I've had eczema since I was 2 years old. The older I get the more severe it has gotten. It's been extremely challenging and it affects me on the daily. I have it all over my body in different areas. It's very itchy, painful, and uncomfortable. I cry at night sometimes because of how horrible it makes me feel physically. It's hard to create when you are in pain. At first, I didn't talk about it often but I noticed that whenever I did that there's always someone that is thankful to know that they are not alone. One thing about me as an Artist is that I'm transparent about who I am and some of the challenges I've faced in life. It allows me to connect with my audience more. You never know who you may touch and inspire.
Living with eczema can be a challenge, but being an artist with eczema can be even more challenging. As an artist, your hands are your most valuable tool, but eczema can make it difficult to create art. However, despite these challenges, being an artist with eczema can be a source of inspiration and motivation for others.
First, let's talk about what eczema is. Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, allergies, and environmental factors. For many people with eczema, the condition can be unpredictable and can flare up at any time, making it difficult to manage.
For an artist, eczema can be particularly challenging. Artistic mediums such as paint, clay, and ink can cause skin irritation and flare-ups, making it difficult to work on projects. The constant washing of hands to prevent infection and the use of topical creams and ointments can also take a toll on the skin, making it difficult to use your hands for prolonged periods.
But despite these challenges, being an artist with eczema can also be a source of inspiration. As an artist with eczema, you have a unique perspective and experience that you can use to create art that resonates with others. Your art can show the beauty in imperfection and can inspire others to embrace their own differences.
Moreover, as an artist with eczema, you can also raise awareness about the condition and advocate for more resources and support for those who have it. By sharing your personal experience and journey with eczema, you can help others who are struggling with the condition feel less alone and more supported.
So how can you manage eczema as an artist? First and foremost, it's important to prioritize your health and well-being. This means taking breaks when needed, avoiding triggers that can cause flare-ups, and following a skin care routine that works for you. Deep research, focusing on your mental & physical health, and staying as creative as you can be are key.
In addition, as an artist with eczema, it's important to be patient and kind to yourself. Eczema can be frustrating and unpredictable, but by taking the time to care for yourself and your skin, you can still create beautiful art.
Being an artist with eczema is a unique challenge, but it's also an opportunity to inspire others and create meaningful work. By embracing your own differences and sharing your story, you can help others who are struggling with eczema feel supported and empowered. So keep creating, keep inspiring, and keep being you.
Key Points on the Difficulties of Eczema:
Being an artist with eczema can be difficult for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the main challenges that artists with eczema may face:
Skin irritation: Artists with eczema may experience skin irritation when working with certain materials, such as paint, clay, or ink. These materials can cause redness, itching, and inflammation, which can be uncomfortable and distracting.
Hand washing: To prevent infection and manage eczema symptoms, it's important for artists with eczema to wash their hands frequently. However, the constant washing can dry out the skin and make it more prone to flare-ups.
Topical treatments: Many people with eczema use topical creams and ointments to manage their symptoms.
However, these treatments can be greasy and can interfere with an artist's ability to work with their hands. I wear 100% cotton gloves and breathable gloves for this reason. It keeps the moisture in. At some events you may see me wear them for protection and comfort.
Flare-ups: Eczema is a chronic condition, and flare-ups can occur at any time. Flare-ups can be unpredictable and can make it difficult for artists to work on projects consistently.
Emotional impact: Living with eczema can be emotionally challenging, and artists may experience feelings of frustration, anxiety, or self-consciousness. These emotions can interfere with an artist's creative process and make it difficult to focus on their work.
Overall, being an artist with eczema can be difficult due to the physical and emotional challenges of managing the condition. However, with the right tools and support, artists with eczema can still create beautiful and meaningful work.
It's all about consistency. I've been pushing myself outside of my comfort zone and learning as much about how to heal myself while making this year my most successful and creative one. Eczema cannot stop me from my goals. If you are an artist with eczema or any skin condition try your best everyday. I'm so proud of you. You are not your ailments. Continue being wonderful and stay creative.
Love, Bri.
Creative Angel's Artwork