By Sabrina Atwiine
In a deeply insightful edition of X Press, an interactive digital conversation series curated by Next Com, the spotlight turned to the often-overlooked but widely experienced condition of eczema, with a focus on skin health and confidence.
Hosted by media personality Sheila Tusiime, the Spaces brought together medical experts, skincare advocates, and everyday individuals to discuss the physical, emotional, and social effects of eczema.
The conversation was supported by Clabane, Africa's sensitive skin gaining popularity for its dermatologist-recommended range of products designed for sensitive African skin.
Understanding Eczema: More Than Just a Skin Issue
Dermatologist Dr Malik Ssempereza, one of the key speakers, broke down the science of eczema, describing it as “dry, sensitive, and itchy skin” that is especially common among children.
He emphasised that eczema can significantly disrupt a child’s well-being.
“When children have eczema, they scratch a lot, don’t sleep well, and if not treated, it can develop into a psychological issue,” Dr Ssempereza noted, highlighting the hidden toll that goes beyond the skin's surface.
He further pointed out a trend that often goes unnoticed:
“Most children suffer from eczema, especially at around 3 months old. I think that’s because many mothers are returning to work around that time.”
This insight speaks to the changing routines, exposure to new environments, and emotional stress that babies might experience as their primary caregivers shift schedules—factors that could potentially trigger or worsen eczema.
The Mental Health Link
Dr Ssempereza also addressed how eczema can impact mental health in both children and adults. He explained that sleep is a key diagnostic indicator:
“I always ask patients about their sleep patterns, how many hours they sleep, and whether they sleep deeply. If someone isn’t sleeping well, it often indicates depression.”
This connection between poor skin health and mental well-being was echoed powerfully by Patricia Peace Ejang, a communications professional who shared her struggles with eczema:
“When I was at campus, I would go for months without looking in the mirror because I already knew how my skin looked, and I didn’t like what I saw. Most of us who have suffered from eczema often lose self-esteem.”
Her honesty resonated with many listeners, especially when she added:
“Most of us who have eczema try to dress nicely and wear bright colors to draw attention away from our faces and toward our clothes or earrings.”
The Clabane Difference
The discussion also featured testimonials from people whose skin journeys have been transformed by Clabane products. Muhindo Steffin Balinandi spoke candidly about his long-term battle with eczema:
“I have been struggling with eczema since childhood. I used steroids for some time to manage it, but they eventually became harsh on my skin until a friend recommended Clabane products. The soap, moisturiser, and sunscreen have really helped my skin.”
Clabane’s dermatologist-tested formulations are designed with sensitivity in mind, and Dr. Ssempereza recommended them for their gentle yet effective ingredients:
“You can use makeup when you have eczema, but the products should be high in pore-friendliness, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and mineral-based with natural ingredients.”
He particularly emphasised the need for sunscreen in Uganda’s high UV climate:
“Clabane sunscreen is important. It protects against radiation, and since Uganda is on the equator, we experience high radiation levels, which cause hyper-pigmentation.”
Skincare Is Personal
Wrapping up the space, Dr Ssempereza reminded participants that skincare is never one-size-fits-all:
“There is no single product that works for everyone all the time because we all have different skin types.”
This X Press session served as an important reminder that skincare is not merely cosmetic. It’s about comfort, confidence, and care.
Through Clabane’s continued investment in community education and science-backed skincare, more Ugandans are gaining access to information and products that truly meet their needs.
As Next Com continues to host conversations that matter, this collaboration with Clabane proves how digital spaces can be used meaningfully to bridge knowledge gaps, empower individuals, and build healthier lives, starting with the skin.
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