How to Combat Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, sometimes referred to as eczema, is a common and frustrating skin condition characterized by inflammation, dry skin, and rashes. It is a kind of allergy that affects the body’s first line of defense against infectious agents. It is more commonly seen in children; they normally outgrow the condition, but the condition may recur in adulthood or adolescence.

Atopic dermatitis can be diagnosed by a doctor’s examination of symptoms. Atopic dermatitis can be controlled by some very simple home remedies.

Some of the common home tips to care for this skin condition include:

1. Awareness – Once diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, understanding the condition and the causes will help to tackle the symptoms effectively. In most cases, the condition is caused by environmental factors and knowledge of the condition and the factors leading to the same will be of help in preventing the condition from becoming worse.
2. Luke warm wash – Lukewarm wash and bath are preferred over hot water or steamy showers that strip the skin off its natural protective oily layer. Use lukewarm water and pat dry the skin after a bath to prevent the symptoms.
3. Use mild soaps – Harsh soaps such as the foaming, deodorant, scented, antibacterial ones are the culprits that causing dry and itchy skin. Harsh soaps often contain additives that irritate and remove the fatty protective layer from the skin. Use mild fragrance-free soaps for cleansing.
4. Moisturize well – Oil-based moisturizer will help to lock the moisturizer in the skin. To get the best out of the cream, one has to apply it immediately after the bath. Proper use of good moisturizer helps to keep the skin hydrated and helps to reduce the symptoms of dermatitis such as itching and burning.
5. Control itching – Itching can be controlled by many anti-itch and other topical medications. A dermatologist can help to choose the creams that suit a particular skin type.
6. Avoid skin infections – Dermatitis increases the risk of other skin infections, especially staph infection. Look out for the signs of bacterial infections, such as redness, scaly patches, crusting, blisters, swelling, inflammation and fever.
7. Dilute bleach baths – Diluting the bleach baths will help to prevent infections and control the symptoms of the disease. These baths can be restricted to twice a week in case of moderate to severe forms of atopic dermatitis.