24 Back-to-School Tech Accessories for Busy Girls Everywhere

While your days of scooping up fancy sets of colored pencils and rad Lisa Frank supplies may be in the past (or not), you’re never too old to update your tech swag. We’re not just talking the latest gadgets and doodads; a girlboss-approved work bag or sleek leather portfolio for your tablet can speak volumes in the boardroom as well as the lecture hall. Just think of the conversations you’ll start:“Where’d you get your fly ice cream phone case?” Say no more: We’ve found 24 snazzy tech accessories that will make back-to-school shopping a cinch for all you self-proclaimed busy girls.

1. Society6 Laptop Sleeve 13” ($36): This ‘90s-style laptop sleeve with a funky abstract print not only gives off serious Saved by the Bell vibes, but it’ll be a hit in class. Bonus points if you coordinate it with your favorite denim patchwork jacket and retro Converse kicks.

2. Poketo Minimalist Folio Large ($58): We can’t stop staring. This blush pink leather portfolio, perfect for both fellow art lovers and design babes alike, is a minimalist’s dream. This sleek carrier is large enough to tote around projects, papers, your iPhone and a laptop. Basically all the essentials (and then some) for a Friday spent working remotely at your favorite coffee shop or in your dorm room.

3. Lolli Swim Sprinkly Snack iPhone 6 & 6s Case ($29): Con you even show your face at school if you don’t have an iPhone case inspired by your favorite breakfast pastry? Decked out with confetti sprinkles, this pop-tart-inspired case is just the thing for students with a sweet tooth.

4. Ban.do Sticker iPhone 6 & 6s Case ($26): Adulting is finding a customizable iPhone case that can be curated to your #MOTD (mood of the day). Complete with rad stickers (!), this ban.do case allows you to express your love for ice cream, pizza and fries all in the same afternoon.

5. Ban.do The Power Trip Florabunda ($32): So much YAS. This floral wall plug and car charger set gives new meaning to the phrase “plug in and go.” We hate to be that millennial, but just think how stress-free it’ll be to always have a power pack within reach.

6. Charlotte Olympia Feline iPhone 6 Case ($292): When tech meets high fashion, this Charlotte Olympia feline iPhone case is the way chic result. The gold chain makes it a shoo-in for a much-needed night out or even the first week of BTS (‘cause you’re a trendsetter like that). DO pair it with your matching kitty flats for instant style cred wherever you go.

7. Free People Printed Earbuds ($20): Whether you’re working out, in the study zone or blocking out loud construction during your morning commute, a pair of these tie-dye earbuds will add some zest to your look. We’ll take three pairs, please.

8. Clare Vivier iPad Mini Notebook Sleeve ($150): Make things officially official with this striped monogrammable iPad case that’s fancy AF. Between group project sessions and internship meetings, this notebook sleeve is guaranteed to make a lasting first impression.

9. Sonix Evil Eye Pick Me Up Portable Charger ($45): We think we can all agree that there’s nothing worse than having your phone die on you during a call or text. Keep a case of the “low battery life” scares at bay with this glam portable charger that packs an additional 16 hours of battery life.

10. Anthropologie Idiom iPhone 6 Case ($30): Add some sass to your schoolin’ with one of these idiom cases that will take any seminar by storm. Whether you’re an English major or a grammar queen, you’ll never run out of excuses to whip out your tongue-in-cheek iPhone case.

11. Corners4 iPhone 6/6 Plus Corners ($43): Because a heavy-duty iPhone case isn’t enough to keep your phone out of harm’s way, these gold clip-on rods are to the rescue. You’ll never have to worry about a pesky scratch or scuff again. Why didn’t we think of this sooner?!

12. Free People Leather Keychain iPhone Charger ($26): Calling all girls on the go! This leather tassel not only doubles as a stylish keychain, but it’s also an iPhone charger with a portable USB cord. Can you say genius?

13. Cuyana Leather Laptop Sleeve ($125): Whether you’re just heading down the hall to study with a friend or trekking across campus to the library, this sophisticated laptop sleeve is sure to keep your computer safe and sound. Pssst: Play your cards right and it can even serve as a going-out clutch once happy hour rolls around.

