Can moisturiser cure the atopic dry skin alone
Anti-aging products can still be natural, and moisturizing is an essential part of managing atopic dry skin. bareLUXE offers a wide range of non-greasy and unscented moisturizers that are ideal for use within three minutes after bathing to soothe and moisturize the skin. It’s important to choose the right moisturizer that suits your skin type, particularly during different seasons, as using a greasy moisturizer during a humid or dry season can clog sweat glands. While moisturizing can reduce dryness, it cannot cure all the symptoms associated with atopic dry skin, such as itching, which may require medication to relieve discomfort.
Introduction and Symptoms
Atopic dermatitis is also called eczema or atopic dry skin. It is a chronic condition where the skin becomes reddish and itchy. Its symptoms vary from person to person, but generally includes visibly reddish skin, itchy skin, small bumps on skin, and dry, cracked skin. Scratching the affected skin can cause fluids to leak, thereby complicating the problem.
Risk factors or causes
The causes of this skin problem are not totally clear, but chances of a person having AD are increased if they have family members with the problem. Complications in a person’s filaggrin gene (FGL) may also be a factor. According to research, about 70% of patients have some family history of the disease.
Treatments
There are a number of treatment options depending on the severity. Topical treatments, UV light (phototherapy), and oral medications are the primary choices.
Topical treatments: these are creams, lotions, and ointments that are rubbed into the skin. This is usually the first choice for treatment of AD. The topical treatments altogether include emollients, topical steroids, immuno-modulators, antiseptic solutions, tar preparations, and wet wraps. Emollients increase moisture in skin. They are a great way to control dry skin and hinder continual loss of moisture. Topical steroids are effective in mild to moderate conditions. Immunomodulators do not affect the skin’s barrier function and are most effective in the earliest stage of AD. Antiseptic solutions help against infections, and they include bleach baths and Condy’s crystals. Tar preparations reduce inflammation and itch. Wet wraps are used in cases where fluids are leaking in skin, by wrapping-up the affected area after rubbing cream or ointment.
Oral medications: These are ingested through the mouth and have proven effective. Among other things, they fight staphylococcus and streptococcus which are bacteria that increase AD symptoms. Oral medications include various antibiotics and antihistamines.
Phototherapy: Severe cases of AD may warrant treatment by ultraviolet therapy. The patient is exposed to regulated amounts of UV-A and (or) UV-B for specified periods of time. Photo-chemotherapy (PUVA or UVA 1) may become necessary for even more critical conditions.
Self care
The first line in self defence against AD is moisturizing of the skin. Apply creams, lotions, or ointment on damp skin immediately after a shower. This traps and locks-in moisture to keep skin hydrated and soft. This can be done multiple times daily. Also, avoid moisturizers that contain fragrances, unnecessary chemicals, and alcohol. Your diet is important also. Avoid any foods you know may cause an allergic reaction like lactose (milk), eggs, and peanuts. Avoid clothes and sheets made of rough-textured fabrics, and use cotton instead. Sweating due to warm temperatures can become a problem on infected skin. Avoid harsh soaps when bathing. Take shorter, cooler showers. Refrain from scrubbing skin in a harsh manner. Totally avoid scratching skin as this can cause the skin to leak fluids and result in staph infections.
Drugs used in treatment.
Antihistamines are used to target and reduce itching. Oral corticosteroids are taken for serious cases and treatment of wide-spread rash. Antibiotic, antifungal, and antiviral drugs are used if infections occur from scratching the rash. Different drugs perform different functions and have varying effects, so be specific with the pharmacist at the drugstore.