eczema & sensitive skin

3 rules i follow

1. natural, breathable fabrics — 100% cotton, linen, lyocell, seersucker, sometimes silk. my test is simple: does it breathe, and does it scratch? so i touch it or try it on first, and read the care label. i skip 100% polyester (yes, even gym clothes) and most wool, which can be scratchy.
2. go loose — relaxed fits mean less contact with my skin, they're easier to cool down in, easier to moisturize under, and i can reach the spot that itches. search "relaxed," "wide," "straight," or "boxy."
3. always layer — when i flare i get hot and cold fast, so layers let me adjust all day.

safe outfits and fun outfits

i don't want eczema to decide everything i wear. when my skin is angry, i wear my safe outfits. when it's calm, i play with shapes and wear the things i maybe shouldn't. every morning is just: how's my skin today, and how do i feel?

if flakes show on dark clothes

skip all-black, or go lighter on top. wear a hat when my scalp is sensitive, pick fabrics that brush off easily, or try grey or dark brown, where flakes don't contrast as much.

my advice if eczema makes fashion feel off-limits

people say "wear whatever you want." i think that's bad advice when you're just starting. dress for your insecurities first: if red makes the redness on your face stand out, don't wear red. once you feel comfortable in your own skin, start experimenting from there.

my story, briefly

i've had eczema since i was about six. over the years i went from hydrocortisone to non-steroid creams to strong topical steroids that nobody taught me how to use. i overused them until they stopped working, then went through topical steroid withdrawal (tsw) while working a stressful tech sales job. my now-wife found an acupuncturist trained in traditional chinese medicine, and i overhauled my diet and lifestyle. my skin cleared for about three years. it's back now on my hands, face and scalp, and i'm still figuring it out. what works for me won't work for everyone — eczema is personal.