14. Lulu Guinness Lipstick iPhone 6 Case ($56): Whether you’re interning in the beauty industry or swear by a signature red pout, you straight-up need this lipstick phone case in your life. Period.

15. Marc Jacobs Mixed Daisy 13″ Commuter Case ($130): See ya later, plain black laptop sleeve! Make a splash on the first day of your new big-girl job with this playful daisy-printed commuter case that won’t go unnoticed by the higher-ups. The hands-free detachable strap will be a godsend during spontaneous coffee runs and back-to-back-to-back classes.

16. Poketo Minimalist Office Bag ($94): Satisfy all your office needs with this streamlined bag that fits all your tech gadgets of choice. Give the world the impression that you have it all together — even if organized chaos is normally your jam. Major bonus: It even includes an exterior pocket for all your other random odds and ends (read: gel pens and spare USB cords).

17. Buqu Piña Pineapple USB Power Bank ($30): Why yes, that is a pineapple USB power bank that clips on to all your backpacks and totes with ease. It doesn’t matter if you’re stuck in five o’clock traffic or workin’ away at the beach (Labor Day weekend, y’all!) — this battery bank is the secret weapon in disguise you didn’t even know you needed.

18. Herschel Supply Co. Anchor Sleeve iPad Mini in Popsicle Pink ($30): Tech-savvy girls, unite! You can officially fuel your ice cream obsession with this popsicle print iPad mini sleeve that’s anything but blasé and corporate. It’s lined with fleece to ensure around-the-clock protection, even when you’re a walking zombie after cramming for exams. Phew!

19. Forever 21 Ankit Rainbow USB Wall Charger ($5): If it’s rainbow, we want it! Don’t underestimate the power of this prismatic USB wall charger that promises to keep all your devices charged. It would behoove you to keep one on standby (in your satchel, desk and cubicle) at all times.

20. Sonix Rose Bud Earbuds ($50): We can’t decide what we love more: the tangle-free nylon cable or the pink envelope-style pouch. A fancy-schmancy set of earbuds is non-negotiable for the #girlboss intern with places to go and people to see. That rose gold plating is everything.

21. Kate Spade 13” Neoprene Laptop Sleeve ($75): Channel gettin’-things-done vibes even on a mundane Monday with this cheeky “whistle while you work” laptop sleeve. Who wouldn’t want to make this their new mantra?

22. MochiThings Large La Chance Passe Smartphone Wallet ($48): Store ALL the things with this versatile wallet that’s made to fit your cards, dolla bills and smartphone. A built-in earphone opening makes jamming out to your favorite tunes (while simultaneously being stuck on the subway) a cinch.

23. This Is Ground Cord Taco 3 Pack ($29): The last thing you need to deal with during your morning commute is a slew of twisted earbuds and charging cables. That’s where these stylish leather cord tacos come in. Toss ‘em in your tote and keep ‘em at your desk the next time a tech snafu hits.

24. Disk Cactus Emoji Keyboard Cover + Software ($25): The moment you’ve been waiting for has arrived. Thanks to this silicon emoji keyboard, complete with custom software, you can secretly (or not-so-secretly) spam your friends with emoji-filled emails. This *could* be dangerous.

Which tech accessories are you dying to snatch up? Follow us on Pinterest for more BTS style inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Making your space feel like you is an essential part to your daily routine, whether that's at home or in your office. The places where you spend most of your day can have a huge impact on your everyday mood and life, even if you work in a cubicle. I'm a huge advocate for decorating any space, so I thought I'd share some of my favorite decor ideas from Amazon to help inject a little sunshine and personality into your everyday work life. Whether you work in an office, a tiny corner cubicle, or at home (like me), I've got just the items for you!

Amazon

Seenlast Lamp + Candle Warmer

I was gifted a lamp/candle warmer last year, and have been pleasantly surprised by how much I use it, and how much it transforms your space. It does a good job and making your desk feel that much more cozy, and at home. This essential will help make you feel at home even miles away at work.

Amazon

Auelife Fall Candle Set

A fall candle needs to be lit at all times for me to have complete zen. If a fall-scented candle is lit, I can truly get through any day no matter how stressful. This one is a 4 pack, so you can enjoy all the fun scents while they also act as a cute, decor piece!

