Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common and persistent skin conditions. Although it is a very common condition, there is still no cure and medical treatments are not always really effective. Therefore, it is best to adapt your lifestyle and habits to reduce the symptoms. If you want to know how to achieve this, keep reading as we tell you everything about atopic dermatitis, from what it is and what types there are, to what not to do and what are the best natural remedies.

What is atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation, redness and itching of the skin. It is most common in babies and young children, but can also affect teenagers and adults. This condition, which is not contagious, is characterized by flare-ups that come and go, causing discomfort and changes in the skin, such as dryness and thickening over time.

Skin affected by atopic dermatitis is extremely sensitive and tends to react to stimuli that would not normally affect healthy skin, such as changes in the weather, sweat, detergents or fabrics. This is because the skin's protective barrier is weakened, allowing irritants and allergens to penetrate with great ease, triggering inflammatory reactions. Although there is no cure, proper care helps control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

Types of atopic dermatitis

There are several types of atopic dermatitis, which vary in the location and severity of symptoms:

Atopic dermatitis in children

It commonly appears in the first months of life. The most affected areas are the face, scalp, and the folds of the elbows and knees. As the baby grows, the affected areas often change.

Atopic dermatitis in adolescents and adults

At this stage, outbreaks are usually located in areas such as the neck, inside the elbows, behind the knees and on the hands. Symptoms include dry, scaly skin, along with intense itching.

Severe atopic dermatitis

Severe atopic dermatitis occurs when the condition becomes more aggressive, causing open wounds, infections and a significant impact on quality of life. It requires very intensive treatment and constant care to avoid complications.

Dyshidrotic eczema

A subtype that manifests on the hands and feet with small blisters that cause itching and pain. It is more common in young adults and tends to worsen in times of heat or stress.

Why does it happen?

Atopic dermatitis is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and immunological factors. People with this condition often have skin that lacks certain essential proteins that help maintain the skin barrier. This makes the skin more susceptible to dryness, irritation and allergens in the environment, as we explain in detail.

Environmental factors

One of the main triggers is environmental factors, such as contact with irritants or allergens present in cleaning products, soaps, perfumes or even clothing fabrics. There are certain materials used in clothing that tend to be particularly problematic, especially synthetic fabrics or those that have undergone manufacturing processes with harsh chemicals, such as dyes or fabric softeners. Wool, for example, is a fabric that tends to cause irritation on sensitive skin, due to its rough texture and its ability to retain moisture and heat. In addition, some fabric dyeing or finishing processes use chemicals that leave irritating residues on clothing.

Stress and extreme temperatures

Other factors that can trigger or aggravate atopic dermatitis include stress, extreme temperatures (both hot and cold), and excessive sweating. Certain foods or airborne allergens, such as dust or pollen, can also trigger flare-ups in predisposed individuals.

Immune response

The immune response is also a determining factor, since the immune system of people with atopic dermatitis is hyperreactive. This means that it responds excessively to stimuli that normally would not cause damage, causing inflammation and redness of the skin.

What are the symptoms?

Although all people with atopic dermatitis share some symptoms, they vary to a certain extent. The list of symptoms includes:

• Intense itching that worsens inflammation and causes skin lesions.
• Extreme dryness that contributes to flaking and thickening of some areas.
• Redness and inflammation, especially during flare-ups.
• Skin lesions caused by blisters, which when broken, exude liquid and form scabs.
• Thickening of the skin (lichenification)

How can I cure atopic dermatitis?

There is currently no definitive cure for atopic dermatitis, but it is possible to control symptoms and achieve a better quality of life through medical treatments and lifestyle changes. Treatments include:

• Intensive hydration : Keeping the skin well hydrated is essential to reduce dryness and prevent irritation. Use emollient creams or moisturizers rich in ingredients such as glycerin or shea butter.
• Topical medications : In more severe cases, doctors often prescribe corticosteroid creams to reduce inflammation and control flare-ups. Calcineurin inhibitors may also be prescribed.
• Therapeutic baths : Baths with colloidal oatmeal or special salts can help soothe irritated skin, reducing itching and inflammation.
• Beware of irritants : Avoid products containing fragrances, alcohol or harsh detergents, and opt for products designed for sensitive skin.
• Use of appropriate clothing : Soft, breathable cotton garments with OEKO-TEX certification are the most recommended, as they allow the skin to breathe and do not contain irritating active ingredients.

