Dry skin and atopic dermatitis
During certain periods of the year, the skin becomes redder than usual, itching and tightening uncomfortably. It is possible that it is extremely dry skin whose condition worsens, especially in the winter months, or it may be atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common type of eczema. The incidence of AD is constantly increasing, affecting about 10-20% of children worldwide and about 2-5% of adults. The skin of patients is continuously dry, prone to irritation, infections and inflammation.
Who gets AD and why?
Atopic dermatitis usually begins in childhood, most often in the first six months of a newborn’s age. This common form of eczema is both severe and long lasting.
What are the signs and symptoms of AD?
Symptoms vary from person to person. Some people have red, heated skin because the skin’s immune system is highly activated. Others develop sticky and fluffy skin as a result of constant scratching and rubbing. This condition is called lichenification.
What are some best practices for bathing and moisturizing?
The key to caring for atopic skin is to restore the skin’s natural protective layer by restoring its necessary hydration. For the best effect, it is necessary to lubricate the body with lotion or oil within a few minutes after showering or washing, while the skin is still moist. This way we retain moisture, leaving the skin hydrated and soft. Use nourishing products that contain a high concentration of moisturizing ingredients such as, for example, aloe, lipids, natural oils and butters, hyaluronic acid, urea, allantoin. For extremely sensitive, irritated or itchy skin, look for products with oat extract, aloe or omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that will soften and soothe it.
For dermal application, a mixture of almond oil and shea butter, in a ratio of 40:60, is recommended.