Amazon

XXXFLOWER Plant Terrarium

Having real plants in your office can be a great step towards making your office feel more like home — or even cozying up your WFH setup — and have a more grounding energy. This may seem silly, but whenever I have plants or flowers around me, it just makes me feel more centered and at peace. So, I would highly recommend this cute terrarium as a decor piece on your desk to help you center yourself throughout the day!

Amazon

MDOZQ Memo Board for Notes

One thing I always keep nearby when I'm working? A memo board of some kind to display notes from my husband, loved ones, or friends. This is another great way to have peaceful reminders if you ever get stressed during an intense work day!

Amazon

Gannyfer Small Desk Organizer

A desk organizer does a great hob at categorizing some of your daily-use items while making them look more presentable at the same time. This one is one of my faves with home you can style it with all your most prized possessions. Add in your favorite books, knick knacks, and pictures for injecting some personality into your space!

Amazon

AZLTC Book Vase

This vase is so practical and so adorable! Like I mentioned before, having real flowers or plants are a huge energy shift in your space, and this vase is insanely cute! I love how it livens up your space, while looking chic doing it! Grab this essential on Amazon for only $7... I repeat: $7! Such a steal.

Amazon

Kootop Wireless Keyboard

Is anyone else on ASMR keyboard Tiktok?! Or is that just me... Because these click clack keyboards are actually my most recent obsession. I feel like they just help to make typing away at your computer seem fun. Plus, it looks oh-so-cute! This one's going home with me!

Amazon

Jetec Photo Display

As you can tell from my note display tendencies, I'm a severely sentimental person, so I not only have notes of my loved ones, but also photos! In every office, cubicle, or desk I've ever had, there's always been a photo display of polaroids for those that I like to remind myself of on a daily basis! Another simple edition that will make all the difference to your space. Plus, it fills a lot of space and can make your office seem more full.

Amazon

SKYDUE 360 Degree Rotating Desk Organizer

This desk has so many pros to it:

  • It is a great organizer to divide up pens, markers, and anything you need.
  • It rotates for easy access.
  • It looks super cute on your desk.
  • AND it's under $10.
What more could you want?!

Amazon

Lamicall Green Phone Stand

If you're someone like me, and needs to have your phone on standby for any various reasons like making calls, answers emails, or simply watching clips for work, then this phone stand is a life saver! It can charge your phone, all while sitting up right for easy viewing access. I like to have this by my computer whenever I'm working!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

There are so many items cluttering up our homes and lives, and if we're honest, sometimes asking for physical gifts feels like an unnecessary weight to add to the holiday season. All we really need this year is time with the people that our closest to us, and maybe the opportunity to experience something new.

If you're looking for out-of-the-ordinary gift ideas for your friends and family, look no further than these experience gifts. From one-of-a-kind adventures to super easy ideas that will fit into any budget, these experience gifts are sure to make anyone smile.

Experience gift ideas you haven't thought of for 2024:

Brit + Co

Take Them Ice Skating

Ice skating simply makes winter more magical. It also gives us a chance to live out our Ice Princess dreams – but that's beside the point. Even if you don't live somewhere that has an iconic rink like New York City's Rockefeller Center, you can still make it a whole evening with hot chocolate and cozy sweaters.

Buy Them Concert Tickets

Take your best friend or S.O. to their favorite artist's concert for an unforgettable evening. Not only do you get to hear some awesome music, but concerts are always an excuse to get dressed up in a crazy outfit and dance like no one is watching.

Blue Ox Studio

Visit An Aquarium

Something about walking around and looking at animals under the sea makes us feel extra calm, and is great for anyone who wanted to be a mermaid as a kid. Our favorites? Otters, beluga whales, and turtles, but we love regular old fish tanks, too. This is a great way to get a taste of summer while it's dang cold outside!

Give Them A B+C Classes Subscription

If your giftee loves to learn, then they'll get a kick out of a subscription to our online classes. There's something for every stage of life, with classes like painting and freelancing to learning how to combat imposter syndrome.

