Tag: College Life

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition affecting millions, with Black individuals often experiencing greater prevalence, severity, and persistence. While eczema isn’t curable, managing flare-ups is possible. For college students, juggling classes, extracurriculars, and social life while managing eczema presents unique challenges. Here are three HBCU seniors who are mastering this balance with finesse:

Briana Jones-Gill: The Broadcast Journalist

Briana Jones-Gill, a senior broadcast journalism major at FAMU, spends significant time on camera and prioritizes looking her best. When eczema flares up on her legs and cheeks, she adapts her beauty routine. “When I’m going to be on camera, I want to make sure that I’m picture-perfect,” she shares. Her approach relies on a simple skincare routine with gentle products like Cetaphil Cleanser, toner, and moisturizer, emphasizing the importance of SPF to prevent sunburn on sensitive skin. Briana manages flare-ups with moisturizers and showers to keep affected areas clean, benefiting from a supportive family who also deals with eczema.

Jayden Hall-Ingram: The Healthcare Advocate

Jayden Hall-Ingram, a senior speech pathology major and psychology minor at North Carolina A&T, is passionate about healthcare advocacy. He experiences eczema flare-ups on his back and arms and has found the search for adequate dermatological care challenging, noting a scarcity of dermatologists knowledgeable about Black skin, especially in the South. “There aren’t enough good dermatologists for Black people,” he states. Jayden uses hypoallergenic products like African net sponges and Dove bar soap, followed by raw shea butter for moisture and PanOxyl cleanser with SPF for his face. He manages flare-ups with hydrocortisone but hopes his experiences will help improve outcomes for other Black individuals seeking medical care.

Kaya Brown: The Business Major with a Gentle Routine

FAMU senior Kaya Brown, a business and administration major, relies on prescription creams for her eczema, which typically flares on her face and elbow creases. She emphasizes the importance of a gentle beauty routine, using hypoallergenic foundation and avoiding heavily perfumed lotions, preferring Palmer’s Cocoa Butter and Lubriderm. While fragrances can be a guilty pleasure, she uses them sparingly, especially for her retail job with the Atlanta Braves, to avoid skin irritation. Kaya is looking ahead to grad school after finishing her senior year, all while keeping her skin clear.

Key Takeaways for Managing Eczema

These three HBCU seniors demonstrate that managing eczema while excelling in college is achievable. Key strategies include:

• **Gentle Skincare:** Using hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products is crucial.
• **Moisturization:** Regularly applying moisturizers, especially after cleansing, helps combat dryness.
• **Sun Protection:** SPF is vital to prevent sunburn on sensitive, eczema-prone skin.
• **Prescription Treatments:** Consulting a dermatologist for prescription creams can be highly effective for managing flare-ups.
• **Seeking Support:** Leaning on family or peer support groups can provide valuable advice and emotional encouragement.
• **Advocacy:** Patients must advocate for themselves in healthcare settings, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed thoroughly.