Actionsets help people take an active role in managing a health condition.  Atopic dermatitis: Taking care of your skin

How? - Learn the steps involved in taking action. How do I take care of my skin?

Good skin care is an essential part of controlling the itch and rash of atopic dermatitis. To help prevent a cycle of scratching, itching, and rash, keep your skin hydrated and identify and avoid skin irritants.

Keeping your skin hydrated

To care for your skin:

  • Soak in clean, warm—not hot—water for 3 to 5 minutes. Your skin will absorb water and still retain its natural oils. Losing the natural oils makes the skin drier. You may shower when atopic dermatitis is under control or when an outbreak is mild.
  • Avoid washing with soap during every bath. When soap is needed, use a gentle, nondrying product, such as Aveeno, Dove, Basis, or Neutrogena. Use soap regularly only on the underarms, groin, and feet, and rinse immediately afterward. Don't let children affected by atopic dermatitis sit in soapy water.
  • Avoid adding bath oils and bubble bath to the bathwater, because they can reduce your skin's ability to absorb water.
  • Avoid using scrub brushes or washcloths.
  • Pat your skin dry after a bath or shower. While your skin is still moist or even wet, apply a moisturizer immediately—within 3 minutes of leaving the bath or shower. Waiting longer allows the skin to dry out. Moisturizers include Aquaphor, Eucerin, or Purpose. For severe dryness, try petroleum jelly, mineral oil, or an all-vegetable shortening such as Crisco. Also apply the moisturizer several times a day.
  • In warm, humid climates, greasy lotions or moisturizers may block sweat glands and make your skin uncomfortable. For greater comfort, use:
    • An oil-free lotion, such as Cetaphil or Aquanil.
    • Cream-based or gel-based medications and cream moisturizers.
  • Talk to your health professional about using a wet bandage over the affected area. It can help relieve symptoms but may not be a good idea if medication is being used on the skin.

Avoiding skin irritants

Try to avoid skin irritants, such as:

  • Many soaps, lotions, and perfumes.
  • Scratchy clothing or bedding.
  • Places with low humidity.
  • Sunburn.
  • Sudden changes of temperature.
  • Excessive sweating.
  • Damp hands or feet.
  • Emotional stress.

Test Your Knowledge

  1. Daily washing with soap and water is an important part of skin care for atopic dermatitis.

    1. True
    2. False

Continue to Where? - Other resources and organizations that can help you take action. Where can I learn more about skin care for atopic dermatitis?
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Author: Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS Last Updated: May 5, 2008
Medical Review: Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine

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