PNW Production

Go Hiking Together

This is one experience gift that is super easy and super affordable to pull off. You can hike in every state in the country (granted, your hikes might look different in the mountains than in a coastal town), plus you can pack a picnic of their favorite foods or grab takeout from their favorite local restaurant.

Pack A Beautiful Picnic

Speaking of picnics, they're on our list of favorite date ideas *and* an ideal way to spend any day. You can hire a picnic service (like this one for NY) to set up your table before you get there, but you can also go all-out yourself by packing a basket with their favorite foods, drinks, books, and flowers. If it's too cold (or it's pouring out!), set up your picnic indoors among some candles and a nostalgic movie.

Philipp

Book Some Travel

Travel is an experience gift that will rarely disappoint, especially if you're going to a dream destination. There are so many locations all over the world — big cities like London, historical homes like Biltmore, and even filming locations from your favorite TV shows and movies — this is always a good idea. You can also book AirBnB experiences of all kinds for wherever you choose to stay.

Gift A Language Class

With programs like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone, gaining access to other languages is easier than ever right now. It's never too late to pick up something new, whether or not you're living your Emily in Paris dreams. Bon voyage!

Don Hainzl

Ride A Hot Air Balloon

See the world from a totally new perspective by going up in a hot air balloon. You can take them at different times of day depending on the view that your giftee loves the most (we're always up for a sunrise adventure), and you can even book one that comes with wine.

Host A Photoshoot

This experience gift idea is totally up to interpretation. Whether your best friend or S.O. wants to be a model for a day with fun props and outfits, or your mom has been asking for a family photoshoot for the last few years, this is the perfect opportunity to gift a photoshoot! You can also turn this experience gift idea on its head and gift your family and friends a photography classthey can do from their home.

Pixabay

Bookstore

If your sibling, best friend, or S.O. loves books, take them to their favorite bookstore, buy them a coffee, and let them peruse the shelves for one (or more!) books that they want to get their hands on. This is a super simple idea that will certainly make them smile.

Cooking Class

If you've never taken a cooking or baking class before, then it's definitely time to add that to your list. Not only is it a fun activity that also rewards you with food, but it makes for a great experience gift, especially for recipients who love spending time in the kitchen.

SHVETS production

Dinner + Sailing

Rent your own sailing cruise for the evening to get a dining experience that's unlike any other. Eat dinner at sunset or wait until mid-morning for an extra-fun brunch. In addition to a gift idea, this also makes a great date idea. That's a win-win in our book.

Museum

Take your giftee to their favorite museum, and spend an entire day looking at their favorite paintings and sculptures, or reading up on scientific discoveries. This is one gift idea that's great for all ages, and since there are so many different museums across the country, you can have a different experience every time.

Photo By: Kaboompics.com

A Spa Day

As much as we love doing our own spa day at home, there's no denying that having someone take care of the self-care is really nice from time to time. If gifting a professional massage or facial is in your gift giving budget, just go for it. The relaxation will be well worth it, and your recipient will be thanking you for eternity.From personal experience, we definitely recommend gifting a massage from Hand & Stone, and a facial from Heyday

Escape Room

We're big fans of escape rooms, and we're convinced they're fun for anyone who wants to be a spy for an afternoon. It's great for a couple of people or for a whole group of friends, so you can get all your favorite people in on it. Plus not only is it fun, but having a time limit to solve a problem teach you about your communication styles very quickly.

Antoni Shkraba

Wine Tastings + Vineyard Tours

Take the wine lovers in your life to a nearby vineyard to experience the wine up close and personal with a wine tour. This is a great way to try multiple wines so you can figure out which one is your favorite.

Learn To Fly

Great for adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers, this experience gift idea takes you right up into the air. Learn to fly a plane or a helicopter over landscapes that you don't usually get to see from the air.

Let us know which experience gifts you'll be giving this year on Twitter and check out our email newsletter for more ideas.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

There's nothing like the pandemonium of back to schoolseason. Seeing all of the sales and kid-friendly collections made me excited to take on a new school year — and don't even get me started on academic planners.

