- Emollients, akin to ceramides, which soften the pores and skin and create a protecting barrier
- Humectants, akin to glycerin, which are a magnet for moisture
- Occlusives, akin to petroleum jelly, which maintain in moisture
The concept right here is to scale back water loss within the pores and skin that contributes to cracking, Wieder says. The catch: If you have already got open wounds or fissures, a few of these merchandise may damage to use. “Generally when the pores and skin could be very cracked, solely occlusives may be tolerated, as a result of burning from lotions or lotions,” she says. In these instances, she recommends a therapeutic ointment akin to Vaseline, CeraVe, or Aquaphor.
All the time be sure these merchandise are labeled secure for delicate pores and skin and perfume free, says Dr. Sitabkhan, so that they don’t irritate atopic dermatitis additional.
Bleeding is normally minimal. You may discover specks of blood in your sheets within the morning, for instance. If it’s worthwhile to cease the bleeding from a minor wound, apply stress with clear gauze for a minute or two.
“When moisturizers aren’t sufficient, I prescribe topical corticosteroids that may actually assist clear up the cracking and fissured pores and skin,” says Wieder.
She opts for ointments over lotions to restrict discomfort whereas making use of them.
She suggests making use of the ointment, wrapping the atopic dermatitis wounds with damp gauze, after which overlaying it with a dry elastic bandage or cotton glove or sock in a single day.
“It’s going to assist heal the pores and skin quickly, and sufferers will usually really feel so much higher by the morning,” she says. This moist wrap system is the one sort of bandaging she recommends.
If the injuries are extra severe and there are indicators of an infection, you may want remedy with topical and even oral antibiotics, says Sitabkhan.
