14 Home Decor Instagram Accounts With Stories That Are Actually Worth Following

Since Instagram introduced its stories feature, we’ve been gifted with a ton of behind-the-scenes action from some of our favorite home decor tastemakers. There’s a huge variety of tastes and styles out there to satisfy any sensibility, so we found 14 of our favorites for you. Before and after transformations, inside looks into design details and luxurious locales abound from the stories of these fabulous feeds. So if more home decor inspiration will make you happy, then you’re about to be the happiest Instagrammer the internet ever did see. Scroll on to find your next fix.

1. @carleypage: If you’re among the many of us who are in love with the magic a plant-filled jungalow can bring, then this feed is your Motherland. Check out her stories to see artful shots of how she acquires all of her special home goodies.

2. @houseofhipstersblog: Vintage finds paired with modern pieces are the foundation of this beautifully curated ‘gram. And if you keep an eye on their stories, your eyes will be greeted with all sorts of sweet decor treasures.

3. @brittkingery: Vibrant colors and bold textiles make up this blogger’s feed. If your space could use a little more spice, definitely check her out for inspo.

4. @homepolish: If seeing a beautifully designed room lights up your spirit, then you’ll be feeling every type of wonderful as you give these folks a gander. Behind-the-scenes studio and design tours abound in their stories, so you can figure out how to apply their skills to your own abode.

5. @apartmentf15: Oh hello, rich colors and worldly patterns. Find out how to add more global goodness to your nest by getting to know this Instagram account that even Jungalow queen Justina reposts!

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always a happy space to be working.

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6. @sfgirlbybay: Candy-coated colors, delicious decor details and inspiring locales shine brightly from this gorgeously designed ‘gram. And her stories give you an inside look into how she makes it all happen.

7. @hunted_interior: Both the stories and the feed of this decor guru’s Instagram bring a whole bunch of ideas and inspiration to hungry eyes. DIY enthusiasts and craft queens will be especially delighted by all of the do-it-yourself tips and tricks.

8. @claire_brody: This Austin-based interior stylist and design blogger is all about making the most of the space you’re in. If you’re looking for ways to bring your abode to the next level, look no further.

9. @theeverygirl_: Food, fashion and home design? Yes, please. An eclectic mix of eye candy makes this feed shine. Plus, there are plenty of before and after shots in her stories for those of us who love a visual transformation.

10. @studiomcgee: If you love to see the design process in action — from conception to product picks to the final design — then these stories will satisfy you to no end. Theirs is a bright and beachy aesthetic sure to brighten up even the gloomiest of days.

11. @amberinteriors: Pretty patterns and warm designs make these stories sing. Add cute cameos from a sweet pup and what you have is a feed worth following.

12. @witanddelight_: Whites, florals and bright pops of color will greet you from this ‘gram. For those delighted by clean, cute and curated, this is your mecca.

13. @inadesignerhome: Modern minimalism sets this Australian designer’s stories on fire. It’s an artful glimpse into decor from down under, and it’s all sorts of inspiring.

14. @simplygrove: Want to see a superior stylist in action? Then you need this account in your life. There are transformations, tips and tricks for all sorts of style sensibilities.

Looking for more home decor inspo? Follow us on Pinterest!

It's no secret that you have a crush on calligraphy, and we can't blame you. There's just something about hand-lettering that makes wedding details a little more personal (and a lot more pretty). Just the image of your guests each receiving that hand-written envelope is enough to fulfill all of your bridal dreams. For all the best inspo, check out these 15 wedding calligraphy gurus on Instagram. Your feed is about to have you double-tapping all day long.

1. @whimsydesignstudio: This feed is filled with some seriously pretty photos. Specializing in wedding signage, Meagan of Whimsy Design Studio is a calligraphy pro. There isn’t a surface that she hasn’t touched with her gorgeous handwriting.

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hand painted + pink + watercolor = 👌🏼

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2. @lauren.saylor: Watercolor and calligraphy are a bride's best friend. These sophisticated stationery and styling 'grams will have you scrolling for inspiration for hours.

3. @shannonkirsten: Shannon’s unique take on illustration and hand-lettering will make your wedding invites pop. As a bonus, she turns her illustrations into gift wrap — perfect for all the parties you get invited to as newlyweds.

4. @partysally: If you're in need of chic place cards with a personalized flair, then Katherine is your girl. She puts an elegant spin on Southern class and will help make your wedding day oh-so-pretty!

5. @sugarandchicshop: Everything from mirrors and chalkboards to pumpkins and stamps can be adorned with handwritten calligraphy for customized wedding decor. Just pick a surface and Sugar + Chic has decorated it! Follow this Insta for inspo on ways to take calligraphy even beyond your invites.

