If you’re struggling with dry skin this winter, you’ll find that it can feel like a difficult fight to moisturize your skin. Frustration compound throwing dermatitis into the mix. No one wants to have a day to deal with an unpleasant, itchy rash.
Dermatitis refers to many skin conditions driven by inflammation, such as atopic dermatitis (a type of eczema) and contact dermatitis. Dermatitis is not always curable, but it is definitely treatable. With the help of prescription topical medications and many moisturizing, it is possible to control symptoms.
What is dermatitis?
Dr. Christina Boull, dermatologist at M Health Fairview and dermatologist at the University of Minnesota School of Medicine, says that there are many different types of dermatitis, but atopic and contact dermatitis are the most common. She says that a clinical diagnosis of dermatitis always comes from your primary care doctor or dermatologist.
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic skin condition in which dry, itchy red spots appear on various parts of the body, including the elbows, knees, and neck. If atopic dermatitis is more severe, the rash can become clear and cries. According to the American Association of Dermatology, this condition usually stems from childhood and affects 25% of children.
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Like other chronic diseases, symptoms of atopic dermatitis can be waves. We don’t always know what causes atopic dermatitis flare, but according to the UK National Health Service, it is said that a mixture of genetics, immune responses to allergens and irritants, and environmental factors (dryness, winter weather, etc.) It is thought. In most cases, atopic dermatitis slowly improves over time, says Boule.
Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin is exposed to substances that stimulate it, stimulate an allergic reaction, or cause itchy red rashes. Irritating contact dermatitis can be caused by many things, including regular exposure to cleaning materials with harsh chemicals. Fragrances and preservatives found in cosmetics. Wash your hands frequently. Similarly, allergic contact dermatitis has a wide range of potential triggers, including gemstones, latexes and certain metals found in plants (such as daffodils and tulips), according to the NHS.
It is possible to experience multiple types of dermatitis at the same time, Boule adds. Having atopic dermatitis predisposes to other forms of dermatitis, such as contact dermatitis, as the skin barrier is not as intact as you would like. She also says she can become vulnerable to a variety of skin infections.
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Will the dermatitis go away in the end?
“Eczema is chronic, so it’s not something we deal with once, it disappears and goes away. It’s something we manage,” Boule says. If someone has atopic dermatitis in childhood, they may have recurrent flares and require recurrent treatment. However, parents can help minimize flares in their children by following a consistent skincare routine that moisturizes and protects their skin.
When it comes to stimulant contact and allergic contact dermatitis, avoidance is the treatment. However, this can be a little difficult if the product or ingredient causing dermatitis is something that must be exposed to regularly (especially at work). However, there are several steps you can take to manage your symptoms.
Does your skin look like a glass?
How can I get rid of dermatitis?
Dermatitis is usually treated with skin care plans tailored to the individual needs. This usually involves a consistent combination of moisturizers and prescription medications.
When it comes to finding a good moisturizer, choose a product that is less allergic and slightly more consistent. “The rule of thumb is to choose a moisturizer that comes in your bottle, as opposed to lotions with a pump. This is more oil-based, not water-based,” Boull recommends. The best time to apply cream is right after you leave the shower. This locks in hydration.
The most common prescription treatment for dermatitis is topical corticosteroids, says Boule. In most cases, the use of corticosteroids can help eliminate the need for systemic treatment. However, if the dermatitis is more severe or does not respond well to topical treatment, your doctor may prescribe an injectable medication called oral corticosteroids or dupirumab at each mayonnaise clinic.
There are several other steps to minimize the chances of worsening your skin barrier. For example, when taking a shower, do not use fiery hot water. You should also try to avoid exclude skin dead skin cells from affected areas. This suggests Bouleh as it can further peel off the natural oils of skin and cause additional irritation. Additionally, think about the materials that enter your skin and hair products. Plant-based ingredients can be a common perpetrator of skin allergies, she says.