Although it's been a long time since I've prepped for back to school, I get to spoil my nieces and nephews with new supplies to use in their classrooms. As luck would have it, The Happy Planner x Disney Hocus Pocus Collection is available and features bewitching items young kids can easily use. Also, this collection is perfect for igniting kids' Halloween spirit!

The Disney Hocus Pocus Gather 'Round Sisters - Be Happy Box ($55)

This Gather 'Round Sisters collection features an assortment of suppliesyour kids will love using. Whether your kid is in elementary or middle school, this collection will get them excited to hit the books. Included in the Be Happy Box are:

  • Classic-sized notebook
  • Filler paper
  • Stickers
  • Removable clings
  • Notepad
  • Bookmark
  • Pen pouch
  • Washi bundle

Here's a better look at what's in The Happy Planner x Disney Hocus Pocus Collection!

Classic-Sized Notebook

A new school year requires a classic-sized notebook to write promptsin. It's debatable what your kid may write but they'll be prepared for anything with this Hocus Pocus-inspired notebook.

Filler Paper and Removable Clings

Sometimes notebooks run out of paper. Knowing this, the Be Happy Box includes filler paper for so your little one can keep the writing party going. The clamps are also removable if they're getting in the way.

Stickers

We don't quite understand *why* everyone love stickers so much, but we're not mad about it. That's why we're positive your kids will love sticking these babies everywhere.

If you're lucky, your hand or arm may get a Hocus Pocus stamp of approval.

Notepad

If your kids have an aversion to planners, make a quick to-do list for them using a sheet from this cute notepad. They're less likely to miss it if you stick it on the fridge (*wink*).

Bookmark

This cute Thackery Binx bookmark is great for keeping track of notes or the bookpage your kid was reading during recess. We love how the pointy cat ears stick up at the top

Pen Pouch

Pen pouches save lives, and by that, we mean keep all your most-important pencils and gel pens in one place. This particular pouch is also roomy enough to store the "Trouble Is Brewing" notepad. In other words, it's a good storagesupply for kids who tend to lose track of their writing utensils.

Washi Bundle

For parents who may be wondering what a washi bundle is, we've got you covered. It's an adhesive tape that's extremely versatile *and* extremely cute. Your kids can stick it to any surface — like the notebook or notepad. If their class is assigned a mini Halloweenproject, your kid can even use the washi bundle as decoration!

Are you planning on buying The Happy Planner x Disney Hocus Pocus Be Happy Box?Let us know in the comments!

Header image via The Happy Planner

Did you know how common eczema really is? According to the National Eczema Association, "more than 31 million people" are living with this condition — including everyone in my household. If you've been dealing with flare-ups since childhood, you know how irksome it can be to find products that avoid flagging down our body's internal inflammation guide. Anything from extreme temperatures to itchy fabric can make our bodies say, "Attack the part of the body that's in contact with the intruder!" It can be something super small that turns into a fiasco, but we're not condemned to suffer forever.

I've been using the best body wash for eczema all yearDove's Soothing Relief Body Wash — and I can't wait to dish about it! But, I thought it would be helpful to learn more about the condition and why certain things make it go haywire. Board-certified dermatologists Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd and Dr. Kristina Collins were kind enough to share informative answers about eczema, including what they think you should be using if you're tired of not knowing what to use!

  • Dr. Woolery-Lloyd is an internationally recognized dermatology and wellness expert who serves as Director of the Skin of Color Division for the University of Miami Department of Dermatology.
  • Dr. Collins specializes in Mohs micrographic surgery, as well as surgical and cosmetic surgery, having earning her M.D. as valedictorian from Vanderbilt University.

Check out the best body wash for eczema here:

  1. Dove Soothing Relief Body Wash
  2. Vanicream Gentle Body Wash
  3. Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash
  4. Cetaphil Pro Dry Skin Soothing Wash
  5. CeraVe Soothing Body Wash
  6. Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash
  7. Kopari Hydrating Body Wash

The Best Body Wash For Eczema-Prone Skin

Target

This fragrance-free body wash stays in my shower not only because it's doesn't have pesky (and irritating) perfumes, but it's also super soothing. I feel like I'm at a spa each time I use it, and I've definitely noticed my skin isn't dry when I get out of the shower. It has a 5% nourishing serum in it along with colloidal oatmeal and was co-created by dermatologists who get it. The best part is that it not only does my skin look better, but I haven't experienced much body acne with it either. Plus, Amazon's customers less likely to return it!

