What is eczema/dry skin?

Atopic Eczema

Atopic eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is an ordinary skin ailment that can appear in different places on the body and at various ages. Atopic eczema can occur from the age of 2 with redness and itching on both of the child’s cheeks. Eczema can also occur on the arms and legs, the crook of the elbows, the back of the knees and sometimes on the neck and body when the child gets older. In addition, adults can also develop atopic eczema.

Symptoms of atopic eczema

• Dry and itchy skin
• Red and thickened skin
• Red rash on the skin
• Food allergy is an accompanying illness to atopic eczema, which can give symptoms such as hives, asthma or stomach problems.

Why does atopic eczema occur?

The specific reason why atopic eczema occurs is unknown; however, we know that hereditary factors are of great importance. If one of the parents suffers from atopic eczema, there is a 30% risk that the child will develop the disorder as well. Moreover, about one-third of all people with atopic eczema have a gene defect in the filaggrin gene. This is a gene that controls our production of protein. If there are mutations of the filaggrin gene, this results in a reduced skin barrier function, which is a contributing factor to atopic eczema.

Prevent new outbreaks of atopic eczema

• Use moisturiser twice daily. Choose a cream that provides long-term moisture and is not greasy.
• Avoid wearing wool directly on the body
• Take short, cool showers every day
• Sleep at a cool temperature
• Avoid pets in the home
• Avoid tobacco smoke

Atopic eczema is affected by both internal and external factors such as stress and sun. If you are stressed, the eczema can flare up; similarly, too much sun is not good for the skin either. You can also risk a flare-up from too much sun. In addition, things such as dust, dry air, cold, pollen and dust mites can make eczema worse. Therefore, it is very important that you cleanse and care for your skin with products that are absolutely right when you suffer from atopic eczema.

If you would like to know more about atopic eczema and the optimal skincare for it, then you can learn more in this video.