Atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis is a hereditary chronic skin disease affecting infants, children, and adults. Atopic eczema has very unpleasant symptoms and can be a great burden from a psychological point of view. One of the basic principles of treatment of atopic eczema is careful skincare. Properly selected cosmetics designed specifically for atopic skin will help keep eczema under control and prevent its recurrence.
What happens with atopic eczema?
The onset of atopic eczema is associated with a violation of the barrier function of the skin. A protective skin barrier that does not work properly, excessively removes water from the body and at the same time does not sufficiently protect against the penetration of irritants, allergens, or skin pathogens into the body. Due to the fact that the skin of atopic people does not respond adequately to ordinary stimuli, various skin manifestations occur as a result, such as redness or swelling, wetness or sowing of eczema, or small pimples. Convulsive itching is also typical. We call this acute phase of eczema an exacerbation. Even at rest, the skin of patients with atopic eczema is very dry, stretched, itchy, scaly, peeling, and cracks are easily formed.
Prescription medications (corticoids or topical immunomodulators) are used to treat eczema. These drugs are created solely to cope with the critical period. The basis for the treatment of atopic eczema at rest is regular skin treatment with appropriate products and compliance with routine measures (appropriate clothing, hygiene, non-irritating diet, the right choice of leisure).
Regular care for atopic skin
Relapses of atopic dermatitis are influenced by many external and internal factors, therefore, despite the best daily care, it is impossible to completely prevent them. However, it is certainly possible to reduce their frequency. Regular daily skincare will help, even in the resting phase of eczema. In the resting phase, you do not have acute manifestations of the disease. The skin is drier and more sensitive, but its condition can be easily improved with the help of dermo-cosmetics for atopic skin.
The basis of atopic skincare is lubrication.
Lubricant is the alpha and omega of atopic skincare. It is also very important to choose a suitable emollient, that is, a means to soften and moisturize the skin. Emollients reduce dryness of the skin and even reduce itching, strengthen the skin barrier, change the microbiome of the skin, and can also help reduce the consumption of “rescue drugs” during an exacerbation, especially corticoids.
Regular use of emollients from the first weeks of life reduces the risk of developing atopic dermatitis. Choose emollients without perfumes and without atopic skin irritants. Ideally with a nutritious composition, so that the skin receives the necessary substances that soothe it and prevent peeling. You will support the cooling and soothing effect of the emollient if you apply it chilled from the refrigerator. Use emollients to treat the skin immediately after the bath. This is the so-called three-minute rule when the skin is able to absorb as many nutrients as possible. Apply in the direction of hair growth, otherwise, there is a risk of folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles). It is important to use it regularly and in sufficient quantity. The use of a suitable emollient is more effective if it is applied in sufficient quantity. Said
Use creams and ointments on small problem areas. For large deposits, use lotions and milk. For roughened skin, use creams, ointments, and pastes if the skin is prone to cracking. In summer, choose products that make the skin less oily and sweaty – ideal for lotions and milk. In winter, choose a more intensive diet in the form of body lotion, creams, and ointments. Always choose lighter shapes for the day and thicker ones for the night.
Appropriate hygiene for atopic eczema
Another important part of atopic skincare is proper hygiene. For daily care, at rest or in the ignition phase, always choose very gentle detergents. Choose products without soap (syndetes) and foaming agents, without perfumes and parabens, optimally with active substances that have a nutritional capacity for dry skin with a tendency to atopy. In addition to the toilet, bath oils are recommended. The advantage of oils or gel-oil preparations is that the skin no longer needs to be lubricated after a bath. Taking a shower for people with atopic skin should take a maximum of 5 minutes or 10-15 minutes in case of taking a bath. After the bath, just dry the skin slightly, never rub it hard. and use a soft towel.
Supports atopic skin from the inside
The skin needs to be cared for not only from the outside but also from the inside. Pay attention to a balanced and varied diet. We can include dietary supplements that help maintain good skin conditions and strengthen the immune system. We can recommend products containing omega-3 fatty acids that will help nourish your skin from the inside out. For example, the use of biotin can contribute to a good skin condition, especially if symptoms worsen in winter. Remember also enough vitamin C and B.
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