Struggles with Eczema

For Michelle Hong, a lifelong figure skater, eczema has been a persistent challenge since childhood. However, her struggles intensified during the Covid-19 pandemic, prompting significant changes in her lifestyle and self-esteem. Once comfortable in fitted sportswear and dresses, Michelle found herself turning to oversized clothing to conceal her skin issues.

“I wanted to look good and feel good every day, but that just wasn’t the case with eczema,” Hong recalls. The discomfort associated with the rash, characterized by tightness and itching, severely affected her confidence. Her battle with skin flare-ups also exacerbated previous emotional health issues, making her desire to hide even more pressing.

Shifting Perspectives

As the severity of her condition grew, so did Hong’s awareness of the emotional toll. The visible effects of eczema marked by red, irritated patches brought back old insecurities regarding her body image, reminding her of past struggles with self-acceptance.

“I felt ashamed showing my skin at all,” she shared, emphasizing the emotional weight of her condition.

During harsh flare-ups, Michelle associated these feelings with her history of an eating disorder, leading to self-neglect and difficulty finding joy. The summers in San Francisco were particularly challenging as she longed for the summer styles she once loved—halter tops, sleeveless dresses, and shorts—all tucked away as she shielded herself from judgment.

Taking Charge of Health and Wellbeing

Determined to reclaim her skin and self-esteem, Hong sought advice from her dermatologist. She opted for treatments specifically designed for eczema rather than relying on steroids that could yield negative side effects. This was just the start of a comprehensive strategy to manage her condition.

Recognizing the impact of stress on her flare-ups, she took a step back from her work commitments to focus on mental health, stating, “Acknowledging the role of stress was a huge step forward toward slow and steady progression.”

Emphasizing self-care, Michelle turned to Korean skincare routines that prioritized her skin’s needs and helped her rebuild a positive relationship with her body. This newfound approach not only improved her skin’s health but fostered a sense of self-worth.

Understanding Triggers

Hong became more attuned to the factors that triggered her eczema, including environmental allergens like mold. After undergoing allergy testing, she discovered the source of irritation beneath her bed and took steps to eliminate it. While cautious about elimination diets due to her past experiences with eating disorders, she maintained awareness of how different foods affected her skin and overall mental health.

The Road to Confidence

Through a combination of effective stress management and diligent self-care, Michelle began to notice significant improvements. Flares became less frequent and intense, allowing her to confidently wear the styles she had long desired. Every outfit became a step toward self-expression and liberation.

In 2024, her journey culminated in a beautiful wedding where she wore a gown adorned with string straps and a fitted bodice, embodying a joyous celebration of self-acceptance. “Being able to truly express yourself in every way, including fashion, carries such freedom,” she reflected.