How to treat atopic skin

Skin diseases are numerous and access to care is increasingly difficult, while one in two French people has a complex about their skin (Ifop study for Sanofi), a phenomenon accentuated by social networks.

Eczema is a much-discussed condition. The most common forms are atopic dermatitis and contact eczema. We explain the causes and how to alleviate the symptoms.

How to recognize eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that progresses in flare-ups. It is common in children, but can occur at any age.

It's characterized by hypersensitivity, dry skin and sometimes red, itchy lesions that can crack or ooze if left untreated.

There are two main types: atopic dermatitis (or atopic eczema) and contact dermatitis.

Contact eczema: the lowdown

Contact eczema is caused by an allergic reaction that leads to skin inflammation. This reaction occurs when the skin comes into contact with an allergen where the skin has been exposed to it. It can remain localized or spread to other parts of the body.

Contact eczema can occur in people with no genetic predisposition.

What is atopic dermatitis?

Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease caused by genetic factors that predispose to hypersensitivity. It therefore differs from contact dermatitis, which is acquired and can be treated by mimicking the trigger.

It's important to note that atopic dermatitis isn't contagious, which means you can't contract it from someone you know who has it.

Who is affected by atopy?

This disease can affect people in adulthood, but tends to appear very early in life. It is thought to affect more than 2.5 million people in France.

What causes atopic eczema?

Atopic dermatitis is caused by a multitude of factors: genetic predisposition, atopic terrain and environmental sensitivity.

The precise causes of this skin condition are not fully understood, but here are some of the factors involved:

• Genetic factors: atopy-prone skin occurs in people with a family history of allergic diseases such as eczema, asthma or allergic rhinitis.
• Immune system dysfunction: people with atopic dermatitis have an overactive immune system and increased reactivity to allergens and irritants, leading to an inappropriate inflammatory response in the skin.
• Impaired cutaneous barrier: allergens penetrate the skin more easily, aggravating inflammation. The efficacy and role of the cutaneous barrier are therefore reduced.
• Environmental factors: these can aggravate the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. They can include dust mites, molds, irritating chemicals, temperature changes, stress, etc.

What are the symptoms of atopic dermatitis?

The main symptoms of atopic dermatitis are dry skin, itchy red patches, thickening of the skin, the appearance of small blisters and alternating periods of eczema flare-ups and remission.

The flare-ups are always accompanied by severe itching, which makes you irritable and prevents you from sleeping.

During remission phases, the skin remains dry and tight, to the point of itching.

Atopic dermatitis appears mainly in the elbow and knee creases, as well as on the hands, neck and face.

The condition of your atopic skin

Dry skin :

In atopic dermatitis, skin lipid production is limited. Skin is therefore often very dry, which contributes to the fragility of the cutaneous barrier and loss of moisture. It is therefore important to constantly moisturize the skin with moisturizing active ingredients and ceramides.

Impaired skin barrier :

The skin barrier in people with atopic dermatitis is compromised. It no longer fulfills its protective role, allowing allergens and irritants to easily penetrate the skin.

Chronic inflammation :

Atopic dermatitis is characterized by persistent skin inflammation. Immune cells overreact to irritants and external aggressions, leading to excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (signaling molecules produced in response to infection) which then promote and amplify the body's inflammatory response.

Redness :

Chronic inflammation will cause redness that will be visible on different parts of the body.

Itching and skin lesions:

They are the most frequent symptom of atopic dermatitis. They cause great discomfort and can lead to skin lesions caused by excessive scratching.

How to get rid of your atopic eczema?

Unfortunately, it's not possible to get rid of atopic eczema, which is a chronic condition. But there are ways of reducing symptoms and soothing itching.
Here are a few steps you can take to help manage atopic eczema:

Consult a dermatologist for a precise diagnosis and advice specific to your situation.

Moisturize your skin: it's essential for maintaining your skin barrier and reducing dryness. Use fragrance-free moisturizers whenever your skin needs them.

Avoid triggers: identify the triggers of your eczema flare-ups and avoid them as much as possible.

Manage stress : it can make eczema symptoms worse.

Wear soft, breathable clothing: rough clothes can irritate the skin and contribute to inflammation.

Avoid excessive washing of the skin: especially with hot water for too long, which can cause dehydration.

Which ingredients are right for atopic skin? 

It is essential to see a dermatologist for precise recommendations. However, here are a few ingredients commonly recommended for atopic skin:

Ceramides : these are lipids naturally present in the skin barrier. They help strengthen this barrier and prevent moisture loss.

Hyaluronic acid : can retain up to 1000 times its weight in water, helping to keep skin hydrated.

Glycerin: attracts moisture from the surrounding air and retains it in the skin. It also reinforces the skin barrier and prevents transepidermal water loss.

Natural oils: some oils are rich in fatty acids and help seal in moisture.

Niacinamide: known for its moisturizing and soothing properties that help strengthen the skin barrier.

What habits and treatments can aggravate atopy? 

Certain habits can aggravate the symptoms of atopy. Here are a few examples:

Aggressive soaps and shower gels : cleansing products containing perfumes, colorants or strong foaming agents (sulfates, MEA, TEA...) can irritate atopic skin. It is therefore preferable to use gentle cleansers with rebalancing ingredients such as probiotics.

Excessive hot water : can dry out the skin and aggravate dryness.

Excessive rubbing : when you get out of the shower, it's best to gently pat the skin dry.

Perfumes and scented products : perfumes and scented skincare products can trigger allergic or irritant reactions. We therefore recommend using fragrance-free skin care products.