Have you ever found yourself hesitating to go shopping due to your eczema? What should be a fun experience may leave you feeling apprehensive to enter a store. We’ve all been there. Fortunately, through years of experience, my fears have subsided, as I’ve learned to fully accept any challenge that comes with my skin. And now that I’ve overcome that obstacle, I want to help you do the same. Here are some of my treasured shopping tips when dealing with eczema.
I remember being stared at for my eczema when I was just a toddler; my mom always rehashes the same story. She was pushing my stroller in a store when a random stranger rudely stopped her and asked, “What is wrong with your daughter’s skin, and why don’t you do something about it?” Well, it’s decades later, and I still get stared at or asked questions about my skin.
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My skin issues tend to vary, but my hands, ankles, and thighs suffer from eczema flares the most. Occasionally, I have to brace myself for a breakout along my neck that turns purple. And unfortunately, these areas tend to be more exposed, which leads to strangers staring.
So yes, people may stare. After years of being self-conscious, I finally reached a point where my answer to this problem is: let them stare! Many people are uncomfortable when they see something outside their norm. But it’s normal for you and it shouldn’t stop you from living your life. Their ignorance shouldn’t have to impact your comfort. Don’t hide in your cramped changing room; go check out your new outfit in the big mirror.
When you go shopping, go with intention and confidence. If someone stares, disregard them. If they ask a question about your eczema, answer how you see fit. You can joke around, take the chance to educate them, or decline to comment altogether. If you’re struggling to change your mindset, bring a supportive friend along to encourage and distract you. Don’t let a stranger’s stares interfere with your ability to enjoy yourself. Just remember that eczema should never hold you back. It can take practice to get to this point, but eventually, you will.
Before you go shopping, plan ahead to prevent and reduce the impact of eczema triggers. My hands usually have open wounds and tend to be the most vulnerable spot on my body due to my eczema. When I grab a basket or reach for a cart, there are dangers beyond germs that may worsen my eczema. I’ve flared up after touching residue from a fragrant lotion as well as traces of peanut butter (I’m highly allergic) and it’s been disastrous.
So, I have a plan: before and after touching anything, I reach for anti-bacterial wipes or use the hand sanitizer in my purse. If it gets to a point where my hands are in dire need of protection, I keep a pair of cloth gloves inside my car. Knowing your triggers will relieve a lot of stress when shopping, as you can prepare yourself and reduce the potential of any flare-ups.
I will confess that if I’m more than 85% covered by eczema patches, I won’t shop for clothing, as my skin tends to be painful and the fabrics will irritate it even more. With that said, ALWAYS check the material when trying on new clothes. Eczema responds best to light fabric or materials that will allow airflow and breathability. Make sure the products match the description!
Reach for organic cotton, linen, and hemp products. And note that most clothing may look clean–but it can be pretty filthy after numerous people have brought it into the changing room. Additionally, you never know what perfume, make-up, or scented lotion the person who tried it on before you was wearing. Always be mindful when trying on clothes.
When it comes to shopping, especially for eczema-specific products, I always do plenty of research. Before I even think about purchasing anything–online or in stores–I look for information about the company and its products. I want to know the company history, if there have been lawsuits filed regarding fraud, if the products are tested on animals, and where their products are sourced from.
This is important to me ethically, as I want to make sure I’m doing my due diligence by being socially responsible. But it’s also important to keep my skin healthy and prevent eczema flare-ups. I can’t wear or use items that contain harmful chemicals or are made of certain materials. If a company claims their lotion is an eczema miracle worker, I want facts to back that up. This research helps me to know if I’m choosing trustworthy companies who make quality items. I’ve purchased a product based on the reviews on its website, only to find out that the reviews were faked to boost the company’s profile, and the product fell flat. Researching companies and products will save you time, money, and help you avoid a potential flare-up.
Shopping while dealing with eczema shouldn’t stress you out if you come equipped with the right mindset and the right tools. While shopping online is a wonderful resource, you can’t always avoid stores altogether. Being prepared before you shop can save your skin a world of trouble.