Renowned dermatologist Dr. Sandra Lee, popularly known as “Dr. Pimple Popper,” is best known for her TLC show and viral pimple-popping videos. However, what many don’t realize is that she also lives with a common skin condition she often treats in her practice: eczema.
Eczema, a chronic skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and dry skin, is frequently misunderstood and can cause emotional distress. Dr. Lee is working to shift perceptions by raising awareness about eczema and sharing her personal journey. Through her partnership with the “Moments of Clarity” campaign for Opzelura—a new non-steroidal prescription cream—she opens up about being diagnosed with eczema at a young age and how she now manages it as a healthcare professional.
In an exclusive interview, Dr. Lee detailed her skincare practices and wellness habits that help her maintain clear skin and a balanced lifestyle.
Dr. Lee finds that managing a condition she also treats deepens her connection with patients. When seeing someone with eczema, she often begins by sharing that she has the condition too. This gesture, she believes, builds trust and relatability.
She also notes that her own experiences encourage patients to take her treatment suggestions seriously, knowing that she applies the same strategies to her own skin.
Dr. Lee’s 6 Skincare Tips for Managing Eczema
Even skincare experts need a consistent routine. Dr. Lee’s approach, while tailored to eczema, also benefits anyone struggling with dry or sensitive skin.
1. Consistent Moisturizing Is Crucial
Dr. Lee considers moisturizing to be a daily essential—comparable to brushing one’s teeth. She always carries travel-size moisturizers, as her skin struggles to retain moisture. She recommends applying an emollient like Vaseline or Aquaphor on damp skin right after showering, followed by a thicker moisturizer such as Eucerin or CeraVe.
Recommended products include:
- Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream ($13)
- CeraVe Moisturizing Cream ($16)
2. Avoid Irritating Fabrics
Dr. Lee avoids wool and synthetic materials like nylon and spandex, which can trigger flare-ups. To stay warm in colder months, she recommends layering with breathable fabrics to prevent direct contact with wool.
3. Don’t Sit in Sweat
Sweat, especially if left on the skin, can irritate eczema-prone areas. Dr. Lee advises promptly drying off after workouts or heat exposure. She emphasizes the importance of keeping the face clean and avoiding constant wiping, which can lead to breakouts or inflammation.
4. Limit Exposure to Dust and Dry Air
Environmental factors like dust and dry air can lead to eczema flares. Dr. Lee avoids dusty activities like deep cleaning and uses air-purifying tools when needed. She recalls how a dusty space heater in medical school caused an intense flare-up that nearly kept her from taking an exam.
To combat dry environments, she suggests using humidifiers, such as:
Canopy Portable Humidifier ($100)
5. Manage Known Triggers
Dr. Lee encourages focusing on the triggers within one’s control, such as avoiding specific allergens, skincare products, or fabrics. Regaining a sense of control can reduce stress and lead to better symptom management.
6. Consult a Provider About Treatment Options
Though steroid creams have been the standard treatment, Dr. Lee acknowledges their limitations, including potential side effects like skin discoloration and withdrawal. She supports discussing alternative medications with a healthcare provider, noting that newer options are safer and effective.
Dr. Lee’s Broader Wellness Practices
Managing eczema is only one part of Dr. Lee’s wellness routine. She also prioritizes mental clarity, emotional well-being, and a balanced lifestyle.
1. Spending Time with Friends and Family
Dr. Lee values spontaneous and meaningful connections with loved ones. She recalls a recent visit from a friend that helped her gain perspective on her busy schedule. These moments help ground her and bring joy amidst professional obligations.
She also cherishes time with her family and cats, finding comfort in their presence.
2. Morning Routines and Daily Sunscreen
A consistent morning routine, especially applying sunscreen, is a cornerstone of Dr. Lee’s skincare regimen. She emphasizes its role in preventing signs of aging, such as dark spots and broken capillaries, and most importantly, in reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Top sunscreen picks include:
- Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 30 ($20)
- Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Face Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50 ($40) by La Roche-Posay
3. Mental Health and Vulnerability
Dr. Lee stresses that skin conditions can deeply affect mental health. Eczema, like acne, can influence one’s personality and social interactions. For this reason, she believes treatment should address both physical and emotional symptoms.
She actively practices vulnerability and empathy, especially when interacting with patients on her show and YouTube channel. She also watches her show to stay reminded of how skin conditions impact lives.
Dr. Lee advises anyone struggling with a chronic condition to seek emotional support from friends, loved ones, or mental health professionals. Recognizing the emotional toll and practicing self-compassion are essential for overall well-being.
Related Topics
