Atopic dermatitis: how to spot it?
Eczema (atopic dermatitis editor’s note) affects 40% of adolescents and 30% of 6-7 years old. It is estimated that between 1 and 3% of adults are affected by this skin disease. Eczema appears when the skin no longer plays its role of barrier against external aggressions. Not only does water evaporate more easily from the epidermis, irritants easily penetrate the skin
>> Read our special feature on eczema
The symptoms are easily recognizable: the skin turns red, it itches. The itching can cause cracks in the skin.
Eczema: the right care
While we do not know the exact cause of eczema, we do know that people whose family members have suffered from problems with eczema, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, food allergy and or asthma have more risk of developing this disease.
Above all, the environment can aggravate skin dryness and cause inflammatory outbreaks: this is the case with allergens (dust, hair, animals), soap, detergents, irritants such as wool, sweat, and heat.
– No more soaps and other cleansing products that strip the skin and deprive it of its protective layer. We choose specific hypoallergenic products that moisturize and reduce skin sensitivity. A rule to apply also when removing makeup.
-After the shower, wipe gently without rubbing and then moisturize the skin with an emollient which softens the skin and makes it more waterproof.
-We frequently apply a moisturizer that protects the skin from dryness, such as Cetaphil moisturizing emulsion from Restoradem (20 € for 295 ml) and Trixera emollient cream from Avène for dry atopic skin (14.35 € for 200 ml ).
Eczema: the right things to do to protect yourself
-One avoid long hot baths because otherwise the water irritates the skin. Short showers at medium temperature are preferred.
-We wear clothes in smooth cotton and silk type fabric, less aggressive on the skin. Ditto for the bed sheets.
-We use a natural detergent without softener
-To avoid scratching, keep fingernails short and filed. In the event of a severe crisis, we do not hesitate to put on cotton gloves or mittens.
-Rugs and carpets are often vacuumed to prevent the multiplication of dust mites. Children’s bed linen and soft toys are washed regularly.
-When you have perspired after playing sports, for example, you sponge your sweat with a damp cloth to avoid excess heat which promotes irritation.
-We wear gold and silver jewelry and avoid nickel
>> Read also “Baby eczema: the right actions”