Neurodermatitis can become a burden for those affected. Here’s what you need to know about skin care.
As a chronic inflammatory skin disease, neurodermatitis progresses in phases. Symptom-free phases alternate with phases in which the skin is itchy and inflamed all over. We show what is important when it comes to skin care for people affected by neurodermatitis.
There are various triggers for neurodermatitis . The symptoms of so-called atopic eczema are described by many patients as worse in winter. Stress and long-term strain can also trigger or worsen relapses. However, those who suffer from neurodermatitis can also do a number of things to alleviate their symptoms. In addition to treatment by a good specialist, the right skin care is also important. This should not only be done during an attack. Rather, experts recommend basic care. This can counteract the disturbed skin barrier.
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Be careful with these creams and ointments
Targeted skin care for neurodermatitis helps against the symptoms . The focus should not only be on a short-term improvement in the feeling of the skin. Instead, one should rely on active support of the skin barrier. Creams based on mineral oil should be avoided, as should products that contain silicone. These can be recognized by the additives paraffin, paraffinum liquidum or dimethicones. They can reduce water loss and make the skin feel good – but only for a short time. Care products with emulsifiers are also counterproductive. These weaken the skin barrier even more.
Consider individual trigger factors
Atopic dermatitis patients should pursue different approaches in order to ensure as many symptom-free phases as possible. Because everyone has different triggers for an attack, the first thing to do is to find out the individual triggers. Can certain foods trigger a neurodermatitis flare-up? In fact, alcohol, coffee, and strong spices can be problematic. They increase blood circulation in the skin, which can make existing itching even worse. Bread and grain products made from wheat or rye are often poorly tolerated. Experts recommend a balanced diet and keeping a food diary. In this way, foods can be identified that can aggravate a neurodermatitis flare-up or cause it to develop in the first place.
This is what good care for neurodermatitis looks like
Careful skin care is part of the basic treatment for neurodermatitis. Dry skin must be avoided as it can cause inflammation, itching and burning. It is therefore better to avoid daily showers. Short baths with lukewarm water seem better tolerated. Bathe in clear water for five minutes. This will wash away dander and dirt. An oil bath additive can then be used. Medicinal bath additives, which the dermatologist prescribes, are also recommended.
After drying, creaming is mandatory. In the case of neurodermatitis, it is best to apply cream to the entire body twice a day. This can repair and strengthen dry skin. It is best to ensure that the creams and lotions used do not contain any fragrances, colorings or preservatives and are specially designed for sensitive skin. You can have positive experiences with care lotions with urea, for example. The urea it contains increases the penetration of other active ingredients and is therefore often used by dermatologists in combination or in alternation with creams containing cortisone.
Powders, creams and lotions containing tannins can also have a positive effect on mild skin inflammation and itching. The active ingredient ensures that the skin contracts and allows weeping wounds to dry. Equally positive are the slightly anti-inflammatory properties and the pain and itch-relieving effect. Another tip in connection with neurodermatitis are creams and lotions with Hyperforin. In consultation with the dermatologist, cortisone can be used in acute phases.
