8 International Fashion Trends That Are Hot on Etsy

For anyone who has been bitten by the travel bug but can’t just pick up and go because *life*, hope is on the horizon. According to Etsy’s latest trend roundup, international fashion is on the rise. If you can’t get to it, it can come to you. Brush off that #wanderlust hashtag, and get to shopping.

1. Block Print Indian Textiles: According to Etsy, searches for “Indian fabric” and “block print” have gone up 16 percent and 11 percent since last year, respectively. The Meera Collar Dress ($60) by Moira Designs features a modern take on the traditional form of printmaking and ships from New Delhi.

2. Unlabeled Israeli Leather Goods: A lot of sleek and hand-tooled leather goods are emerging from Israel. With everything from shoes to backpacks, we’re loving the affordable price points and the craftsmanship. A perfect example is this pair of yellow booties ($103) by ShantiShoeDesigns.

3. Sculptural Spanish Jewelry: Thanks to their storied artistic and architectural culture that includes the likes of Gaudí and Miró, it’s no surprise that sculptural jewelry is all the rage in Spain. Etsy shop BayaBayaBaya specializes in these baubles, like this natural stone and gold-plated choker ($47).

4. Modern Lithuanian Linen: Searches for “linen” have jumped 20 percent from last year alone. Specializing in jumpsuits and boxy silhouettes, the shop OFFON is a go-to for this trend. We’re diggin’ their Turquoise Kimono Jumpsuit ($146).

5. Sustainable Australian Fashion: Australia is spearheading the eco-fashion trend, and they’re not compromising style for it, either. This adorable cactus print tote ($20) by enyajAustralia is made with 100 percent cotton and makes the perfect shopping companion, so you can ditch paper and plastic for good.

6. Contemporary Kenyan Baubles: A lot of Kenyan makers are mixing the old and the new in their jewelry, and Etsy buyers are wild about it. This statement beaded necklace ($16) by NamelokHandcrafts is inspired by traditional South African Zulu culture.

7. Luxe Italian Jewels: The latest craze out of Italy is accessories that evoke Old World opulence, like these hand-embroidered sequined earrings ($79) by ClassArte. It’s maximalism at its most.

8. Wooly Weaves from Uruguay: Tapping into their abundant resource of sheep, Uruguayan Etsy shop owners are churning out some gorgeous weaves and knits. This Gray Ombré Pashmina Wrap ($190) by texurable is made with handwoven Merino wool.

Would you try any of these looks? Tweet us @BritandCo!

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(Featured photo via ClassArte/Etsy)

The #1 tip I can give anyone to make your outfit go from simple and basic to elevated and chic: accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! These little accents that can transform your ensemble, giving it a more classy and fashionable look — especially when they're on-trend for the season!

This fall, there are so many stylish ways to elevate your outfit, from French Girl Fall ballet flats to boho chic western belts. And while all of these accessories match the moment, they're all so good that they could become staples in your wardrobe for years to come. So buckle up and grab your credit card because we've compiled a list of all of our current fave fall accessories to stock up on this season!

Fall Jewelry

Nordstrom

Nordstrom Cord Pendant Necklace

A statement necklace will take any simple outfit and instantly give it some character and class. This one here is what all the cool girls are wearing this fall — cord pendant necklaces! They're very reminiscent of the '90s, but they're back and better than ever this fall!

Revolve

Heaven Mayhem Icon Watch

Heaven Mayhem quickly solidified itself as an iconic and classic brand. They recently delved into the world of watches, they've already graced thousands of "It" Girl wrists with their timeless styles. Keep an eye out for this brand, because they're not going anywhere!

Revolve

Heaven Mayhem Gigi Earrings

Statement earrings are another Heaven Mayhem staple! In my opinion, these instantly make your look way more chic! I love some good statement earrings to make a simple sweater, boots, and jeans outfit appear more put together and classy. These pearl ones are great because they'll compliment any look you decide to wear this fall!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Pearl Bag Charm

The Jane Birkin-ifying your bags continues! Remember when you used to decorate your crocs with pins? This is the adult version of that! You can take fun charms like this one, and completely personalize all of your purses this fall! I love this trend, and definitely think it will be here to stay!

