THE Atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema is a inflammatory disease chronic skin disease with a genetic nature and which is not contagious.
It appears in between 10 and 20% of children and manifests itself with skin irritation and frequent itching that affects not only the quality of life and sleep of children, but also of the adults who live with them.
Although it frequently appears in babies and children, symptoms generally improve with growth, but they may remain or even appear in adolescence or adulthood.
In this article, we will talk about what to do to alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups through simple measures and products specially formulated for atopic skin.
1. WHAT IS ATOPIC DERMATITIS?
It is not known which one cause exact form of atopic dermatitis, but it is believed to be the result of genetic, immunological factors and environmental.
There is a abnormal and exaggerated response of the immune system to external agents, which leads to itching, redness and rashes that can become fissures due to repeated scratching.
Atopic skin is more dry and sensitive and, presents a ineffective skin barrier due to the insufficiency of the hydrolipidic film (lipid/water emulsion), not effectively fulfilling its defense function against external agents. It is more permeable, not effectively isolating substances that come into contact with the skin, such as allergens, dust, irritating substances and even microorganisms that cause infections.
There is also a greater water loss transepidermal with skin dehydration.
In many cases, changes in the normal flora of the skin and in the microbiome intestinal.
Individuals with atopic dermatitis have a genetic predisposition to develop allergies, asthma and allergic rhinitis, and therefore it may be necessary to consult an immunoallergologist in addition to a dermatologist or pediatrician.
The prevalence in urban areas is thought to be due to environmental factors such as pollutants, unbalanced diet with little fiber and lots of fat and sugar, with intestinal dysbiosis (change in normal gastric flora). In these cases, It may be helpful to take a probiotic to replenish intestinal flora.
2. SYMPTOMS
In general, the skin is dry, rough and flaky.
In the children, is characterized by:
- Frequent skin itching, redness and injuries (scales and crusts), which on the face are usually located mainly on the cheeks and eyelids, and, in the body, the most affected areas tend to be the flexor areas (folds) of the arms and legs.
- It may still occur peeling and cracks resulting from the act of scratching with resulting infection.
Us adults, the lesions are located more in the hands and feet, in the flexible zones of the members and in the cervical region with thicker, rougher and darker skin.
Crises can be triggered by external agents such as detergents and irritating chemical agents, frequent hand washing, sudden changes in temperature, intense sweating, and emotional stress.
In the most severe cases, the injuries can affect almost the entire face and body.
3.BASIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL CARE
Although there is no way to prevent atopic dermatitis, some measures can be taken to help control symptoms and avoid flare-ups.
Here are some tips:
- Take quick bath with warm water and using mild cleaning agents, non-delipidating, fragrance-free and specific for atopic skin. One example is shower oils. They should be applied by hand and do not use bath gloves or sponges to rub the skin. Dry gently the skin with a soft cotton towel, without rubbing.
- Take a shower immediately after physical activity to avoid sweat irritation.
- Keep the nails Babies and children's hands should be well trimmed and clean to avoid microbial infections secondary to scratching. If necessary, you can place handkerchiefs on the baby's hands.
- To the clothes Clothing that comes into contact with the skin, such as underwear, T-shirts and bed linen, should be made of natural fibres such as cotton or linen. Choose loose, comfortable clothing to avoid friction and breathable clothing to prevent excessive sweating. They should be well rinsed after washing to remove detergent residue and do not use softeners because they contain perfume. You can opt for specific detergents for sensitive skin, such as those from Chicco.
- The excess of heat and sudden changes in temperature can worsen the condition, so rooms should be kept at a comfortable temperature, but not too hot (maximum 18 degrees).
- You mites and the dust They also act as factors that worsen symptoms, so the house, especially the bedrooms, should be kept well ventilated, curtains, rugs, carpets and stuffed animals should be removed and vacuumed regularly.
- You by the and feathers from animals can also worsen symptoms and make attacks more frequent.
- To use gloves in household chores to protect yourself from the irritating action of detergents and bleach and opt for gentle cleaning products whenever possible.
- In the case of adults, the stress can trigger flare-ups, so relaxation techniques or meditation can be helpful in lowering your levels.
The first line of treatment should not be corticosteroids, but rather emollients which help to restore lipids to the skin barrier and maintain its insulation and protection function intact.
-Must be applied emollients Apply to the entire body and face immediately after bathing and, while the skin is still slightly damp to maintain skin hydration, at least once a day. Choose ranges formulated for atopic skin that are fragrance-free and minimalist, formulated to minimize the risk of irritation. They replenish skin oil, reduce dehydration and also contain calming and soothing substances to relieve irritation and itching. They come in various forms, such as milks, creams and balms, and are easy to spread.
It may be necessary reapply them during the day, especially on the hands and face, which are more subject to frequent washing and external aggressions. They should always be within reach (in your school bag, sports bag, handbag, bedside table). You can use hand creams and sprays with soothing action and thermal water before applying the cream that will penetrate more easily into damp skin.
Cosmetics for atopic skin should be preferred as they are specifically formulated to respond to the skin's needs and respect its sensitivity.
- Hypoallergenic (formulated to reduce the occurrence of allergic reactions).
- No perfumes.
- With minimal preservatives (some in airless packaging) and minimalist formulas.
- Gentle and with soothing ingredients such as chamomile and colloidal oatmeal.
- Nutritious with glycerin, shea butter, hyaluronic acid, ceramides.
Don't forget:
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and specific treatment guidelines, as the treatment of atopic skin can be adjusted according to the needs and degree of the disease.