How Attention to Detail Became This Teen’s “Superpower”

Since he was an infant, Bryson has been navigating life with atopic dermatitis — the most common form of eczema. What his mom, Lynell, initially thought was cradle cap (a skin condition in infants characterized by scaly patches on the scalp) later appeared as itchy rashes across his body by the time he turned one.

In a conversation with the National Eczema Association (NEA), Bryson and Lynell shared how eczema has shaped their lives and how they found strength in community to deal with the challenges that have come their way. Bryson also shared how he uses his sharp attention to detail to advocate for himself, which has become his inner eczema “superpower.”

The interview has been condensed for length and clarity.

NEA: When did you first notice your eczema symptoms?

Bryson: My parents first noticed my symptoms when I was around three months old. They could see I was uncomfortable with itching and irritated rashes. It became more apparent as I got older—especially in elementary school, where I felt like I couldn’t participate in a lot of activities. My classmates would look at my skin and ask, “What is that?” In gym class, I’d sometimes have a different routine from everyone else, like showering right after swimming, and I couldn’t always participate in every activity the same way as others because of my itchy skin and rashes.

NEA: Can you tell us about a moment when you felt the need to educate others about your eczema experience?

Bryson: There’s no specific moment, but when I was younger I’d often brush off people’s comments about my skin. Now I see how important it is to speak up and explain what eczema is. It can help clear up misunderstandings and reduce stigma.

NEA: What is your “inner superpower” for managing your eczema? Was there a time your superpower helped you through a tough moment?

Bryson: My superpower is my attention to detail. I notice differences in my skin, even small changes, which helps me manage flare-ups. I also have food allergies, so I’ve learned to advocate for myself and pay close attention to what I put into my body, and foods that may trigger an eczema flare-up. I also try to be mindful of how others around me might be feeling too.

Lynell: Bryson’s eye for detail has always stood out to me, and he was so aware of his eczema—even at a young age. I remember him holding his baby brother and commenting on how soft, smooth, and clear his brother’s skin was compared to his own.

NEA: Finish this sentence, “My superpower makes me feel _______.”

Bryson: My attention to detail makes me feel prepared — for what’s coming and what to look out for.

NEA: Who are your biggest supporters? How do friends, family or community help you on tough days?

Bryson: My mom, dad and brother. They’re always there for me, and are very compassionate and understanding.

Lynell: I’ve experienced mild eczema too, so it helps me understand and relate to how Bryson might be feeling, especially on tough days. That helps us connect.

NEA: What would you want to tell someone supporting a loved one with eczema?

Bryson:Try to find positive ways to redirect your energy in those moments when things feel especially challenging. It helps to focus on something else that can be uplifting, especially when you’re feeling down.

Lynell:I often say that our whole family has eczema, even though Bryson is the only one diagnosed and living with severe eczema. We’re all in it together. We’ve always tried to instill in him that his eczema doesn’t define who he is. He’s a great student and talented in so many areas, and we couldn’t be prouder to be his cheerleaders.

NEA: What’s one thing you wish more people understood about eczema?

Bryson: It’s not contagious. When you’re dealing with a flare-up and scratching, eczema can affect your whole day, from how you feel physically and emotionally to what you can and cannot do. For people with severe eczema, it can really impact them.

Lynell: Eczema is more than skin deep. It’s important for our family to keep that in mind as we navigate each day, and it’s important for others living with eczema too.

NEA: What advice would you give to someone else about embracing their inner superpower to help them through their own challenges living with eczema?

Lynell: Remind your loved ones that they’re lovable no matter what, just as they are. Their value lies with what’s inside.

Bryson: Find things you enjoy to help distract yourself, like playing a game or sport. Surround yourself with people who understand. Through NEA, I’ve met many other people who’ve had similar experiences, and that’s helped me a lot.

Lynell: I found NEA when I was searching for help to make Bryson feel better. NEA’s been a huge support to me as a parent too.

Bryson: NEA has really helped me learn how to advocate for myself. I feel prepared to speak up for myself, and especially since I now live on my own most of the year, that means a lot.

I’m also glad that I can continue to lean on my attention to detail as a superpower to help me navigate my eczema. I hope that other people living with eczema can discover their inner

superpowers too to help them manage their symptoms and flares.

Anything but typical: Celebrating me with AD

NEA has partnered with Understand ADTM, supported by Sanofi and Regeneron, to create an educational campaign that empowers people living with atopic dermatitis and their caregivers with tools to advocate for their health. This year, Understand AD features Bryson and other eczema community members’ unique “superpowers” — the inspiring traits, strategies and mindsets their eczema journey has given them.

The campaign encourages honest conversations about the realities of eczema, celebrates the strength found in community support, and underscores the importance of open dialogue with healthcare providers. Visit UnderstandAD.com to discover other stories and video resources from the eczema community.