Atopic dermatitis is a type of eczema that creates itchy, red patches on the skin. Flare-ups can happen at any time, and there's no known cure for the disease. Learning more about atopic dermatitis can help you treat yourself appropriately. Many lifestyle adjustments and home remedies can go a long way in mitigating the effects of atopic dermatitis. Here are four key pieces of atopic dermatitis information:
1. Modifying your hygiene routine can help.
It's important to keep your skin clean at all times, but cleansing yourself with harsh soap and hot water can worsen a dermatitis flare-up. Take cooler showers to avoid irritating your skin. Scalding hot water is an irritant. Use warm water instead. Some fragrance additives can trigger dermatitis, so switch to fragrance-free soap. When you have an active rash, you can even skip soap and simply cleanse your skin with water and the gentle friction created by rubbing your skin.
2. Keeping your skin moisturized is very important.
Many people use moisturizers as part of their beauty routine, but proper skin hydration is also a matter of good health. Atopic dermatitis flare-ups are more likely to occur when the skin is parched. Keep rashes at bay by using a fragrance-free moisturizer regularly. Make sure the moisturizer you choose is rich enough to hydrate your skin properly. If you only apply moisturizer once a day, increase the number of applications. Occlusives like petroleum jelly can seal in moisturizer better than body lotion alone.
3. Make sure your clothes don't cause irritation.
Clothes are in contact with your skin for the majority of the day. Make sure your clothes don't exacerbate your condition. When you purchase new clothes, wash them before wearing them for the first time. There may be chemicals clinging to them from the factory, and these chemicals can irritate your skin. Use laundry detergent that is free from fragrances. Ensure no excess laundry detergent is present in your clothes by programming your washing machine to do an extra rinse cycle.
4. Use prescription medication.
Prescription medication can relieve active rashes caused by atopic dermatitis. Your dermatologist can prescribe you a steroidal cream to use when you experience flare-ups. When using steroidal cream, always follow the directions. Wash your hands after applying your medicated ointment.
Talk to your dermatologist about your condition. They can help you seek out additional atopic dermatitis disease resources. This type of eczema is a common disease that can afflict people of all ages. However, it doesn't need to be a life sentence. Take control of your dermatitis with knowledge.