Home remedies for atopic dermatitis

To go a step further than what we mentioned in the previous section, we will tell you some home remedies that help relieve symptoms naturally and effectively:

Coconut oil

This oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent natural moisturizer. All you need to do is apply a thin layer to the affected areas to soothe itching and reduce dryness.

Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal baths help to soothe and calm irritated skin. This remedy is ideal for reducing inflammation and redness during flare-ups.

Aloe vera

Pure aloe vera gel has cooling and healing properties that relieve irritation and dryness. Like coconut oil, applying it directly to the skin provides immediate relief.

Evening primrose oil

Rich in essential fatty acids, evening primrose oil helps restore the skin's lipid barrier. It can be applied directly or taken as evening primrose supplements, always under medical supervision.

Cold compresses

Applying a cold compress to the affected areas greatly relieves intense itching and reduces inflammation. It also helps prevent excessive scratching, which always makes symptoms worse.

Apple cider vinegar

Diluting apple cider vinegar in water and applying it as a topical solution balances the skin's pH and acts as an antibacterial agent, reducing the risk of secondary infections.

Honey

Honey has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying it to the affected skin speeds up the healing process and also reduces irritation. However, you have to be careful with this remedy because a lot of the honey you find in the supermarket has added compounds to make it more liquid or sweeter. Ideally, it should be pure.

Rosehip oil

This oil is known for its ability to regenerate the skin and reduce inflammation. Applying a few drops to the affected areas will improve the appearance of the skin and relieve dryness.

Chamomile

Chamomile creams or infusions soothe inflamed skin and reduce redness. The most recommended method is to use a chamomile infusion as a toner to gently cleanse irritated skin.

Green tea

Drinking green tea or applying it as a skin toner also reduces inflammation thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps fight free radicals, promoting healthier skin overall.

Tips to relieve atopic dermatitis

Relieving the symptoms of atopic dermatitis and preventing future flare-ups requires a proper care routine. Part of the treatment should be prevention. For this we recommend:

Daily skin hydration

One of the most important steps is to keep your skin well moisturized. Use emollient creams without fragrances or irritating products that can damage the skin barrier, apply them at least twice a day, especially after bathing, when the pores are open and the skin absorbs the products better.

Wear clothing made from natural fibers and free of toxic materials.

Choosing clothes is essential to avoid skin irritation. Choose cotton garments that are soft and breathable, and that have not been made with toxic materials or processes that can irritate the skin. At Clotsy we offer OEKO-TEX certified garments made from organic cotton and natural fibers, free of aggressive chemicals and friendly to the environment. Ideal for sensitive skin and helping to reduce the risk of dermatitis outbreaks. In addition, Clotsy clothing is produced in local workshops and does not contain chemicals or pesticides.

Healthy eating

A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins helps improve skin health. Foods like salmon, walnuts, flax seeds, and green leafy vegetables are great for reducing inflammation. Some people find that avoiding processed or sugary foods helps reduce breakouts.

Use correct hygiene products

Soaps and shower gels with harsh ingredients, perfumes or sulphates dry out the skin and aggravate dermatitis. Ideally, use products specifically formulated for sensitive or atopic skin, such as soap-free and fragrance-free cleansing gels.

Avoid overdressing on hot days

On hot days, avoid overloading the body with layers of clothing or tight clothing, as this increases perspiration and causes irritation. Always opt for loose clothing made of breathable fabrics.

What should I not do if I have dermatitis?

Within all these best practices for treating dermatitis, there are also actions that should be avoided. These actions are:

• Scratching: This only worsens the irritation and causes wounds on the skin, increasing the risk of infections.
• Taking very hot baths: Baths with very hot water dry out the skin and remove natural oils, aggravating dermatitis.
• Excessive stress: Stress is a known trigger for dermatitis flare-ups. While it cannot always be avoided, it is important to adopt techniques that help to cope with it.
• Sun exposure without protection: Although moderate sun exposure can be beneficial, prolonged exposure without adequate sunscreen dries out and damages the skin.
• Using perfumes and fragrances: Most products with fragrances or perfumes irritate the skin of someone with dermatitis. It is best to avoid them or use products created specifically for people with dermatitis.

Conclusion

In short, atopic dermatitis is a daily challenge, but with an appropriate care routine and the use of natural products and remedies, it is possible to control symptoms and reduce flare-ups. The important thing is to always remember to consult a dermatologist to receive personalized advice and adapt solutions to your needs.