How should I manage skin that has atopic dermatitis?

Causes of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic form of dermatitis characterized primarily by hives with itching that improves and worsens repeatedly. Its onset is thought to be caused by a combination of things to which one is inherently allergic (atopic disposition) and a variety of exacerbating factors (external factors). The factors that trigger an onset or exacerbation of atopic dermatitis can be classified as below into physical factors and environmental factors.

Causes of atopic dermatitis Exacerbating factors

Features of skin that has atopic dermatitis

Skin tends to dry out easily (decline in moisture retention capacity).
Repeated dryness causes the barrier function to decline, allowing external substances and irritants to penetrate the skin easily.
Allergens and bacteria, etc. that could normally be blocked get in and trigger inflammation, leaving skin prone to itching. When the barrier function declines, moisture also evaporates easily, often leading to a vicious cycle of further dryness and increased itching.
Improving such a situation requires appropriate skin care as well as treatment.

【Seasonal changes in symptoms】

In some seasons, itching increases and the condition worsens.
For example, sweat in the summer and dry air in the winter are common triggers. When you're not feeling well, even hypoallergenic cosmetic items that agree with your skin and that you can normally use may lead to irritation.
In that case, we recommend that you stop using those cosmetic items and simply wash your face with lukewarm water. After washing your face, use a moisturizing agent such as petroleum jelly.

Petroleum jelly

How to use cosmetics when there is atopic dermatitis

"Treatment is the first priority, but once symptoms improve after using medication, skin care can play a key role.
In the guidelines for treating atopic dermatitis, along with measures such as medication and searching for the cause, daily skin care (cleansing and moisturizing) is a mainstay of the treatment."

Cleansing Face washing that's gentle on the skin
Moisturizing
Makeup
UV ray care