Eczema’s impact on body image and social life explored through personal stories
Eczema is a chronic condition that affects millions, yet it is often invisible to those who don’t live with it. For those like Bryner, Ursula, and Reuben, eczema has shaped their lives in profound ways, not only physically but socially and psychologically. Their stories shed light on the hidden struggles of dealing with this skin condition while navigating daily life in Singapore’s hot and humid climate.
Benjamin Tan, who has had eczema himself, shares his journey through the painful flare-ups and social isolation that come with the condition. He brings us closer to understanding the experience through the personal stories of three Singaporeans, each grappling with eczema in their own way.
Bryner Tan, a 30-year-old content creator, recalls the uncomfortable stares and comments he gets from people when they see his red, scaly skin. He has learned to endure these reactions, though they still anger him. His eczema also affects his body image, forcing him to take precautions, such as avoiding mirrors and sunlight that might expose his dead skin.
Ursula Soh, 33, faces similar challenges, dealing with eczema on her limbs and back. She has been approached countless times with unsolicited advice about her skin, which often feels more like an attempt to show off knowledge than genuine concern. Despite these inconveniences, Ursula has taken the initiative to educate the public about eczema and runs the Eczema Support Group Singapore.
Reuben Loo, 24, has struggled with eczema since childhood. He faced emotional bullying in school, which contributed to his feelings of isolation and low self-esteem. Yet, with the support of his family and a mentor, Reuben has learned to cope with the psychological toll eczema takes on his body image.
For these three individuals, eczema is not just a skin condition—it’s an ongoing struggle that influences how they interact with the world around them. From difficulty finding clothes that don’t irritate their skin to the emotional impact of social isolation, eczema affects nearly every part of their lives.
Despite these challenges, they all continue to push forward. They’re redefining what it means to feel comfortable in their own skin, advocating for greater understanding, compassion, and acceptance from the society around them. Their stories are a powerful reminder of the importance of body positivity and the need to celebrate everyone’s uniqueness, even in the face of adversity.
