Atopic dermatitis (AD) is unpredictable. Even when you’re doing everything “right,” a flare can appear out of nowhere. That uncertainty can make it harder to feel comfortable in your skin and confident in managing the condition.
“It’s important for us to recognize the tremendous impact having atopic dermatitis has on quality of life,” says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in North Miami, Florida, and founder of DermFriends, a platform focused on skin-care education.
While you can’t always prevent a flare, there are steps you can take to feel more comfortable, reduce some of the guesswork, and regain a greater sense of control.
1. Be Choosy About Skin-Care and Beauty Products
Choosing skin-care and beauty products that work well with your skin can help you reduce irritation, avoid flare triggers, and make your daily routine feel more predictable. Whether you enjoy wearing eye shadow or simply using moisturizer that keeps your skin hydrated, choosing the right products that work for your skin can also help you feel more like yourself. “Things that make you feel more in control can also make you feel better about your atopic dermatitis,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. “So if you know that when you use a certain makeup, you get a flare-up, find a different product that’s more compatible with your skin.”
You can ask your dermatologist for recommendations or search online for products formulated for sensitive skin.
2. Wear Clothes That Make You Feel Comfortable and Confident
If you’ve ever worn long sleeves and pants on a hot day, you’re not alone. Many people with atopic dermatitis use clothing to hide their skin, because they feel embarrassed or worry about what others might say.
If covering up is what makes you most comfortable, that’s okay. But remember, your skin doesn’t need to be perfect to put on shorts or your favorite dress. You deserve to wear clothes that help you look and feel your best. What you wear can influence how you feel about yourself and even boost your confidence.
3. Keep Doing the Activities You Enjoy
Although it can be tempting to avoid social events and other activities if you feel self-conscious about your skin, atopic dermatitis shouldn’t hold you back from doing the things you love.
- Cooking
- Doing puzzles
- Knitting
- Playing games
- Reading
- Traveling
If returning to activities you’ve been avoiding because of atopic dermatitis feels overwhelming, start small. You could try a new recipe, take a hike with a friend, or meet up with a loved one for coffee. Over time, you’ll start to reclaim parts of your life that help you feel like yourself again.
4. Work Closely With Your Dermatologist
Working with your dermatologist to create a personalized treatment plan can help reduce symptoms and prevent flares. As atopic dermatitis becomes better controlled, you may find it easier to focus less on symptoms and more on the activities and routines that matter to you.
“There’s no cure for AD, but gaining a sense of control over the disease is what helps people feel better,” says Woolery-Lloyd. “One of the biggest things that gives people a sense of control is using a treatment that’s effective and works to control symptoms.”
- Gentle skin care
- Topical, oral, or injectable medications
- Healthy lifestyle habits
- Light therapy
But even with effective treatment, you may still experience occasional symptoms or flare-ups. That’s why it’s important to focus on progress, not perfection. Keep the lines of communication open with your dermatologist, so you can adjust the treatment plan as your needs change.
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