What cosmetics are suitable for people with atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an increasingly common problem that affects not only children but also adults. We associate it with a childhood disease, because the first symptoms of AD usually appear in infancy, less often in preschool or early school age. However, it is a disease that accompanies a person throughout life, although its symptoms usually subside over time, especially if we implement appropriate treatment and proper care.

Symptoms of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is primarily a disorder of lipid production, which forms the skin's natural protective barrier. In addition, there is increased sensitivity to certain external and allergenic factors. The first basic symptom of AD is itching, and this persistent itching often disrupts everyday, normal functioning. The skin is very dry and thin (sometimes even transparent, so that veins can be seen through it). Over time, small pimples appear on the body, especially in places where the skin is particularly thin (e.g. in the bends of the knees, on the elbows). These lumps often transform into small pimples or merge with each other, creating larger red patches resembling lichen. In addition, there are the effects of scratching in the form of bacterial overgrowth or excoriations.

Treatment of atopic dermatitis

Treating atopic dermatitis is very difficult, especially if allergic problems are added to the mix. In most cases, complete recovery is virtually impossible. Basically, we are talking primarily about relieving symptoms. Until recently, ointments and preparations containing steroids were mainly used in treatment. Unfortunately, they caused many side effects and made the skin thinner and weaker. Nowadays, people increasingly reach for anti-inflammatory ointments and creams, as well as immunosuppressive and anti-allergic drugs.

Care and recommended cosmetics for people with atopic dermatitis

In addition to the implemented treatment, proper care is also important. What properties should creams, balms and other cosmetics for atopics have? When choosing the optimal preparations, we must take into account the basic properties of atopic skin. Due to the fact that the derma is deprived of its natural hydrolipid protection, it is necessary to remember first of all to properly lubricate and moisturize it. Due to the fact that this skin is prone to irritation and allergies, products with a very simplified, natural composition should be chosen. It is best if they have a soothing, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect at the same time. For example , organic cosmetics without preservatives, fragrances and artificial additives fulfill this task very well. The shorter the list of ingredients, the better. Creams, balms and cleansing cosmetics for atopics contain, among others, allantoin, urea, triglycerides, ceramides and vitamin E. In addition, the cosmetic has anti-itching properties, which can be obtained thanks to substances such as pumpkin seed extract or L-fuctose.

The purpose of cosmetics for people with atopic dermatitis is:

– providing the skin with hydrolipid protection,

– skin hydration,

-reduction of itching-related symptoms,

– soothing irritations and inflammation.

Emollients in cosmetics for atopics

Very often we hear that creams for people with atopic dermatitis, but also dry or sensitive skin should contain emollients. What are the famous emollients and how do they affect the dermis? Emollients support the reconstruction of the skin's natural water-lipid barrier. They lubricate the dermis, while maintaining the proper level of moisture. Vegetable oils, such as shea butter or borage oil, do this very well. Paraffin oil is used less often. Lanolin, i.e. sheep's hair wax, is avoided, because although it lubricates the skin very well, it also has very strong allergenic properties - instead of soothing, the cosmetic could exacerbate the problem.

Moisturize and moisturize again

As mentioned, apart from greasing, the second important task that cosmetics for atopic dermatitis should fulfill is moisturising. For this reason, cosmetics for people with atopic dermatitis very often contain urea (of course in the right concentration), sorbitol, allantoin or glycerin. They hydrate the skin very well and make it softer.

Basic rules of daily care for people with atopic dermatitis

In addition, you should remember certain recommendations regarding daily care.

– It is better to replace a bath in a bathtub with a shower. Long periods of lounging in warm water additionally dry out the skin and cause irritation. If we decide to bathe in a bathtub, it is good to add a little sea salt or potato flour.

– Alkaline soaps and shower gels should be replaced with gentle washing agents for tops, e.g. syndits, which remove impurities but do not wash away the natural lipid coat, which is already very weakened in the case of atopic skin. Therefore, it is good to lubricate the body with a special protective substance before bathing.

– After bathing, the skin should be greased with a greasy, moisturizing cream or balm, or oil. Creams that maintain proper hydrolipod protection and soothe irritations should be applied even several times a day.

– You should also avoid clothes made of synthetic fabrics, as well as woolen sweaters, hats or scarves, which can additionally irritate the skin. Clothes should be washed in soap flakes or delicate powders for allergy sufferers.

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