Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to become dry and itchy. It is usually also associated with eczema. The itching in this skin condition is often annoying. However, don’t scratch it! There are several ways to suppress the itching from atopic dermatitis.
The itching in atopic dermatitis occurs due to an overactive immune response, where inflammation and irritation occur to the skin. By scratching the itching, it will cause the skin condition to get worse. This can cause scratches, bleeding, infection, to pain in the skin.
This urge to scratch will certainly interfere with what you are doing. Starting from activities, sleeping, and even having difficulty concentrating because you want to keep scratching your skin. However, you should stop scratching! You need to start doing these things.
As reported in Health, you can do several things when the itch appears and you start to feel like scratching, namely:
1. Apply moisturizer
Atopic dermatitis often occurs in dry skin. This dry skin condition will bring the itching sensation. Dry skin occurs because there is a problem in the skin barrier, where it does not experience proper moisture. So, applying moisturizer will help the skin to calm down.
So that the skin does not always feel itchy, it is better to apply moisturizer twice a day, especially after bathing or cleaning the area affected by atopic dermatitis. Choose a moisturizer without fragrance to get calmer results for the skin.
2. Cold compress
Since atopic dermatitis causes dry skin, a cold compress will help to soothe the itchy area, especially the heat, because it can’t stand to be scratched. You can use a soft towel and dip it in cold water, then apply it to the itchy and dry skin.
3. Changing habits
The technique of changing habits is quite difficult, but it will help. If every itch comes, resist the urge to scratch. You can replace it with gentle rubbing until the itch begins to subside. If this is too difficult, you need to see a counselor for guidance.
4. Stress management
Did you know that stress affects the itching that comes with atopic dermatitis? Whether you realize it or not, the itching in atopic dermatitis will be more painful when you are stressed. For that, it is very important in stress management. You can do some of these things, namely:
– The importance of getting enough and quality sleep. Make sure your bed and the condition of the room environment are comfortable for you.
– Meditate if you feel stressed too much, to calm your mind.
– Do physical activities to relieve stress, whether it is light or heavy. Do what you like.
– Limit your consumption of social media and news that tends to stress you out.
5. Pay attention to cleaning products
Unfortunately, atopic dermatitis is not compatible with some cleaning product ingredients, both for clothing and body care. Cleaning products that contain fragrances tend to increase itching in atopic dermatitis.
So, choose products that are suitable for people with atopic dermatitis. If you are confused, you can consult a dermatologist directly to get the right advice according to your health condition.
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