Prior to using this, I was an avid Bath & Body Works body wash user. Before you throw tomatoes at me, I didn't know how much they were affecting my skin until I started doing more research in college. Once I learned better, I stopped using them and haven't looked back.

Another alternative to this is something Dr. Woolery-Lloyd suggests using — Dove's Sensitive Skin Body Wash. I used to use it prior to falling in love with Soothing Relief formula because it's hypoallergenic and equally moisturizing. It's just a little creamier!

Customer Reviews For Dove's Soothing Relief Body Wash

Target

Some of the top reviews on Amazon for this body wash are:

  • "I absolutely love this wonderful, silky, smooth, make you feel so sexy type of body wash! I have eczema & to find a body wash that works for me is saying A LOT! For having sensitive skin, I love how this is fragrance free, my skin is smooth & soft, not dry or dried out, not itchy, & great for after shaving, no razor bumps or redness!"
  • "This seems to have really improved my skin. It's great for sensitive skin."
  • "This has NO SCENT. Not even a weird “unscented” scent- you other itchy folk know what I’m talking about.
    Creamy but lathers like a dream and you only need like two pumps! Rinses off easily. Skin doesn’t feel dry or tight or… itchy! Like, at all! I will be ordering this over and over!"
  • "I have uber sensitive skin and have to be very careful in which products I use. This product feels really nice on my skin and has a positive, moisturizing and calming effect. I would highly recommend."

Shop The Best Body Wash For Eczema

Amazon

Dove Soothing Relief Body Wash

Other Great Body Washes For Eczema:

Amazon

Vanicream Gentle Body Wash

Dr. Woolery-Lloyd and Dr. Collins both recommend this body wash for those who have eczema: "It's free of dyes, fragrance, lanolin, and other common irritants.This product helps maintain moisture and reduce irritation, making it suitable for regular use," says Dr. Collins.

Amazon

Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash

Dr. Collins loves Aveeno's Skin Relief Body Wash because it "contains colloidal oatmeal, which is soothing and helps relieve itching."

Amazon

Cetaphil Pro Dry Skin Soothing Wash

"It's soap-free, fragrance-free, and designed for sensitive skin," says Dr. Collins.

More Eczema-Friendly Body Wash Recommendations

Amazon

CeraVe Soothing Body Wash

This body wash has more of an oil consistency because of the Omega Oils found in it. They help to add moisture back to dry skin while Niacinamide helps soothe it if you've been experiencing irritation.

Amazon

Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash

This hydrating body wash may start off as an oil, but it quickly forms into a rich, moisturizing lather that we love. Although it's not specifically designed for eczema-prone skin, but the good news is that it works for everyone. It has over 50% glycerin and phyto lipids in to help "maintain healthy skin barrier and acid mantle" so you'll enjoy something luxurious for only $16!

Amazon

Kopari Hydrating Body Wash

This hydrating body wash has moisturizing coconut water and sea kelp in it, making it the vegan option you'll be glad you tried. It also has aloe vera juice in it which helps maintain the skin's collagen.

What is eczema?

Kaboompics.com

Eczema isn't necessarily a secret, but not everyone knows how it's actually defined or characterized. Both Dr. Woolery-Lloyd and Dr. Collins agree that eczema is also referred to as atopic dermatitis. Dr. Collins says, "It's a chronic skin condition characterized by inflamed, itchy, and often red or discolored patches on the skin. It can affect people of all ages but is commonly seen in children." The Asthma & Allergy Network reports "15-20% of children globally" have it which seems to coincide with the CDC discovering "nearly 1 in 5 children have a seasonal allergy." Dr. Woolery-Lloyd adds, "It tends to run in families." This makes sense because my mom had eczema, passed it on to me, and now my son has it!

She also says, "People with mild eczema may experience persistent dryness and itchiness, while more severe cases can lead to painful, cracked, and even bleeding skin." While it's not central to one location, Dr. Woolery-Lloyd says eczema commonly shows up "inside of the elbows, behind the knees, and the face."

