You might have noticed the buzz around the latest beauty trends on social media, promising amazing results for your skin. But if you’re a Black woman dealing with eczema, you might approach these trends with caution. With skin that’s often more sensitive, it’s important to navigate these trends carefully. While not all viral beauty trends are eczema-friendly, some can actually benefit your skin. Here’s a guide to help you make informed choices when it comes to beauty trends, with insights from dermatologists who understand your unique needs.
These masks emit low-wavelength red light, a form of LED therapy that can reduce inflammation. While the long-term effects are still unknown, many eczema sufferers have found relief from dryness and redness.
Cold therapy can soothe itchy skin and reduce inflammation. Dermatologists recommend these tools, especially during flare-ups, as they help calm irritated nerves.
Ice rollers and globes are two handheld tools you stick in the freezer and then use to massage your face. According to George Han, MD, a dermatologist at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, they get two thumbs up for people with eczema because they help calm the nerves responsible for irritation. “We actually recommend ice or cold packs for stubborn itchy areas during flare-ups,” he tells SELF.
Ensure that you roll the ice or cold pack instead of leaving it in one spot, or use it with a barrier such as a light cloth to prevent any burning sensations.
If you’re not experiencing flare-ups, intense pulsed light (IPL) hair removal devices can be safe to use. However, they are not suitable for darker skin tones, as they can cause hyperpigmentation and burns.
Scrubbing with a brush without water, serums, or oils can damage the skin barrier, which is already weakened in eczema-prone skin.
According to Dr. Han, while it might seem helpful for exfoliation, the brush itself could further damage the skin barrier, which is already weakened.
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These devices emit low-level electrical currents for facial stimulation. However, the repeated pressure from microcurrent devices can disrupt your skin’s already sensitive barrier and lead to itching, potentially triggering a
flare-up. Additionally, these devices often require the use of a primer gel, which may contain fragrances and other ingredients that could irritate your skin further.
The HydraFacial is a popular salon treatment that uses a hydradermabrasion device to deeply cleanse and exfoliate your skin, extracting impurities from your pores while simultaneously hydrating your skin. This three-step process aims to leave your skin looking radiant and rejuvenated.
However, it’s important to approach this treatment with caution if you have eczema. Emma Guttman-Yassky, MD, Ph.D., director of the Center for Excellence in Eczema at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City, tells SELF the cleansers and moisturizers used during a HydraFacial may contain ingredients that could potentially irritate eczema-prone skin. It’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist before undergoing this treatment, as individual reactions can vary.
Beyond these specific trends, there are general tips that can help manage eczema and keep your skin healthy:
Having eczema doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy skincare trends, but it does require careful consideration. Before trying a new beauty practice, consult with a dermatologist to ensure it’s safe for your skin. Your skin will thank you for the extra care and attention. With the right approach, you can navigate viral beauty trends while keeping your eczema under control.
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