Neurodermatitis, also known as atopic eczema, is a skin condition characterized by extreme dryness, redness, and severe itching. Those affected are severely impacted by this skin condition, as it is ever-present and greatly limits their choice of clothing and skin care products. It manifests in varying degrees of severity—ranging from episodic flare-ups with periods of improvement to a chronic condition.
Key Points at a Glance:
- The main symptoms are redness, severe itching, and extreme dryness of the skin.
- Infants and children are most commonly affected, but atopic dermatitis can persist into adulthood as well.
- There are many different causes of this skin condition, ranging from genetically predisposed dry skin to allergic reactions to foods, skin care products, and laundry detergents, as well as psychological factors such as stress.
What causes atopic dermatitis?
There is no single, universally accepted cause of this skin condition. It is believed that several triggers combine to produce the characteristic symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Congenitally dry skin is generally very sensitive and prone to irritation and disturbances. The skin barrier is compromised, causing the skin to dry out. Stress, dry winter air, and unfamiliar substances on the skin—such as skincare products, laundry detergents, or fabric softeners—can immediately trigger a flare-up. It is notable that people with this condition often also tend to have allergies to pollen, animal dander, or certain foods.
Atopic dermatitis is very common in infants and toddlers. The scalp may be covered with cradle cap, but a widespread rash is also not uncommon. Often, the atopic dermatitis improves or even resolves completely after a few months or by the time the child reaches school age. Quite a few adults suffer from atopic dermatitis—to varying degrees—throughout their lives or during specific life stages.
What are the symptoms of this skin condition?
The affected areas of skin are very dry, itch intensely, flake, ooze, and are red and irritated. The condition primarily affects the inner elbows and knees; in children, it also affects the face, arms, and legs. Scratching is often unavoidable but provides only short-term relief from the excruciating itch. However, this causes further damage to the skin, leading to inflammation and scabbing. As the skin heals, the itching returns. That is why keeping the skin moisturized and soothed is extremely important. A complete cure is rarely possible, but a noticeable improvement can be achieved.
Which ointments and creams are really effective against atopic dermatitis?
Proper skin care can help alleviate symptoms. Moisturizing creams and ointments can already go some way toward relieving itching and dryness. Nature offers a number of “miracle cures.” These include Dead Sea salt, witch hazel (so-called for good reason), cardiospermum, and nourishing plant oils. There are also numerous non-plant-based active ingredients that soothe the skin and relieve symptoms.
We recommend tried-and-true products containing mild active ingredients in the form of bath products, creams, ointments, or lotions. These can be used safely over the long term. If you don’t have the opportunity to visit the Dead Sea, you can bring a piece of it into your own bathtub with Dead Sea salt crystals. There is a wide selection of cleansing and moisturizing products available.
In severe cases or during periods of very severe symptoms, prescription-only products prescribed by a doctor can provide relief.