Some cases of eczema differs from others, but it can become severe. The reason it exists in the body is because of "a dysfunction in the skin barrier" that leads to "an increased loss of moisture and heightened sensitivity to external irritants, allergens, and microbes," Dr. Collins expounds.

What triggers eczema flare-ups?

Keira Burton

I briefly mentioned some things that can trigger eczema flare-ups, but they're not all encompassing. Dr. Collins says, "Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by several factors, including environmental irritants (like certain fabrics, soaps, and fragrances), allergens (such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen), stress, dry or cold weather, and even certain foods in some individuals."

If your dermatologist suspects you may be allergic to something you're eating, they may want you to take an allergy test. This is how I found out I was allergic to a ton of environmental factors, cats, and dogs! But why does this happen, you ask? "The skin’s barrier function is compromised in eczema-prone individuals, making it more reactive to these external and internal triggers," says Dr. Collins. So, it's rarely your fault when your skin gets triggered!

Dr. Woolery-Lloyd also says "emotional stress can exacerbate eczema symptoms" as well! This is usually my first sign that I'm super stressed or heading towards burnout!

How can someone with eczema care for their skin during cooler months?

Kaboompics.com

My son has been seeing a dermatologist for the past couple of months, and she's made it clear that he needs to not only avoid certain factors (fragrances, itchy fabrics, etc), but she also let us know his skin actually requires we add other elements to his routine, too. Both Dr. Collins and Dr. Woolery-Lloyd want you to stay as moisturized as possible.

Dr. Collins says, "During cooler months, it’s essential to focus on hydrating and protecting the skin barrier." Her tips are to"

  • Moisturize regularly with rich, fragrance-free creams or ointments.
  • Use a humidifier indoors to combat dry air.
  • Take lukewarm showers and avoid hot water, which can further dry out the skin.
  • Wear soft, breathable fabrics to avoid irritation, especially when layering.
  • Avoid long showers, as prolonged exposure to water can dehydrate the skin.
Dr. Woolery-Lloyd echoes her sentiments. "In the winter, people with eczema should consider switching to a more hydrating moisturizer to combat dry winter skin and prevent an eczema flare. Reapplication of the moisturizer is also important. This is especially important for the hands since taking gloves on and off on windy winter days can cause the hands to be especially vulnerable to dryness and eczema."
In other words, keep your moisturizer handy because you never know when you'll need to reapply it throughout the day!

Which products and ingredients should people with eczema avoid?

Bruno Cervera

Over the years, I've learned that anything that has artificial fragrances in them tends to trigger itchy and splotchy hives. Sometimes they're tiny clusters, but they can look like welts if my skin is super irritated. Dr. Collins says, "Individuals with eczema should avoid products with harsh fragrances, alcohol, sulfates, and synthetic dyes, as these can irritate the skin further." Also, sodium lauryl suflate (SLS) is also good to avoid because it "can strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness," explains Dr. Collins. Sadly, she feels you shouldn't use popular "exfoliating ingredients" like salicylic acid or retinoids because they "can be too harsh for sensitive, eczema-prone skin."

A list of other things Dr. Woolery-Lloyd wants you to avoid are:

  • Harsh surfactants - Harsh surfactants, such as sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
  • Alcohol - Alcohol can be drying to the skin, which can worsen eczema.
  • Essential oils - Essential oils can be irritating to the skin and can trigger a flare-up of eczema.
  • Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) - Acids in skincare can be irritating to eczema-prone skin.
  • Dyes - Dyes can sometimes irritate eczema-prone skin and can trigger a flare-up of eczema.

She encourages you to "read product labels carefully."

What are good eczema-friendly body washes?

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Knowing this, both Dr. Collins and Dr. Woolery-Lloyd want you to use a body wash that's going to cleanse your skin instead of hurting it. "For eczema-prone skin, it’s best to choose gentle, fragrance-free body washes that are formulated to support the skin barrier," says Dr. Collins.

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With the holidays now approaching almost eerily quickly, you might already be feeling slightly uneasy about the family stresses that are bound to be on your plate (along with delicious Christmas cookies, of course). Spending a lot of time face-to-face with family can dig up old arguments or squabbles that everyone may have forgotten during the rest of the year.

