Atopic dermatitis (or atopic eczema) is an increasingly common skin disease that affects adults, children and babies, regardless of skin color and place of residence. Children are most at risk, with 90% of cases developing atopic dermatitis before the age of 5. Some of them "outgrow" the disease with age. It rarely starts at an older age.
Symptoms appear on the scalp, face and body, with affected areas differing in infants, children and adults:
- Babies can show symptoms when they are 2-3 months old. The rash usually appears suddenly, with the skin becoming dry, scaly and itchy. In acute phases, it can even secrete. Usually, atopic dermatitis in babies appears on the face - more specifically on the cheeks - scalp, knees and elbows. Very rarely, babies have atopic skin in the diaper area. Although a rash may appear in this area, the skin there is too moist for atopic dermatitis to develop.
- Children who develop the disease later (between 2 years and puberty) usually get a body rash thatis dry and itchy. The elbows and knees, neck, wrists, ankles are usually affected. In Caucasian children, for example, symptoms appear on the inside of the elbows, wrists, back of the knees, and ankles. Conversely, children with darker skin and those of Asian descent are affected at the top of the elbows or the front of the knees.
- Atopic dermatitis in adults is characterized by very dry, scaly skin and continuous itching on the face or body.
How can I know that my child is in the acute phase of atopic dermatitis?
You may know your child is going through an acute phase if…
- Has moderate to severe itching.
- His skin is inflamed and painful.
- The skin secretes or even bleeds.
The child may not be in acute phase if…
- Applying moisturizers soothes the symptoms.
- The child's symptoms can be relieved without combing.
- The skin is only slightly cracked.
If you are unsure about your child's symptoms, seek the opinion of a dermatologist.
Atopic dermatitis usually occurs in two phases. During the quiescent (symptom-free) period, the skin is very dry, irritated, cracked and in need of daily hydration. During the acute phases (with inflammation) additional care is needed, such as the application of topical medications to calm inflammation and itching.
Plush toys (it is recommended to be made of cotton materials) can distract the child and prevent scratching.
This disease can be very stressful, affecting not only the children, but also their parents, who find it difficult to protect them from scratching. Children and babies sometimes rub their bodies against blankets or other surfaces to relieve itching, but this can lead to skin infections.
Itching can make sleep difficult, further stressing parents. Therefore, effective treatment and appropriate skin care can greatly relieve the discomfort of atopic dermatitis.
Dermo-cosmetic care for dry and irritated skin
The Eucerin® AtopiControl product range contains a cream for intensive soothing care as well as maintenance products suitable for periods without manifested symptoms. The products are free of perfumes, dyes and parabens. They are suitable for children over 3 months. They are clinically and dermatologically tested, with proven tolerance by atopic skin.
Eucerin AtopiControl Intensive Soothing Cream is clinically proven to improve the condition of the skin during acute phases. Soothes irritated skin, relieves itching, reduces redness. Contains a complex of restorative Omega 6 fatty acids, soothing Licochalcone A, antibacterial Decandiol and cooling Menthoxypropanediol.
AtopiControl Cleansing Oil gently cleanses, soothes itching and protects the skin from drying out. Suitable for daily hygiene.
AtopiControl Soothing Body Lotion and AtopiControl Soothing Cream intensively moisturize the skin, relieve itching, reduce redness, absorb quickly and soothe rough and irritated skin. Suitable for daily care.
Eucerin AtopiControl INTENSIVE Hand Cream is suitable care for hands with eczema, including atopic skin. It can be used both during inflammation and in calmer phases of atopic dermatitis. Soothes the hands during times of inflammation and works as a primary treatment during calmer periods.
