Atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly called eczema, is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no single cure, understanding how to properly care for atopic skin can significantly improve comfort and quality of life. The persistent itching associated with this condition is often more distressing than other symptoms, making proper skincare routines essential for those affected.
Understanding Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a long-term condition that typically accompanies a person throughout life, though symptoms often change over time. It commonly first appears during infancy or early childhood, with many cases developing in the newborn period or around ages six to seven.
In adults, atopic dermatitis usually represents a continuation of childhood-onset condition. While symptoms often improve with age, affected areas may persist into adulthood, requiring ongoing attention to skincare throughout life.
The condition is characterised by a compromised skin barrier, which allows moisture to escape and irritants to penetrate more easily. This barrier dysfunction underlies many of the symptoms and guides the approach to care.
Recognising the Signs
Atopic dermatitis presents with several characteristic features that develop progressively.
Persistent itching: Often the first and most bothersome symptom, the itching can be intense enough to disrupt sleep and daily activities. This itching may affect the entire body or specific areas.
Dry skin: Regardless of products used, the skin becomes very dry. This dryness results from the compromised skin barrier that allows moisture loss.
Characteristic locations: Red, raised areas commonly appear in skin folds, particularly behind the knees and inside the elbows. These may develop into rough, bumpy patches.
Visible changes: Red patches may spread and can eventually cover larger areas. Scratching leaves visible marks, and over time, the skin may become thickened or take on a different texture.
The appearance and severity of symptoms vary considerably between individuals and can fluctuate over time based on numerous factors including weather, stress, and exposure to triggers.
The Role of Skincare
While medical management plays an important role, proper skincare forms the foundation of living comfortably with atopic dermatitis. Good skincare routines support any medical approaches and help reduce discomfort on a daily basis.
The primary goal of skincare for atopic skin is restoring and maintaining the skin's moisture barrier. This involves both adding moisture and preventing its loss, protecting the skin from irritants and environmental stressors.
Moisturising: The Essential Step
Moisturising is the cornerstone of atopic skin care. Dryness is the main source of discomfort, making effective moisturisation essential.
Product selection: Rich creams, butters, and oils work best for atopic skin. Look for products specifically formulated for sensitive or atopic skin, preferably without fragrances, dyes, or harsh preservatives that might trigger irritation.
Application timing: Apply moisturiser immediately after bathing while skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in moisture absorbed during bathing. Reapply throughout the day as needed, particularly to areas prone to dryness.
Product consistency: Heavier, oil-based products (ointments and creams) generally provide better barrier protection than lighter lotions. During flare-ups or in dry weather, richer formulations offer superior protection.
Bathing Practices
How you bathe matters as much as the products you use afterward.
Water temperature: Use lukewarm rather than hot water. Hot water strips natural oils from the skin and can worsen dryness and irritation.
Duration: Keep baths or showers brief, typically 10-15 minutes. Extended water exposure can actually dry out the skin despite the temporary hydration feeling.
Cleansing products: Traditional soaps can be harsh on atopic skin. Consider soap-free cleansers (syndets) or gentle shower products specifically designed for sensitive skin. These clean effectively without disrupting the skin barrier as much as conventional soaps.
Bath additives: Some find benefit from adding protective oils or specialised bath products to the water. These can help coat the skin during bathing, reducing moisture loss.
Drying: Pat skin gently with a soft towel rather than rubbing. Vigorous drying can irritate sensitive skin.
Beyond Personal Care Products
Managing atopic skin extends beyond the products applied directly to the body.
Laundry considerations: Regular laundry detergents may leave residues that irritate sensitive skin. Consider switching to fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergents or soap flakes for washing clothes, bedding, and towels that contact the skin.
Environmental factors: Hard water, chlorinated water, air conditioning, and environmental pollutants can all stress atopic skin. Using protective moisturisers creates a barrier against these external irritants.
Fabric choices: Soft, breathable natural fabrics like cotton are generally better tolerated than synthetic materials or wool, which may cause irritation.
Lifestyle Factors
Several lifestyle elements can influence atopic dermatitis symptoms.
Stress management: Stress is known to worsen itching and flare-ups in many people. Finding effective ways to manage stress, whether through relaxation techniques, exercise, or other methods, can support skin comfort.
Temperature regulation: Overheating and sweating can trigger itching. Dressing in layers and maintaining comfortable room temperatures helps avoid this trigger.
Trigger identification: Common triggers vary between individuals but may include certain foods, environmental allergens, fragrances, and specific materials. Keeping a diary can help identify personal triggers to avoid.
Supplements for Skin Health
Certain supplements may support overall skin health from within.
Omega-3 fatty acids support skin barrier function and may help maintain skin hydration. These essential fats are important components of healthy skin cell membranes.
Vitamin D plays roles in skin health and immune function. Many people with atopic dermatitis have been found to have lower vitamin D levels.
Probiotics support gut health, which has connections to skin health through the gut-skin axis. Some research has explored probiotics in the context of atopic conditions.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that supports skin health and helps protect skin cells from oxidative stress.
Care for Different Ages
Atopic skin care approaches vary somewhat by age group.
Infants and young children: Baby skin is particularly sensitive, requiring extra-gentle products. Children's skincare products formulated for sensitive or atopic skin are appropriate. Parents should establish gentle routines early and be vigilant about potential irritants.
Children and teenagers: As children become more independent, teaching proper skincare habits becomes important. Establishing routines they can maintain themselves supports long-term management.
Adults: Adult atopic skin often requires consistent, long-term care routines. Facial skincare products for sensitive skin help protect this visible, often-affected area.
Explore our selection of gentle skincare products and skin-supporting supplements at Medpak. Quality formulations for sensitive and atopic skin help maintain comfort and protect the skin's natural barrier.
Key Takeaway: Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic skin condition characterised by compromised skin barrier, persistent itching, dryness, and characteristic red patches in skin folds. While no cure exists, proper skincare significantly improves comfort. Essential practices include intensive moisturising (rich creams/oils applied to damp skin after bathing), gentle bathing (lukewarm water, brief duration, soap-free cleansers/syndets), and avoiding irritants in laundry products and environment. Lifestyle factors like stress management and trigger identification also help. Supportive supplements include omega-3s, vitamin D, probiotics, and vitamin E. The condition typically begins in infancy or childhood and may persist into adulthood with varying severity. Focus on barrier repair and protection is key to management.