Learn the 8 best ways to support your friend while they're in the middle of family drama

You’re not the only one dealing with the drama, though, and while your own family issues might feel somewhat out of your control, there might be more you can do to take the edge off the stress that your friends are feeling in anticipation of holiday gatherings. Keep scrolling for eight expert tips for how to best offer support to your most stress-ridden BFFs.

1. Listen without judging if your friend reveals an ongoing argument about a family will

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Being a good listener is one of the most basic — and yet most important — things you can do as a friend 365 days of the year, but when tensions run high near the holidays, those listening skills become all the more crucial. You might even consider resisting the urge to speak, like, at all. “Be a good listener and don’t give advice,” licensed marriage and family therapist Katie Ziskind says. “Supporting someone doesn’t mean that you have to fix their problem. Instead, truly being supportive means giving a hug when someone is crying and being a caring friend.”

2. Prep your pal to expect drama if your uncle's invited his new girlfriend and ex to dinner

Rather than reassuring your friend that things at family celebrations may not be as bad as they fear, trust what they know about the situation and help them wrap their head around what’s to come. This should minimize the stress for them in the long run. “If you expect it and it happens, situation normal,” certified life coach Susan Golicic tells us. “If you expect it and it doesn’t, well, then, a bonus!”

3. Help your bestie make a plan in case their fight-or-flight mode gets triggered

Going into any situation with a plan almost always feels better than going in unprepared. Per writer, speaker, and healing expert Alisa Zipursky, a helpful plan might include specific check-in times, a code word that indicates your friend needs extra support, and ideas for creating healthy boundaries with family members who make them feel especially triggered. “The idea is to make asking for help as easy as possible,” Zipursky says. “Making sure a proactive plan is in place well before someone enters the stressful situation can help relieve some of the anticipatory anxiety.”

4. Check in often by sending your friend periodic texts 

Licensed counselor Maria Inoa recommends that you prioritize regular touch-base texts over the course of whatever event is causing your friend the most stress. It’s not about solving the conflicts or taking away their pain. Instead, you can focus on offering gentle reminders that you are thinking of them and are available if they need you.

5. Create a new tradition that revolves around you and and your bestie's favorite Christmas movies

If your friend’s family holiday celebrations don’t exactly inspire positive feelings about the occasion, why not help them establish some better associations? Licensed clinical professional counselor Anna Poss suggests planning a “low-stress, fun way to celebrate with each other before or after the actual holiday.” Get a seasonal movie night or cookie swap on the calendar before everyone leaves town to hang with family. Those cozy vibes may help dull the negative, anxious feelings.

6. Write down words of affirmations for them to look at

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Grab some pretty stationery and put your love and support on paper for your BFF. “In the note, remind her how strong, courageous, and capable she is,” licensed psychotherapist and life coach Diane Petrella says. “Let her know how much you love and admire her and how grateful you are for her friendship. Write whatever you think your friend needs to hear to feel supported, grounded, and loved.” Remind her to hide the note in her pocket or bag so she can read it whenever she needs a little extra TLC over the course of the holidays. You can even go one step further and send them home with a care package, per therapistShannon Thomas.

7. Invite your friend to your family celebration

If things have gotten so bad with your bestie’s family that she wants to steer clear of their celebrations entirely, you may want to invite her to join you and your crew instead. Even if she opts to decline your invitation, it will mean a lot to her to know that she has choices. If your friend does take you up on the offer, Mountainside Treatment Center‘s family wellness manager Tina Muller recommends that you try to incorporate some of her favorite traditions into your holiday schedule.

8. Keep your phone nearby if your friend needs to talk about everything that happened

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“Before an event with possible family issues even happens, schedule a time not long after to see the friend,” marriage and family therapist Sarah Epstein suggests. “Now you’ve become the light at the end of the tunnel for them.” Be prepared to be a listening ear over dinner or a workout session so your pal can vent about everything that’s gone on and (hopefully) be ready to move on from there.

How do you and your pals support each other through the not-so-fun parts of the holidays? Tweet us @BritandCo.

(Photo via Getty)