Three Singaporeans share their struggles, triumphs, and hopes as they navigate life with chronic eczema.
Scratching an itch is second nature to most, but for those living with chronic eczema, it’s an indulgence they can’t afford. Beyond the visible patches of dry, inflamed skin, eczema brings lifelong challenges that most people can barely imagine.
In Singapore’s heat and humidity, eczema sufferers battle frequent flare-ups, often compounded by societal misunderstanding and unsolicited advice. Three individuals—Bryner, Ursula, and Reuben—courageously share their journeys of coping with eczema, breaking stereotypes, and reclaiming their confidence.
Standing Out, Not Fitting In
Bryner Tan, a 30-year-old content creator, vividly recalls the stares and judgment he receives due to his visibly red, scaly skin. “A mother once pulled her child away from me on the train because of how my skin looked,” he shares. Despite the stares, Bryner doesn’t let his condition define him, even embracing tattoos despite the added pain they bring during healing.
For 33-year-old Ursula Soh, unsolicited advice from strangers about her skincare routine often feels dismissive and self-serving. Yet, she channels her experiences into advocacy, running the Eczema Support Group Singapore since 2012 to foster understanding and community.
Reuben Loo, 24, faced bullying in his younger years, which left emotional scars. “I used stress eating and gaming to cope with the bullying,” he shares. Despite the challenges, Reuben finds solace in the unwavering support of his family and a mentor who became his closest friend.
Everyday Battles
The daily realities of eczema are relentless. From strict diets that exclude common allergens to wardrobes dictated by comfort rather than style, life revolves around managing flare-ups. “I’ve given up wearing shorts because my legs look like they have thousands of cat scratches,” Ursula laments.
Reuben dreams of traveling without the burden of carrying creams and extra clothes to manage his skin. Meanwhile, Bryner’s work as a photographer often forces him to interact with people despite his discomfort. “I counter my reluctance by drinking, but that leads to scratching like crazy when I get home,” he admits.
Hope Beyond the Skin
Despite the physical and emotional toll, these individuals exude resilience. Ursula dreams of participating in activities like nature walks or even National Service training, while Reuben envisions a life free of dietary restrictions. Bryner continues to pursue his passions in music and photography, refusing to let eczema hold him back.
Their stories are a reminder that true body positivity means embracing and celebrating differences, not just tolerating them. By fostering empathy and understanding, society can create a space where everyone feels comfortable in their own skin—eczema and all.