6. @annerobincallig: Bright details, gorgeous lettering and swoon-worthy events are just a few things that Anne shows off. You’ll instantly fall in love with the pops of color that pepper her feed.

7. @fleurdeletters: This LA-based artist makes calligraphy look easy. Scroll through to find hand-lettered wedding details, inspirational quotes and a seriously cute baby bump.

8. @missmultee: Tina’s love for paper and ink barely scratches the surface of her design talents. Follow her to find photos of awesome drawings, wedding decor and her adorable dog, Izzy.

9. @laurenessl: If you're as obsessed with color as we are, then this account is a must-follow. You can even take her calligraphy class to learn how to make your own custom cards!

10. @lhcalligraphy: All hail the queen of calligraphy. You won’t be able to stop staring at Laura’s gorgeous work as you double tap every photo she posts.

11. @castcalligraphy: Handwritten lettering adds a personal flair to your wedding invites — especially if they are embossed. Cast Calligraphy knows exactly how to make an invitation suite look like a million bucks.

12. @meanttobedc: The world is your oyster when you have Michele to inspire your wedding calligraphy. Add a whole lot of meaning to your big day with custom decor that your guests will love.

13. @openinkstand: Your wedding just got a whole lot prettier. With intricate and elaborate calligraphy, Schin Loong’s account will inspire you to make your menus, invitational suites and wedding signage look extra fancy.

14. @writtenwordcalligraphy: Pretty pastels fill this feed of destination wedding invitations. Follow Karla Lim to daydream about faraway places and fairy-tale love stories.

15. @layersofloveliness: Every last wedding detail is covered in this swoon-worthy feed of calligraphy and wedding decor. The gorgeous illustrations and photographed close-ups make this Instagram feed an easy favorite.

Check out all things Brit + Co Weddings, and follow us on Pinterest for more beautiful and creative wedding inspo.

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:

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Linen closets get no love. They're often skipped over during spring cleaning and organizing frenzies and can easily overflow when they're the place of last resort for all of the extra products, old towels, and threadbare sheets. Since life has completely shifted to being at home, it's time to move “organize linen closet" to the top of your priority list, and these stunning photos are just the motivation you need. It's time to take back your closetand transform it into a functional space that holds everything you need *and* makes things easy to find. Keep scrolling for the inspiration for your linen closet dreams come true!


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1. Get green. Have a linen closet without a door? We are obsessed with the idea of adding a plant to give your space a fresh, calm feeling. Just don't forget to water it every now and then!

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2. Clean and Clear. A lot of linen closets double as a medicine cabinet, a situation that can easily turn into chaos. By giving everything a home in clear bins, you'll be able to find exactly what you're looking for without rummaging to the dark, back corners of the closet.

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3. Better with Baskets. Simple baskets that alternate sides on every other shelf provide a sense of visual balance. They also make it easier to keep your towel piles from looking messy and disorganized. Win-win!

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4. Mix and Match. We love the way all the different containers in this linen closet harmonize. Create a hodgepodge with whatever you have lying around the house to make your shelves look more organized.

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5. Box It Up. We're all for hiding the clutter in the most organized way possible, and using labels and storing your products in groups will make any organizing task seem so much more achievable.

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6. Labels, labels, labels. Break out your sharpie to give each category its own individual cubby. Finding a spare sheet or extra set of towels couldn't be easier.

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7. White Out. We're totally crushing on this all-white-everything linen closet. The dark gray door and mermaid hook give it the extra contrast that had us double-tapping the moment it showed up on our feed.

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8. Add Ons. Adding pastel baskets gives your closet that perfect pop of color. And putting hanging baskets on the inside of the door keeps teeny things corralled.

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9. Shelf Appeal. Don't have built-in shelves? Make them with a rack that fits snugly inside your linen closet. Adding your own means that you can personalize the spacing too.

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10. Room to Grow. Give everyone in your family their own bin so everything stays where it belongs and doesn't creep back out.

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11. Striped Situation. Hellooooo, color blocking! The horizontal lines on these baskets (and sheets!) make us want to take a seat and stare at this closet all day long. And the different sizes work are perfect for all of your organizational needs.

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12. No Linen Closet, No Problem! Just create your own with a cool cabinet to store all your bits and bobbles. We love the look of this closet within in a closet!


Follow us on Pinterest for more decor and home organizing tips.

This article has been updated from a previous post.

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

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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?

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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?

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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?

Amazon

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

RDNE Stock project

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)