7 “Don’ts” for Black Folks with Eczema

Eczema in dark skin is just different.  An inflammatory condition, eczema is known for its annoying scratchy symptoms and unsightly scars, scabs, and scales. Whether you’re nursing dry skin or dealing with ugly blisters, eczema isn’t fun. In Black folks, the normally red colors may present as brown or purple, often accompanied by discoloration, small bumps, and even dark circles near the eyes. But here’s the good news!  If you wanna preserve that beautiful ebony skin without all the stress and hassle, you can. Whether it’s managing irritating shampoos, soaps, and detergents, or airborne allergens like dust and pollen, it’s time to regain control of your eczema. Here are seven things you should avoid to keep your symptoms in check and your flare-ups on the down-low. 1. High-Pollution Days You may have heard the term “Code Red,” which is often used to refer to poor air quality. If your local weather channel is telling you the pollution levels are high, stay indoors. While pollution is bad for breathing, it can also be bad for your skin. Urban smog, wildfire smoke, and dry, hot conditions can all worsen your eczema. Be mindful and try to stay indoors when possible, using a...