Q&A for managing atopic dermatitis

  • What about makeup when symptoms are strong?
  • When symptoms such as redness and itching are present, any cosmetics you use will likely irritate the skin, so it's basically best to not use cosmetics. After the appropriate treatment at a dermatological clinic, once the condition improves and you get the doctor's permission, you can resume caring for the skin with cosmetics.
    (As minimal skin care, some doctors may direct you to wash your face with lukewarm water and to use a moisturizing agent such as petroleum jelly.)
  • Can I use medication and cosmetics at the same time?
  • When it comes to medication, follow the directions of your dermatologist. As for makeup, we recommend that you start using it only after symptoms have subsided, and check how it goes. Consult your doctor thoroughly about whether it's OK to apply medication and cosmetics on top of each other or if it's better to apply different things on the affected area than on the rest of the face.
  • What should I be careful about when trying or resuming a new cosmetic item?
  • Be sure your skin is in good condition, and try one item at a time. If you try several items at once and trouble arises, you won't know which item exacerbated your condition.
    So try one item at a time to find what products agree with your skin.
  • How can I avoid exacerbating factors in daily life?
  • 【Be careful about what touches your skin, even besides cosmetics】

    Choose undergarments and stockings, etc. that are non-irritating and have a smooth texture. Sweaters made with animal hair, for example, tend to exacerbate atopic dermatitis, so be careful. Also some laundry detergents and the like can be irritants. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.

    【Be careful about a nutritional balance】

    If your atopic dermatitis gets worse after eating a certain food, you shouldn't eat the offending food.
    But the nutrients the body needs are also important for the skin's metabolism, so if you don't get enough of them, the condition may worsen.
    It's best to be careful about a nutritional balance and avoid extreme dietary restrictions.

    【Keep your room clean】

    Mites and house dust are also some of the environmental factors that exacerbate atopic dermatitis. Be careful to keep your home or room well-ventilated, clean indoors frequently, and avoid using cloth sofas or carpets over a straw mat floor, for example, as they are prone to mites.

    【Relieve stress regularly】

    Mental stress is also often an exacerbating factor.
    Make a point of engaging in moderate exercise and relaxing so as to avoid allowing stress to build up.

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