Fall Belts

Nordstrom

Madewell Leather Belt

A good quality, leather belt is an essential in every wardrobe, especially for the fall and winter months. This will immediately make your outfit look more polished and tailored — plus, you can take everything to the next level when paired with matching shoes or a bag! I definitely plan on purchasing this belt from Madewell — it's only $58! This one is a classic accessory that will last you for multiple seasons!

Nordstrom

Treasure And Bond Oversize Buckle Leather Belt

Boho chic is one of the top fall trends this year, and an essential component of that? Western wear. It's not quite a full yeehaw-core, but more of a subtle hint of cowboy mixed with more modern styles. This belt is perfect for that, giving you a sleek black leather paired with silver and teal accents.

Banana Republic Factory

Banana Republic Factory Leather Corset Whipstitch Belt

Another more modern take on western wear, this corset belt is incredibly chic! We've seen a lot of corsetry over the last few years, but this is a simple — and likely less restrictive — take on that. I could see this over a crisp white button down and some dark wide legged jeans to accentuate your style.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Buckle Belt

Everyone needs an accessory that gives them that pop of color to make their outfit go from "cute" to "CUTE!" This is that accessory for me. It has a unique shape so bonus point there, AND it also comes in this gorgeous, bright red — which is one of our fall trending colors this year!

Fall Bags

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Fiona Beaded Bag

A statement bag is another "must" on our list for fall 2024, and this beaded option from Anthro definitely fits the bill. It's a simple black bag, but the studded, gold heart detailing gives it a little character — which I love to add to my outfits! It's a fun way to inject some personality into your daily 'fits!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Horsebit Bag

Gucci, who? Anthropologie has entered the convo, and at a much, much cheaper price point. This horse-bit bag is all I can think about with its combination of perfectly vintage, and perfectly trending shape! It's truly the ideal statement piece to up the ante on any outfit! Obsessed!

Free People

Free People Bobbi Slouch Suede Tote

Slouchy bags are back and they're better than ever, TBH. This suede tote from Free People is one of my favorites this season, and it would go perfectly with the charms I talked about earlier! Grab this bag for that effortless je ne sais quoi!

Quince

Quince Italian Leather Trapeze Crossbody

This Polène dupe is honestly everything — and so much cheaper! You can get this TikTok-loved style for about 80% less, and it's genuine Italian leather. Plus, you can never have too many solid brown bags for the fall, if you ask me!

Fall Shoes

J.Crew

J.Crew Logan Mary Janes

These bright red shoes will make the perfect statement to accessorize your outfit with! The pop of red is my favorite way to add flair to my outfits this fall. You simply take an otherwise neutral or simple outfit, add these red shoes, and voila — instantly more fashionable. These satin mary janes will definitely help you to stay on trend.

Mango

Mango Cow Print Shoes

Cow print is my favorite up-and-coming trend this fall, and I know we'll be seeing more and more of it! If this animal print seems to be too much for you, then opt for these shoes that have a more mild cow-print on them. This lets you test the trend without it being too out of your comfort zone!

Target

Target Lonnie Kitten Heel Stretch Ankle Boots

Boots are always a nice touch to a fall 'fit, but these pointed toe kitten heels take it to the next level. Their sleek profile can go with just about any look, giving a more demure and mature touch to your style. Plus, who doesn't love an excuse to get more Target shoes?

Tecovas

Tecovas The Annie Boots

And for the final cherry on top of your fall accessories, these Tecovas boots are everything. Like I said before, western wear is the moment this year, and a classy pair of cowboy boots are a great way to take on the trend. This shade of "sequoia" brown is rich and luxurious, but just subtle enough to go with about anything.

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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.

