Atopic eczema in adults - 9 tips for prevention
Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that can also occur in adults. Atopic eczema in adults has the same cause as in children. However, its symptoms are different and affect different parts of the body. It is caused by a genetic predisposition to allergies combined with impaired skin function.
It manifests itself as dry, itchy and red skin, often with blisters and scabs. Symptoms can occur on various parts of the body, such as the face, neck, elbows, behind the knees and hands. It is important to keep the skin moisturised and avoid irritants and allergens that can worsen the symptoms.
Symptoms:
Atopic eczema in adults occurs in several forms.
•In skin folds, behind the knees and on the forearms as red, itchy, dry and cracked patches.
•On the palms and between the fingers in the form of subcutaneous pimples that burst into blood, ooze or cause the skin to peel in flakes.
•On the legs and hands as oval dry red patches.
•On the neck and face as acne-like itchy pimples that merge into spots.
•In the hair as itchy and flaky skin.
Most common areas of occurrence:
•Face (including the area around the eyes), neck, décolleté.
•Scalp.
•Inner elbows, popliteal fossae.
•Hands, insteps.
Causes:
•Genetic predisposition: Atopic eczema is often hereditary, which means that if you have atopic eczema in your family, you are at increased risk of developing it yourself.
•Immune system: In people with atopic eczema, the immune system is hypersensitive to certain substances, which then manifest themselves on the skin.
•Allergens: Irritants such as detergents, soaps, perfumes, but also food allergens (e.g. cow's milk, nuts) can worsen the symptoms of atopic eczema.
•Hormonal changes: In women, hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause or the menstrual cycle can affect atopic eczema.
•Stress: Emotional stress can also worsen the symptoms of atopic eczema.
Treatment:
Skin care: Regular moisturising of the skin with emollient creams and ointments is the basis of treatment.
Avoiding allergens and irritants: In adults, it is important to avoid substances that can worsen the symptoms of atopic eczema, such as perfumed skin products.
Antihistamines: In case of itching, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines to relieve the itching.
Corticosteroids: In the acute phase of the disease, topical corticosteroids are used to help suppress inflammation.
Prevention tips:
1. Use mild, unscented detergents.
2. Avoid hot baths.
3. Avoid rubbing and scratching.
4. Bathe regularly in lukewarm water.
5. Moisturise the skin immediately after bathing while it is still damp.
6. Wear clothing made from natural materials.
7. Avoid stressful situations.
8. Use high-quality, gentle skin cleansing products.
The main trigger for atopic symptoms in adults is the environment. Contact allergens are present everywhere, on the ground, in the air and in water. Atopic skin can react to cosmetics, perfumes, chemicals, animal hair and feathers, dust, metals, soil, mites, pollen and thousands of other substances.
Atopic eczema in adults is the most common cause of occupational skin diseases.
People who are prone to atopic eczema should pay close attention to skin care and use protective products, at least in the form of a barrier cream, to gradually restore the skin and its natural barrier.
Our 9th tip. Dermaguard cream creates an invisible protective shield on the skin against most allergens found in the environment. Because allergens cannot penetrate the skin, it remains unirritated. The protection lasts for around 4-6 hours. The cream also effectively moisturises the skin without leaving it feeling greasy and strengthens the skin barrier. It can be used on any part of the body except mucous membranes. The cream contains dimethicone, which gradually evaporates from the skin under the influence of sweat acidity. The cream is unscented.
