Understanding Atopic Dermatitis & Its Treatment Options

As the largest organ in the human body, the skin needs adequate protection to stay healthy at all times. However, there are illnesses you need to look out for that can ultimately affect your overall well-being as well. One of them is atopic dermatitis, a disease typically distinguished as red and itchy skin.

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about atopic dermatitis, including available atopic dermatitis treatment options:

What Is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a skin condition that is often exhibited as red and itchy flare-ups in the skin. Most of the time, it’s children that get exposed to this condition. However, AD can even extend to adulthood, as some adults report experiencing flare ups every once in a while.

Scientifically, this disease breaks down the outermost layer of the skin, which is called the stratum corneum. The problem is that this part of the skin serves as a protective barrier against allergens, irritants, bacteria, and other foreign bodies. It’s also worth pointing out that people who have atopic dermatitis have immune systems that tend to overreact to certain superantigen-producing bacteria like staphylococcus. This overreaction then results in eczema outbreaks.

In a way, eczema—especially atopic dermatitis—can be seen as the chronic inflammation of the skin. The immune system’s inability to fight inflammation is compromised, resulting in outbreaks that last for weeks or more at a time. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses will also be able to go through the breaks in the skin and result in infection.

Usually, people with AD receive antibiotic treatments when they get infected. But worst-case scenarios might lead to sepsis, so it’s better to get treatment options prepared as much as you can to protect the skin barrier.

How to Treat Atopic Dermatitis

In treating atopic dermatitis, you have to think of two things. First, you should consider the issues of itching and drying skin. Then, you should also think about helping the skin become less susceptible to possible infection.

Traditionally, the first step of treatment is administering topical corticosteroids. These creams or treatments can address inflammation and help during AD flare-ups. Additionally, some doctors recommend topical immunomodulators as well, as they can be helpful for long-term management of the disease, mainly in helping the skin get sufficient defense against infection.

For more severe cases, patients might also be prescribed topical calcineurin inhibitors, as they control the T-cells and inflammation on the skin. Additionally, oral medication may be provided, including azathioprine, cyclosporine, and methotrexate.

When thinking about these treatments, it is essential to note that the cream’s potency must be carefully observed and based on the illness’s degree. Just like other medicines, they come with their side effects, so this is something you must be aware of.

Why Use Topical Products to Repair the Skin Barrier

Generally, creams and lotions are ideal as a remedy for dermatitis. They keep the skin moisturized, which helps prevent the itchy sensations and skin cracks brought by overdrying. When AD patients use the emollients designed to repair the skin barrier, they will notice an improvement in skin hydration and a reduction in the frequency of atomic dermatitis flare-ups.

Conclusion

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic disease. For some, this ailment involves lifelong treatment, as particular triggers show up every once in a while. However, keep in mind that there are different treatment options available for this disease. Ultimately, topical treatments can help you get rid of the itchy feeling and limit future occurrences of flare-ups.

If you’re looking for the best lotion for dry, itchy skin caused by atopic dermatitis, the SmartLotion from Harlan MD in the US is definitely worth the try. This treatment is the first-ever probiotic lotion produced to address symptoms of recurring dermatitis. It has sulfur that works to naturally reduce bad bacteria in the skin by acting as a prebiotic. It also has a low-strength hydrocortisone to fight inflammation.

Check out the SmartLotion today and see the difference in your skin!