air fresheners and carpet cleaners. I never shop at chain beauty stores, and I can’t remember the last time I purchased “regular" lotion. Such is a life with atopic dermatitis...

Learning to live with atopic dermatitis

My condition is mostly controlled. The last time I had a flare up was years ago, and my one and only major breakout was right around puberty. That doesn’t mean, however, that I don’t think about eczema.

The condition influences every single item I purchase. Dye-free, fragrance-free, no additives, “all natural,” organic. These are terms I know and look for on everything. If I switch detergents, cleaning products, beauty products, or just about anything else that comes into contact with my skin in one way or another­ (at any trace amount), I can tell. I get itchy. My skin gets dry. And I have to throw the product out.

My children's experiences with atopic dermatitis

My kids are the same way, though to varying degrees. My son’s biggest experience with atopic dermatitis was during his infancy. Like my own skin condition, his is mostly controlled (though he has a continuing struggle with another form of dermatitis). My daughter’s journey, however, has been long and arduous and continues to this day, which is well into her teenage years.

I am pleased to be able to share these experiences with you through AtopicDermatitis.net. Like many conditions, the learning curve for dermatitis can be steep. I’m happy to share with you the many things I’ve learned along the way.

Sharing experiences with the community

I’ll share what’s worked for my family and me and what hasn’t, along with when I knew it was time to try something different. I’ll share prevention tips, treatment tips, and tips on handling the obstacles that arise when treatment options fail.

I’ll delve into the emotional realities of the condition when it’s long-lasting and complicated, and how caregivers can help in these circumstances. I’ll discuss how to talk to your kids about the condition so that they’ll listen and actually do the work to manage their own skin care routines. I’ll talk about what to do when they don’t.

I’ve learned a lot over the years, but there’s always more to learn. So I’ll also be looking to share new research and treatment options with you. And, of course, I’ll be thrilled to hear what you all have to say about your own journeys as well.

Together, we’ll navigate the realities of living with atopic dermatitis. I’m so glad to be here with you all.

Have your own story to share!? We have a section for that, check out Share Your Story and submit your own experience(s) with atopic dermatitis.