What is Atopic Dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is a very common chronic skin condition in kids in which the skin gets irritated, dry, red, and itchy. Usually, it appears between three and six months.
What causes Atopic Dermatitis?
- Genetics. Kids with a family history of asthma, allergic diseases, eczema are more likely to have atopic dermatitis. Studies have shown that mutations in filaggrin, a skin protein, are usually linked to Atopic Dermatitis.
- Immune system dysfunction. Weak immune system can be the reason of early atopic dermatitis.
- External factors. This includes dryness, heat, sweating, food, skin infections, and using irritating substances such as harsh soap and certain kind of clothes.
What does it look like?
Symptoms can be a bit different in every child but usually it has the same pattern. Localization of lesions varies in different age. In babies, it usually affects the face, neck, knees, and elbows while in children, it appears on the skin inside of elbows, back of the knees, mouth area, ankles, wrists, and hands.
- Skin dryness
- Itching
- Redness and swelling
- Thickened skin
- bumps that can be crusty and leak fluid
- Darkened skin of eyelids and around the eyes
- Changes of the skin around the mouth, ears and mouth
How can you prevent baby Atopic Dermatitis?
The best advice for all parents is to avoid common triggers that can be the cause of the disease.
- Allergens. Try to avoid possible allergen such as certain type of food, dust, pets, etc.
- Moisture. Keep your baby skin well moisturized by using good quality baby lotions.
- Harsh chemicals. Use only sensitive detergents or soaps.
- Clothes. Dress your baby in good quality lightweight clothes.
Also Read: What Should Be Your Skincare Routine to Reduce Rosacea?