In case you missed it, we’re wearing fun socks for fall. The fashion girlies are now ditching the basic white crew sock for more colorful styles, and I am so here for it! Fun socks – from stripes to shimmers – are such an easy way to spice up any ‘fit. Let ‘em show alongside your favorite fall sneakers, riding boots, loafers, ballet flats, and Mary Janes, and you’re well on your way to a unique look you’ll want to rock every single day. These 14 pairs of fun socks will undoubtedly earn you *all* the compliments this upcoming season.

Free People

HOiSUM Sunlit Stripe Sock

These rainbow-striped socks are the epitome of coziness. The knit is super tight, so your feet will also stay warm well into winter. These hit at the calf when they're fully pulled up, but you can definitely opt for the slouchy look for lower-profile shoes.

Urban Outfitters

Intarsia Bow Sock

These bow-dotted socks are the perfect feminine accessory to pair with ballet flats or Mary Janes, like pictured above. They boast a crew length, which you could also easily make work for boots or sneakers!

Urban Outfitters

Ariana Bow Crew Sock

Give me all the bows! These patterned crew socks emit sophisticated vibes, which wears well with any sort of flat or short heel. They also come in light pink or black to suit your personal style.

Free People

Plush Inside Out Crew Socks

These super-soft socks with an "inside out" look make the perfect 'laze around the house' piece. Both the heel and toe have a contrasting color to the main colorway. As comfy as they are, you'll definitely wanna show off the cute terrycloth construction with your go-to sneaks this fall.

Doublesoul

Lyssie Lovely Bow Ultrahigh Sock

These socks hit right above the knee, so they're gonna look so cute alongside some tall boots for fall time. They're made using organic cotton, recycled nylon, and eco-friendly dyes to deliver a fit that feels natural on your skin – never itchy.

Baggu

Baggu Crew Sock in 'Cherub Bows'

Baggu's sock collection is everything. They have so many different colors and patterns to choose from, though I think this navy and cream is great for any fall outfit.

Urban Outfitters

Lace-Trim Floral Crew Sock

These dainty crew socks flaunt some frills along the tops, perfect for peeking out of booties or sneakers. The material is fairly thin, so your feet can breathe.

Sock Candy

Sock Candy Bold Blue Floral Sheer Crew Sock

Sheer socks FTW! No one does sheer socks better than Sock Candy, plus their eccentric patterns are such an easy way to spice up your get-up. This bold floral design will stick out of your loafers or Mary Janes just enough to make a nice style statement.

Doublesoul

Caroline Neapolitan Ultrahigh Sock

This Neapolitan ice cream-inspired colorway is meant to be seen. This pair lands right above the knee, so they'll work wonderfully with tall boots or even a simple pair of loafers if you want to show more sock. I think this color combo is perfectly cozy for fall and opens up a lot of matching possibilities with other neutrals!

DSW

Crown Vintage Floral Scalloped Women's Crew Socks

If you want to dress up your fall shoes every day of the week, make sure to snag a set of fun socks ahead of the new season. This vintage-y collection from Crown Vintage is balanced between solids and patterns to keep you on your toes.

Urban Outfitters

Pinstripe Knit Crew Sock

The coziness! I can't get enough. These knitted socks look like the perfect pairing for the classic Birkenstock sandals, which is a total fall uniform for casual days.

Bombas

Bombas Lightweight Bow Quarter Sock 3-Pack

Keep the bow trend alive with this 3-pack set of socks from Bombas. The extra-long staple cotton this pair is made of hugs your feet just right, keeping them supported all day long. I'd absolutely style these socks with Adidas Sambas and a mini skirt for a 'fit that's equal parts feminine and sporty.

Baggu

Baggu Ribbed Sock in 'Beige Mix'

Baggu strikes again with this cute color-blocked pair. These are soft and stretchy while still retaining some nice thickness and structure for year-round wear!

Sock Candy

Celestial Shimmer Crew Sock

These crew socks are sheer magic, literally. They're spotted in celestial designs all while boasting a slight sheerness to let your feet breathe. To step out, I'd pair them with some basic sandal heels or even sneakers!

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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?

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

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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)