Teen eczema – Aaron’s story
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that often appears in childhood and can persist into adulthood. It causes red, itchy, and inflamed skin and can appear on the backs of knees and in elbow creases, on wrists or ankles, or on your face or scalp.
While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, it’s believed to be related to a combination of genetic, immune system and environmental factors.¹ ²
Aaron's journey with eczema
Aaron has lived with eczema since birth, but his symptoms worsened around age six. “The rashes themselves got worse, and it took longer to heal completely,” Aaron shares.
Aaron’s dad Hany has also dealt with eczema throughout his life, using prescription steroid creams to manage his symptoms and is a support for Aaron when he needs it.
Now at 15, Aaron is mindful of his triggers, but it can be challenging to avoid them, especially sweating during school sports. Dust is also a trigger, so keeping his room clean is essential.
“When I have a flare-up, especially when it happens around my eyes, it can be really stressful making it difficult to concentrate at school and get a good night’s sleep.”
Aaron also experiences eczema on his face, and on his neck and joint areas. Over the years, his family has developed routines to manage it.
Aaron's journey with eczema
Aaron has lived with eczema since birth, but his symptoms worsened around age six. “The rashes themselves got worse, and it took longer to heal completely,” Aaron shares.
Aaron’s dad Hany has also dealt with eczema throughout his life, using prescription steroid creams to manage his symptoms and is a support for Aaron when he needs it.
Now at 15, Aaron is mindful of his triggers, but it can be challenging to avoid them, especially sweating during school sports. Dust is also a trigger, so keeping his room clean is essential.
“When I have a flare-up, especially when it happens around my eyes, it can be really stressful making it difficult to concentrate at school and get a good night’s sleep.”
Aaron also experiences eczema on his face, and on his neck and joint areas. Over the years, his family has developed routines to manage it.
Aaron’s top tips for managing eczema
Keep your environment clean, which can be challenging for any teenager! “Change your bed sheets regularly and clean your room often to reduce dust.”
Be mindful of triggers. For Aaron, this means dust and sweat, but he’s also noticed drinking non-dairy milk can help reduce flares.*³
Moisturise after showering. “Damp skin helps products absorb better, making them more effective.”
Stay consistent. “The biggest thing is sticking to your moisturising routine even when your skin feels fine.”
* Please check with your healthcare provider if you suspect you may have allergy related eczema.
Aaron’s top tips for managing eczema
Keep your environment clean, which can be challenging for any teenager! “Change your bed sheets regularly and clean your room often to reduce dust.”
Be mindful of triggers. For Aaron, this means dust and sweat, but he’s also noticed drinking non-dairy milk can help reduce flares.*³
Moisturise after showering. “Damp skin helps products absorb better, making them more effective.”
Stay consistent. “The biggest thing is sticking to your moisturising routine even when your skin feels fine.”
* Please check with your healthcare provider if you suspect you may have allergy related eczema.
What to do if you think you or a family member have eczema
Eczema requires a diagnosis from a medical professional. Once diagnosed, pay attention to your triggers like Aaron does and find ways to avoid or reduce exposure to those irritants.
Aaron says one of the biggest impacts from eczema is on his sleep, with the constant itching making it difficult to relax.
If eczema is having a negative impact on daily life, consider asking your GP for a referral to a dermatologist for further assessment.
Need advice?
Your TerryWhite Chemmart Pharmacist can help you manage eczema day-to-day and provide personalised advice, including on:
• Mild, non-irritating, soap free cleansers
• Fragrance-free deodorants and laundry detergents
• Skin barrier-supporting moisturisers and ointments
• Medications as necessary
What to do if you think you or a family member have eczema
Eczema requires a diagnosis from a medical professional. Once diagnosed, pay attention to your triggers like Aaron does and find ways to avoid or reduce exposure to those irritants. Aaron says one of the biggest impacts from eczema is on his sleep, with the constant itching making it difficult to relax.
If eczema is having a negative impact on daily life, consider asking your GP for a referral to a dermatologist for further assessment.
Need advice?
Your TerryWhite Chemmart Pharmacist can help you manage eczema day-to-day and provide personalised advice, including on:
• Mild, non-irritating, soap free cleansers
• Fragrance-free deodorants and laundry detergents
• Skin barrier-supporting moisturisers and ointments
• Medications as necessary
Ego QV Dermcare Eczema Daily Wash 350ml
Ego QV Dermcare Sting-Free Ointment 100g