Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a long-lasting skin condition that produces a strong itching and then a red, raised rash. It commonly develops in small children and continues into the adolescence years. Adults also may have it or have milder symptoms than they did as infants, along with sensitive-skin problems.
If you have atopic dermatitis, your skin is very sensitive to irritants and is prone to becoming itchy and developing a rash. The itch may seem to be relieved by scratching, but it often ends in a rash and produces a vicious circle of itching, scratching, and rash.
Skin afflicted by dermatitis must be kept well hydrated. Although researchers have yet to fully understand the triggers of atopic dermatitis, they already known that skin dryness plays a big part in exacerbating symptoms.
Good skin care is a vital part of controlling the rash and itch of dermatitis. To help avoid a cycle of itching, scratching, and rash, keep your skin hydrated and recognize and avoid skin irritants.
To care for your skin: - Soak in warm (not hot), clean water for 3 to 5 minutes. Your skin will absorb water and still retain its natural oils. Losing the natural oils will result in dry skin. You may shower when atopic dermatitis is under control or when an outbreak is mild.
- Avoid washing with soap during every bath. If you need some soap, use a gentle, non-drying product. Use soap regularly only on the underarms, groin, and feet, rinsing immediately afterward. Children afflicted by atopic dermatitis must not stay sit in soapy water.
- Don't add bath oils and bubble bath to the bathwater, because they can alter your skin's ability to absorb water.
- Don't use washcloths or scrub brushes.
- After a bath or shower, pat your skin dry. With your skin still moist or even wet, apply a moisturizer immediately, within 3 minutes of leaving the shower or bath. Your skin will dry out if you wait longer. For severe dryness, try mineral oil, petroleum jelly, or an all-vegetable shortening. Also apply the moisturizer several times a day.
- Talk to your personal doctor about applying a wet bandage over the afflicted patch. It can help relieve symptoms but may not be a good idea if some skin treatment is being administered on the skin.
And, of course, avoid skin irritants at all costs, such as certain cleansing products, scratchy clothing or bedding, sudden changes of temperature, sunburn, damp hands or feet, places with low humidity, excessive sweating, and emotional stress.
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Published July 17th, 2008
Filed in Beauty