Eucerin ©

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Eczema is the term for a group of medical conditions which cause the skin to become irritated and enflamed. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It affects approximately 15% of infants and children and 3% of adults in the US. Many people outgrow the condition during childhood, although some suffer with it throughout life.

Known as "the itch that rashes", eczema usually appears on the face, hands, and limbs and is accompanied by an intense itch. While the exact cause of the disease is unknown, the good news is that it can be at least partially managed with a good daily skin care regimen.

Atopic dermatitis affects the skin's barrier function—its ability to keep moisture in and irritants out. It also disturbs the formation of natural skin oils and lowers sweat secretion. As a result, skin loses moisture. Eventually, skin can become so dry that it cracks and fissures can develop, allowing bacteria and irritants to penetrate the skin and possibly cause infection.

Treatment—It Starts with Moisture!

It's essential to follow a good daily skin care routine. Keeping skin moisturized can help prevent flare-ups and reduce itch, which is important because scratching only irritates already inflamed skin. Your dermatologist or pediatrician may prescribe medications to help manage eczema, but they'll also tell you that daily moisturizing is your first line of defense against flare-ups.

Cleansing—Minimize Moisture Loss!

Try to take only one warm (not hot) bath or shower per day, and limit it to 15 minutes. This helps prevent skin's natural moisturizers from being stripped away. Avoid soaps and instead, wash with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. After bathing, gently pat away excess water with a soft, absorbent towel and apply moisturizer while skin is still damp, to help seal in moisture.

Moisturizing—Your First Line of Defense!

Rehydration through the use of moisturizers is essential in helping re-establish skin's natural barrier, which keeps moisture in and irritants out. Use moisturizers at least twice a day... even more if you feel that you need it. Choose a fragrance-free moisturizer that's safe for sensitive skin. Eucerin has several choices for this skin type.

To effectively moisturize and prevent itch, use Eucerin Calming Creme with soothing oatmeal, every day. However, if skin becomes cracked or raw during a flare-up, soothe, protect and help heal it with Aquaphor Healing Ointment. If skin is extremely sensitive, or if your physician recommends a thicker, occlusive moisturizer, try Eucerin Original Creme or Lotion.