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.
Gentle Trends for Eczema
1. Red Light Therapy Masks
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.
2. Ice Rollers and Globes
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.
1. IPL Hair Removal Devices
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.
2. Dry Brushing
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.
RELATED: How To Deal With Your Eczema & Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
3. Microcurrent Devices
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
