13 Pet-Inspired Decor Pieces You Need in Your Life ASAP

You love your pet — so much so that you even have an adorable picture of them that’s been hanging up for years. But recently, you’ve noticed that it’s starting to fade and get lost amongst all the other wall art you’ve collected. Mementos of the non-human who adores you more than anything in the world are important, so there’s no excuse for letting that faded shot hang any longer. Gift yourself (and Fido) a pet portrait that’s as unique and lovable as they are. Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or have had Fluffy for years, these buy or DIY ideas are must-haves for any animal lover.

As February comes to a close, you may or may not have spring cleaning on the brain. If you feel like someone flipped a switch and reminded you that this new season is coming — and quickly — you're not alone. As much as we excitedly tried to usher in a new year, it feels like spring is the true refresh we all need. So while we all plan for our spring cleaning...and inevitable redecorating...we're eyeing Target wall art to help our homes look the part! Scroll for Target wall art inspo for every room in your home to see how you can refresh things this spring!

Floral Target Wall Art

Amanti Art White Bouquet by Julia Purinton Framed Canvas Wall Art

We can hear Miranda Priestly rolling her eyes and saying, "Florals for spring? Groundbreaking," but this custom canvas painting has a welcoming aura that's perfect for your entryway. It has a hint of whimsical romance due to Julia Purinton's use of glaze, acrylics, and oils.

Modern Blue Vase II By Farida Zaman

This modern, minimal floral art from Target is so calming. It could work well in just about any room, but I'd love to see it in a gallery wall wherever it lands. The navy blue paired with the gold frame is elegant, yet simple enough to compliment any other art and photos around it.

Amanti Art Natural Bouquet I Gray by Julia Purinton Framed Canvas Wall Art

If you want to tend to plant babies without having to deal with keeping them watered, this natural bouquet painting makes for a great addition to your kitchen. The terracotta, peach, and charcoal grey vases house beautiful stems that'll brighten your kitchen.

Spring Florals By Marisa Anon

These bold flowers are a fresh and fun way to take on florals as the weather warms up! The playful lines and bright colors could seem childlike, but the abstract nature of it all is extremely chic. Grab this if you're looking to make a statement!

Floral Spring Framed Wall Art - Threshold Designed With Studio MgGee

It's no secret that I love Studio MgGee, so I'm not surprised that I completely adore this dainty floral duo. The mustard yellow of the background is bold, but it's also neutral enough to fit into most spaces. Plus, these delicate little flowers will add a touch of whimsy to your space.

Amanti Art Blue Spring II by Isabelle Z Framed Canvas Wall Art

But, keep it simple with a painting that's designed with spring in mind like this framed Target wall art. The navy blue flowers will bring a smile to your face as you sip coffee by the window and listen to the birds chirp their happy spring song.

Threshold Antique Floral Framed Canvas Board

This painting may have a moody aesthetic, but it's only because spring can be moody. Whether you're embracing a sunny or rainy day, this wall art will bring a touch of Bridgerton elegance into your home.

Threshold Orchid Flowers Framed Wall Art

Add a pop of color to your hallway with these orchid flowers wall art by Threshold. The walnut brown frames nicely contradict the painting, creating a rectangular shape that's sure to grab your attention when you walk by.

Kate & Laurel Blake Botanical 5F Framed Printed Glass by Amy Peterson

Tired of looking at paintings? Spruce up your hallway with this framed Target wall art that features a botanical leaf. It's simple, yet colorful enough to give your walls a little personality.

Amanti Art Sweet Lemonade by Isabelle Z Wood

Your office should be as fun and creative as you want it to be. After all, you need a little inspiration to get work done so hang this sweet lemonade painting in a spot you can easily see it.

Scenic Target Wall Art

Threshold Summer Pasture Framed Wall Art

Target wall art is known for either being beautifully understated or bold, which is why this painting can be another focal point of your entryway.

Warm Colors Scenic Landscape Framed Canvas

These bright, warm colors are the perfect addition to liven up your living room. I love how it's paired with a natural looking wood to bring out the more neutral colors, too. It allows the piece to blend in or stand out as you wish!

Laundry Day II By Grace Popp

So much scenic wall art tends to be landscapes and beaches, so I'm totally hear for this little slice of life we're getting with "Laundry Day II" by Grace Popp. The bright, bold colors are gorgeous, bringing you right into the charisma of wherever this scene is.

Silent Still Framed Wall Cotton Canvas Board

Nobody's heard from Claude Monet since this "Silent Still" went on sale at Target. For less than $30, you can get this tranquil scene that could arguably hang in your favorite museum.

Abstract Target Wall Art

Olivia & May Set of 2 Contemporary Abstract Framed Wall Art

Your mind may not think of the color black when you dream of spring, but contemporary, abstract wall art is known for accentuating neutral living room decor. When you open your blinds, the sunlight will reflect off this set of paintings and creating a welcoming environment for you and guests.

Paper Object No. 5 By The Miuus Studio

This simple use of shapes is so incredibly effective. The dark, halved circle draws your eyes right to the center, with the lines leading you outward as you look on. That effect makes "Paper Object No. 5" the perfect addition to your gallery wall, IMO.

Color Blocks Framed Wall Canvases

These framed wall canvases certainly make a statement with their colorful nature. Filled with shades of yellows, blues, and reds, the primary colors shine in their simplicity.

Megalith I By Jacob Green

"Megalith I" is giving the midcentury look of my dreams. I could totally see this pairing perfectly with a modular sofa or a conversation pit out in 60s California. While that's not my house now, a girl can dream, right?!

Sylvie Japandi Set Of 3 Framed Canvases

I've said it once, and I'll say it again: navy and gold really are everything. This set of 3 canvases is crisp, clean, and honestly so cute. Put it in your hallway, your office, or wherever you see fit — they're versatile enough to really go anywhere you want!

