For people of color, there’s a story that remains largely untold: the silent challenge of sensitive skin and eczema affecting our communities.

Embracing the Beauty of Diversity

Distributing resources equally does not ensure everyone receives what they need specifically or equitably. This difference between equality and equity is a key driver of our mission to connect you to the right providers, giving you access to appropriate resources and care. At Health in Her HUE, we see you, we hear you, and most importantly, we are here for you.

The Silent Challenge: Eczema in Our Community

Eczema is notably the second-most common skin condition affecting Black Americans. 20% of Black children encounter some form of eczema, usually manifesting during their infancy and early childhood years, yet there is a significant lack of clinical research spotlighting how eczema presents itself on darker skin tones. This outage can often hinder timely and appropriate care.

For many, eczema is more than a dermatological concern. It’s a condition that’s more than skin-deep and doesn’t just appear on the surface. It’s the constant itch you can’t scratch, the need to hide patches of inflamed skin, and the unsolicited advice from others that chips away at one’s self-worth.

This condition does not just manifest physically. It’s a psychological battle. The skin, our body’s most expansive organ, acts as a mirror to our internal emotional landscape. When we are under stress, our skin both receives and reacts – silently communicating the story between our biology, nerves, hormones, and feelings. Our mind and skin share an embryonic origin, making them inextricably connected. Research on the mind-skin connection reveals that what we think, feel, and see significantly impacts our skin. Inflammation in the mind can often manifest as inflammation on the skin. Prolonged stress can exacerbate inflammatory responses such as eczema, and as we grapple with external judgments and internal emotions, our skin becomes a battleground for these struggles.

A Journey Toward Acceptance: Eczema and Self-Image

Eczema becomes a journey of self-acceptance and understanding by making peace with the skin and the story one sees reflected in the mirror. It’s a story that’s both personal and shared. Research has shown that those with atopic dermatitis (the most common type of eczema) confront daily challenges that others may not understand, from avoiding everyday activities to constantly worrying about their next flare-up. Eczema doesn’t just affect the individual, but also ripples throughout families, with parents and caregivers feeling guilt, exhaustion, and helplessness as they watch their children or loved ones wrestle with the condition. Understanding the nuances and acknowledging that eczema might present differently in melanin-rich skin is a step toward ensuring that everyone gets the care they deserve.

For all those who suffer with sensitive skin or eczema, whether visibly or silently, your experiences, your struggles, and your journey are valid. It’s time the world of healthcare sees and recognizes that. At the crossroads of hope and advocacy, we’re bridging the gap between understanding and ensuring that every hue receives proper care, attention, and representation, mirroring every shade’s authentic and unique reflection.

Aveeno^® Understands

At the intersection of advocacy, care, and knowledge stands Aveeno^®, a brand that’s just using research to inform the creation of oat-based skincare products, but also looking to make a true difference in the lives of those dealing with sensitive skin and eczema. With the SkinVisibility campaign, Aveeno^® is providing:

• Equity in Action: Through inclusive healthcare solutions and representation in clinical studies, Aveeno^® develops products that work on all skin tones. Their BIPOC Advisory Council provides invaluable insights to ensure their innovation is rooted in inclusivity.
• Healthier Communities: Aveeno^® provides an enhanced understanding of eczema in skin of color through research.
• Enduring Alliances: Aveeno® amplifies its commitment to equity by supporting Black-Owned Businesses in the skincare domain through their initiative The Startup Collective by Aveeno^®.

Empowering You: Resources and Steps to Navigate Your Skin Journey

Together with Aveeno^®, we’re amplifying the resources available related to skin health and tailoring them to the unique needs of those with melanin-rich skin.

• Join Our Family: There’s still time! Be among 500 to unlock a FREE Health in Her HUE *premium* membership. Elevate your health journey with instant and unlimited access to empowering community forums, exclusive and trustworthy health content, virtual/live on-demand community conversations, and a robust and uniquely curated provider directory. Don’t miss out – your next step toward a more radiant skin health journey is just one click away and starts TODAY!
• Empower and Educate Yourself: Take a deep dive into educational content curated by Health in Her HUE. Equip yourself with insights to understand and manage your skin conditions more effectively. For a head start, check out these recent pieces in our content library: “Aveeno^® and Health in Her HUE are Working Together to Address Skin Health Equity” [4 min read] and “Baby Eczema 101: Tips for Recognizing & Caring for Eczema on Skin of Color” [4 min read].
• Stay Observant: Be vigilant about your skin’s nuances. Jot down any symptoms you may experience like itching, discoloration, or any unusual rash.
• Find Your Skin Champion and Expert: Through the Health in Her HUE platform, discover a dermatologist or pediatric dermatologist who truly understands your skin’s needs.
• Come Prepared and Ready to Engage: Your dermatologist is here to help. Arriving with specific questions ensures a more productive discussion.
• Consistency is Key: Take charge and book follow-up appointments. Regular visits to your dermatologist mean proactive care for your skin’s health.
• Engage and Learn: If you missed our enlightening Aveeno^®-sponsored Community Conversation on sensitive skin solutions earlier this month, it’s not too late! Watch the replay on-demand to immerse yourself in the insightful discussion, learn from trusted industry professionals, and deepen your understanding of skin health.

Championing Change: For Every Shade and Age of Beauty

With commitment, collaboration, and care, we can pave a more radiant skin health path for all, making the skincare world not just about beauty, but health, understanding, and unity.

Stay tuned for more transformative resources and initiatives on our journey of raising awareness and redefining beauty through diversity, equity, and inclusivity—where every hue is seen, heard, healed, and celebrated.