Alleviating Atopic Eczema

Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is characterised by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.

Eczema or dermatitis can be classified into two big groups:

Exogenous: causes include irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis or photodermatitis.

Endogenous: causes include atopic eczema, seborrhoeic dermatitis, nummular eczema etc.

Treatment tips that can help with Alleviating Atopic Eczema in Adults

Prescription

• Topical corticosteroid cream
• Topical calcineuron inhibitor

Non-Prescription

• Whatever cleanser you use, it should have a pH as close to 5.5. as possible, should not strip the skin of the normal lipids and should preserve the skin’s microbiome.
• Avoid anti-bacterial soaps that will disturb the skin’s normal microbiome.
• Use moisturisers that contain ingredients similar to natural skin lipids.
• Avoid the scratch/itch/scratch cycle as this will exacerbate the area.

Treatment tips that can help with Alleviating Atopic Eczema in Children

Prescription

• Topical corticosteroid cream
• Topical calcineuron inhibitor
• Antibiotics for secondary infections

Non-Prescription

• A newborn baby’s skin is delicate and sensitive therefore it is essential to use the correct cleansers and moisturisers immediately from birth as this can help to prevent the onset of Atopic Eczema.
• Children with Atopic Eczema are more prone to bacterial as well as viral infections which often lead to secondary infections causing a flare of the Atopic Eczema.

Skincare ingredients that can help with Alleviating Atopic Eczema

• Thermal Spring Water from France
• Panthenol
• Ceramides
• Shea Butter
• Urea
• Betulin
• Centella Asiatica Extract

Skincare products that can help with Alleviating Atopic Eczema in Adults

Use a soap-free gentle cleanser that has been formulated for an impaired skin barrier that cleanses thoroughly without drying out the skin while maintaining a healthy skin acid mantle. Dr Webster recommends:

• Lamelle Serra Cleansing Gel
• La Roche-Posay Lipikar Syndet AP+

Moisturisers can help soothe and protect inflamed skin, helping restore its natural barrier function. They also create a barrier that forms a shield on the skin’s surface, protecting the skin against external aggressors. Dr Webster recommends:

• pHformula Vita D Cream
• ISDIN Nutratopic PRO-AMP® Facial Cream

Some individuals with atopic eczema may have increased sensitivity to sunlight, which can trigger or worsen their eczema symptoms. Sun exposure can lead to inflammation and irritation of the skin, resulting in flare-ups. Using SPF helps protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation and reduces the risk of exacerbating eczema symptoms. Dr Webster recommends:

• Avène SPF50+ Intense Protect
• Heliocare 360° Mineral Tolerance Fluid SPF 50

Use a body lotion formulated to optimally restore the skin barrier and improve the symptoms of itching, dry, uncomfortable skin. Dr Webster recommends:

• La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+
• ISDIN Nutratopic PRO-AMP® Emollient Cream

Skincare products that can help with Alleviating Atopic Eczema in Children

Children with atopic eczema may come into contact with irritants or allergens that can exacerbate their symptoms. Cleansing the skin with a gentle cleanser helps remove these irritants and reduces the risk of triggering or worsening eczema flare-ups. Dr Webster recommends:

• Mustela Stelatopia Cleansing Gel

The skin barrier in children with atopic eczema is often compromised, allowing moisture to escape and irritants to penetrate more easily. Moisturisers help repair and strengthen the skin’s barrier function, improving its ability to retain moisture and protect against external irritants. Dr Webster recommends:

• Mustela Stelatopia Emollient Cream

Children with atopic eczema have skin that is often more sensitive and prone to irritation. Sunburn can further exacerbate their skin condition, leading to increased itching, redness, and inflammation. Using SPF helps protect their skin from harmful UV rays and reduces the risk of sunburn. Dr Webster recommends:

• Heliocare 360° Pediatrics Mineral SPF 50+
• Bioderma Photoderm Pediatrics Spray SPF 50+

For more information: Atopic Eczema Support Group – South Africa