Kate & Laurel Sylie Thinking Of You Framed Wall Art by Rachel Lee Natural

This framed print makes for a great addition to your bedroom because it features a blend of pastel colors that accentuate the outline of a woman's body. We like to think it's a reminder that your room is your safe space.

Target Wall Decor Accents

Hand Woven Jute/Polyester Wall Art With Wooden Dowel

Woven accents are wonderful ways to add some texture to your walls. The earthy browns will bring a natural, grounded sense to your space.

Olivia & May Metal Sunburst Wall Decor with Capiz Accent

Or, take a nod from the sun's rays by adding this metal sunburst wall decor to your hallway. It'll serve as a bright spot when your days feel dreary.

Project 62 Mid-century Metal Wall Decor

Not a fan of having metal wall decor in your hallway? Leave it for your office instead! This mid-century design by Project 62 is under $100 and will pair well with the rest of the decor you've picked out.

Cosmoliving by Cosmopolitan Metal Abstract Wall Decor

Craving a little more glam? Cosmoliving by Comopolitan has something you may like. It features interlocked oblongs that create an abstract design that'll set the tone for your office.

Pillowfort Rattan Arch Leaf Kids' Shelf

This is technically a kids' shelf, but we'd like to think you can use it as wall art. Rattan is comforting for different reasons and feels like it complements the carefree nature of spring, so why not have a piece of it at home?

Looking for more home decor inspo? Be sure to check out our Amazon storefront, too!

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

Lead image via Target

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.

Finding art that you love, from bold abstracts to breezy landscapes, can make a creative and personalized impact on your space. Sure, your home decor can be inspired by the latest trends but art is the element that really brings your unique style home. Whether you have an extensive art collection or are just starting to curate one that expresses your creativity, Singulart is an online art and design gallery that makes buying art online super easy. Search through their collection of 30,000 artworks and find stunning one-of-a-kind art based on your budget, style preferences, orientation needs, and more.

Indies by Hervé Perdriel, France, 2019 Giclée print on Paper, 39x39in

Here, we curated a few gems from the original art gallery. Plus, find tips for creating a dreamy art collection that expresses your personal style. From mixing styles to making the most of color and texture, we’ll help you confidently build a collection that brings joy and inspiration to your space.

Blumenmuster XXVII by Karoline Kroiß, Germany, 2022 Acrylic on Paper, 10x10in

Seek Out Emerging Artists

Find artwork that is truly one-of-a-kind by investing in talented artists who are just starting to make their mark. Perhaps you have artistic friends or love to DIY? Seek out artists on social media or visit local art shows. Singulart features 12,000 established and emerging artists from all over the world who work in a variety of mediums – photography, sculpture, painting, drawing, and more. Follow the ones you love and save them for future collections.

Colette et Lucien - Triptique by Mathilde At, France, 2023 Oil on Linen, 20x20in

Mix And Match Art Styles

Think beyond the print and consider original artwork as part of your lasting art collection. Combining different art forms not only adds visual interest but also lets you explore unique textures, colors, and dimensions. Pair a thought-provoking painting with a whimsical sculpture to create a collection that sparks conversation. There’s creativity in building your art collection – have fun with it! The key is finding an element, perhaps a color palette or a theme, that ties them all together.

Seducción by Artista Enzo, Spain, 2023Acrylic on Wood, 19x19in

Set The Mood With Placement

Give your artwork the space it deserves to make it really shine. Landscape pieces in the dining room can create a serene vibe while bright and energetic artwork in a home office can inspire creativity. Let your art guide the mood and function of a room. Consider size, style and theme of the artwork when deciding where to display it too. Large, bold pieces can make an amazing focal point in a living room while smaller pieces grouped together make a great gallery wall. Singulart will create a collection based on your preferences to help you curate the perfect gallery wall too. Browse their curated picks too!

Out of the dark VII by Ute Laum, Germany, 2023 Acrylic on Canvas, 39x39in

Play With Color + Texture

Consider your existing color scheme at home and choose art pieces that complement or contrast them. Bold, vibrant artwork can breathe new life into a neutral room, while textured pieces can add depth and playfulness to a minimal design. Want to give a piece you love the spotlight? Enhance the impact of your art with accent lights or natural light (just make sure to protect it as directed).

Gasa (Rainbow) by Kurtis Brand, United States, 2022 Cotton on Canvas, 50x48in

Rotate And Refresh

What’s fun about a personal art collection is that you can swap it in a new space for an instant refresh. Consider changing art with the seasons or moving art from one room to the next to give it more exposure in a high-traffic space.


Once you’ve begun to curate art pieces that resonate with you, it’s essential to take good care of your purchases so they’ll stand the test of time and continue to bring you joy.

Here are a few tips on how to preserve your art for a lifetime:

  1. Avoid hanging artwork in direct sunlight or in a space with extreme fluctuations in temperature. Sunlight can cause fading overtime, so explore UV-filtering framing options and be mindful of how the light can change in your space throughout the year.
  2. Keep a microfiber cloth or soft, clean brush on hand for routine dusting and cleaning of your art. Avoid any chemical cleaning solutions or water that could damage the work.
  3. Research the art trends associated with your work and learn more about the creator behind the art so you can take pride in the pieces you’ve curated and feel super knowledgeable about them.

Treat your art with love and care, and let your imagination run wild to create a collection that is truly a reflection of you and your creativity!

Main photo: Dawn by Nelly Van Nieuwenhuijzen, Netherlands 2023, Acrylic on Canvas, 39x39in

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.

Follow our Amazon Storefront for more beauty products we love!

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

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)