What creams should we use after spotting red, flaky patches, which give itchy and burning sensation, on the skin? Is there a cosmetic which won’t irritate atopic lesions?

What is AD & what are the symptoms?

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a skin condition which is getting more and more common. It’s already got the name of a civilisation disease. AD symptoms include skin redness, dryness, itching, peeling, recurring bacterial infections. Due to irritative, contact or food allergens, the patient’s skin loses its protective coat, leading to the occurrence of lesions.

Can AD sufferers use creams?

People who suffer from atopic dermatitis can or even should use creams and other skincare products because the right skincare routine is able to prevent the appearance of atopic lesions. Creams for atopic dermatitis sufferers should have a simple composition (up to five ingredients) to reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.

A good cream for atopic skin should include:

• lipid-replenishing substances,
• moisturising ingredients,
• antipruritic substances.

Creams for atopic skin – replenishing properties

AD sufferers should go for products that are rich in emollients which rebuild hydro-lipid skin layer. Vegetable oils are the best emollients. Shea butter, Borage Oil, Rhealba Extract, Paraffin Oil and Squalane are emollients included in creams for atopic skin, too. On the other hand, beware of lanolin!

Creams for atopic skin – moisturising properties

Urea (10-20%) is the best hydrating ingredient. You can also try creams with glycerine, allantoin or sorbitol.

Creams for atopic skin – antipruritic properties

Pumpkin seed extract, Fucose and Glycyrrhiza glabra are effective antipruritic qualities. On the other hand, fragrances (e.g. linalool, geraniol, lilial) cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Atopic skin care isn’t easy because the most popular beauty products neglect the needs of AD sufferers. Still, devoting some time to finding proper cosmetics pays off because the right skin care routine soothes the symptoms and helps you cure atopic dermatitis.