Comedian and actress Heather McMahan is openly discussing her long-term battle with eczema, emphasizing a shift toward proactive self-care. At a recent event hosted by SheKnows in partnership with OPZELURA, McMahan shared how she’s making her skin health a priority amid a demanding career. This comes as roughly 10% of Americans – 31.6 million people – live with eczema, a chronic skin condition that can significantly impact quality of life.
Understanding Eczema & Its Impact
Eczema manifests in various forms, including atopic dermatitis (the most common, causing inflamed, thickened skin), seborrheic dermatitis (characterized by scaly patches), and chronic hand eczema (marked by recurring redness and dryness). Triggers vary but often include stress, new skincare products, and lifestyle factors, leading to unpredictable flare-ups.
McMahan explained that she’s historically relied on humor to cope with her condition, but is now focusing on preventative measures. “This year, I’m going to be so proactive, specifically with eczema,” she said, highlighting a deliberate change in mindset.
Prioritizing Health Amid Demanding Schedules
Many women tend to prioritize others before themselves, often neglecting their own health until issues become unavoidable. McMahan acknowledges this pattern, stating that she decided to actively manage her eczema “to feel good and not have it be something that was constantly in the back of my mind.”
Her approach involves practical adjustments: packing essential products, avoiding known irritants, and seeking professional help. She recounted a childhood marked by skin rashes, eventually leading to a diagnosis of eczema and a shift toward steroid-free skincare, including OPZELURA.
OPZELURA & FDA Approval
OPZELURA is an FDA-approved topical treatment for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in adults and children over two, particularly when other therapies are insufficient or unsuitable. The comedian found that it works well with her body.
Empowering Others Through Transparency
McMahan also discussed her decision to share her experiences publicly. “I couldn’t hide it,” she said. “I want to empower other people just to get that confidence back.”
Her willingness to discuss her struggles aims to normalize conversations around skin conditions and encourage others to seek treatment without shame. McMahan concluded by expressing her desire to be a “guinea pig” for others, using humor to lighten a challenging situation and remind people they’re not alone.
McMahan’s story underscores the importance of proactive health management, especially for individuals with chronic conditions. By prioritizing self-care and seeking effective treatments, she demonstrates that managing eczema doesn’t have to be a hidden struggle.
For more personal stories about eczema, visit mymomentsofclarity.com.
