Best Gifts for Someone With Eczema: a Dermatologist-Approved List
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If you’re choosing a present for a special someone in your life with atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common form of eczema, you may need a little extra help. That’s why EH offers this roundup of dermatologist-approved picks. Although no one wants to be defined by their health condition, the person who receives one of these gifts will appreciate your consideration of their unique skin sensitivities.
If you have atopic dermatitis yourself, you may want to add something here to a personal wishlist that you share with others (if that’s your gift tradition). Or you could buy one of these items for yourself as a form of self-care. You deserve it!
From skin-care essentials that soothe itchiness to soft pajamas that feel like a wearable hug, the dermatologist-approved ideas below are designed to make daily life with AD better and to boost health and wellness overall.
1. Lotions and Ointments to Soothe and Protect Skin
Dermatologists advise people with atopic dermatitis to moisturize their skin at least twice a day, and so a bottle or jar of a quality eczema cream or ointment would be a great present, says Ahmad Zamael Amin, MD, a dermatologist who specializes in atopic dermatitis at Northwestern Medical Group in Chicago.
“It is a thoughtful gift — the expense of these products can add up,” says Dr. Amin.
Narrow your search to fragrance-free products, he says. Amin recommends CeraVe lotions, moisturizers, and sunscreens, which typically don’t contain a lot of ingredients.
Less is more when it comes to the ingredient list, agrees Samantha Casselman, DNP, a National Eczema Association expert and pediatric nurse practitioner certified in primary care at Happy Skin Pediatric Dermatology in Phoenix, Arizona. “Products with lots of ingredients can be flare-provoking for sensitive skin patients,” she says.
Another good product line when shopping for someone with sensitive skin is Vanicream ointments, lotions, moisturizers and even shampoo, says Amin.
2. Pampering Products to Turn a Home Into a Spa
Certain collagen face-mask kits can be safe for people with mild eczema, says Dr. Casselman. A hypoallergenic mask that’s alcohol free, such as Ebanel Hyaluronic Collagen Sheet Mask, is a good option.
“I’ve used collagen masks on my dry, itchy legs and face and it added hydration back to my skin and decreased my urge to itch. The cooling sensation is also very soothing and calming,” she adds.
Products like bubble baths or bath bombs should be used with extreme caution as these typically have added fragrances, which can trigger flares, says Casselman. In general, soaking in the tub for more than just a few minutes isn’t a great idea for people with AD because it can actually dry skin out, according to the National Eczema Association.
A pampering alternative gift could be an Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment made with colloidal (powdered) oatmeal. A warm (not hot) dip in a colloidal oatmeal bath is a great home remedy to relieve itch and irritation.
3. Super Soft Sweatshirts and Loungewear to Keep You Comfy
Casselman recommends clothes made from 100 percent cotton or bamboo because these fabrics are very soft and breathable. “They are also absorbent, so sweat won’t stay on the skin,” causing flares, she says.
Steer away from clothing made from synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon and wool which can set off the itch-scratch cycle, she says. “Leather-like products may cause too much sweat,” she adds.
Casselman likes the very soft and durable clothes made by Athleta, Alo, and Vuori.
4. Sleep Gifts to Help With Rest and Relaxation
Sleep issues are among the top problems for people with atopic dermatitis and their families, and so a gift that can promote quality z’s will be well received. Consider:
- Feel-Good PJs Although people with atopic dermatitis don’t always have issues with fabric allergies, sticking with 100 percent cotton pajamas that are gentle on skin is a safe bet, says Amin. Pajamagram PJs offer a variety of styles and patterns that are all 100 percent cotton.
- Sheets and Pillowcases Again, cotton, bamboo, and silk are the go-to fabrics for AD-friendly bed linens. If you aren’t ready to splurge on a full set, a silk pillowcase (Brooklinen makes one) could be the perfect gift.
- Sleep Masks Sleep masks are great for blocking out unwanted light and can help promote a restful night’s sleep. A silk sleep mask is a great pick for sensitive skin, and there are many options, including the Alaska Bear Sleep Mask Silk Cover, that are under $20.
- White Noise Machines These devices can counteract street and other environmental noise to help create a peaceful sleeping environment. LectroFan EVO has 22 unique fan sounds and sells for under $50.
5. Stress Relievers to Promote Overall Health
Periods of stress can cause atopic dermatitis flare-ups, and so items that can help manage or relieve stress are terrific gift options, says Amin.
- Massage A massage gift-certificate could be a great gift idea provided the therapist is knowledgeable about AD and knows what products to avoid, says Amin. “Essential oils and any lotions or oils with fragrances aren’t a good idea and can be irritating,” he says. Virgin coconut oil, virgin sunflower oil, and jojoba oil are all good options for people with eczema or atopic dermatitis, according to the National Eczema Association.
- Manicure or Pedicure Again, finding the right salon or nail tech who is familiar with AD is key — the National Eczema Association recommends a Google search for “organic nail salon.” Avoid nail polishes with common allergens, and don’t opt for acrylic, dipped, or gel nails.
- Yoga Classes or Accessories A review published in the summer 2023 issue of the Indian Journal of Integrative Medicine found that yoga could have a significant role in managing symptoms of atopic dermatitis. A gift certificate to a local yoga studio, a Manduka yoga mat, or a subscription to online yoga classes (or all three) would be much appreciated!
6. Gadgets or Games That Keep You From Scratching
Anything that keeps the fingers busy can help minimize scratching, says Casselman. A fun fidget toy could be just what the doctor ordered. Etsy has thousands to choose from, many for $20 or less.
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