Atopic dermatitis – what is it and what helps?

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. 30 to 40 percent of all those affected suffer from the allergic form - also known as atopic dermatitis.

The disease progresses in episodes. The symptoms of atopic dermatitis are often already apparent in babies. In many cases, the symptoms improve in later years – but they can also persist. The often agonizing, severe itching and the sometimes pronounced skin changes can considerably restrict the quality of life of atopic dermatitis patients and cause a high level of suffering.

Atopic dermatitis can have various causes. It is suspected that genetic factors may play a role – but lifestyle and environmental influences also seem to impact the development and severity of the condition. Typical causes and triggers include:

 • Environmental Factors

Both climatic conditions like cold in winter or temperature fluctuations and allergens such as pollen can trigger an atopic dermatitis flare-up. Environmental pollutants like smoke, certain ingredients in cosmetics, or clothing that irritates the skin can also be triggers.

• Hereditary Predisposition

Children with one or both parents suffering from atopic dermatitis have a significantly higher risk of developing atopic dermatitis themselves.

• Immune System

In individuals with atopic dermatitis, defects in the activity of immune cells are detectable. Often, the defense cells are overactive, leading to the release of histamine and inflammatory reactions.

• Allergies

Allergies, such as those to certain foods, are common triggers of atopic dermatitis flare-ups. Which foods are involved in individual cases and what should be avoided with atopic dermatitis must be determined through medical examination.

• Stress

Although atopic dermatitis is not caused by stress, it is a trigger factor that can provoke an atopic dermatitis flare-up. Stress hormones like cortisol can enhance processes that weaken the skin barrier, promoting inflammation and itching.

Both atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are genetically influenced skin conditions. However, atopic dermatitis presents with eczema lesions, while psoriasis features silvery-white skin scales – called plaques – on red, inflamed skin. While atopic dermatitis can be triggered by allergies, there is no connection between psoriasis and allergies.

The treatment of atopic dermatitis depends on the severity of the condition. Skincare plays an important role. The goal of skincare is to support the therapy, delay flare-ups, and alleviate acute symptoms. Between flare-ups, the skin should be treated with special care products designed for atopic dermatitis.

During acute phases, scratching should be avoided as much as possible, as it can lead to injuries that are difficult to heal and further weaken the skin barrier. Additionally, it is important to reduce redness and provide the skin with sufficient moisture.

During acute phases, scratching should be avoided as much as possible, as it can lead to injuries that are difficult to heal and further weaken the skin barrier. Additionally, it is important to reduce redness and provide the skin with sufficient moisture. When there are no symptoms, the skin is not acutely irritated but still dry and sensitive. Creams and lotions rich in unsaturated fatty acids and moisturizing agents can often help. In general, natural cosmetics without additives such as preservatives and fragrances are a good choice for the care of atopic dermatitis-prone skin.

For the treatment of dry, atopic eczema, Weleda's Dermatodoron® Ointment is recommended. The ointment can support healthy skin function and help restore balance to the skin, thereby alleviating symptoms of the condition.

Dermatodoron® Ointment  contains plant extracts from bittersweet nightshade and pennywort. These ingredients help normalize the skin's metabolism and allow open skin areas to heal. The re-fatting ointment also strengthens the skin's barrier function and protects it from drying out. The ointment is suitable for follow-up treatment after using corticosteroid ointments.

Atopic dermatitis patients should try to avoid certain things:
• Cosmetics that contain strong allergens. Soaps are not suitable for cleansing atopic dermatitis-prone skin – instead, pH-neutral cleansing lotions or oil baths should be used.
 • Showering or bathing in very hot water. Lukewarm to warm water is more tolerable for the skin than hot water, which can damage the skin barrier.
• Dry heating air, which can further dry out the skin. Very high humidity can also negatively affect the skin condition.
• Cold or heat: Extreme temperatures, such as in winter or summer, can trigger an atopic dermatitis flare-up.
• Clothing made from skin-irritating materials. This includes wool or certain synthetic fibers. Recommended are clothing items made from organic cotton, silk, and linen.
• Stress: Psychological stress can worsen the condition.

For atopic dermatitis patients, it is particularly important to maintain a balanced and wholesome diet. Industrially processed foods that contain artificial additives such as preservatives or colorants should be avoided as much as possible – the same applies to sugar, alcohol, coffee, and strong spices. Products made from milk, eggs, and wheat flour are also not well tolerated in atopic dermatitis. On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is recommended.