#千万IP创科学普# As the temperature drops in winter, how should we take care of atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is closely related to the seasons, like a silent dialogue between nature and human skin. In winter, with the sudden drop in temperature and the decrease in air humidity, the risk of impaired skin barrier function increases, and symptoms such as dryness, itching, erythema and papules often intensify. The stimulation of cold air and the heavy and non-breathable winter clothing have become "accomplices" in inducing or aggravating atopic dermatitis.

Dryness and cold are the two main reasons why AD worsens in winter. Dryness is relatively easy to understand. The skin of AD patients is dry. Some have primary barrier function damage or secondary skin barrier dysfunction. Dry air causes a significant increase in the amount of water lost from the skin to the environment, further aggravating the damage to the skin barrier function. Barrier damage can lead to inflammation, as well as the invasion of external small molecule chemicals and the colonization of microorganisms, forming a vicious cycle of amplification, aggravating or recurring dermatitis. The mechanism of the effect of cold on dermatitis is not fully understood. It is generally believed that the local skin or systemic stress response to cold leads to the release of inflammatory mediators, which in turn causes repeated or aggravated dermatitis.

Precautions for atopic dermatitis in winter

01. Gentle Cleansing

When cleansing your skin, you should choose mild, non-irritating cleansing products or shower gels; bathe with warm water (about 35°C) and avoid excessive bathing; be gentle and do not rub the skin.

02. Choose the right moisturizing skin care products

Apply generously and frequently, at least twice a day. Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes after getting out of the bath, when the skin is half dry and half damp. Use moisturizer anytime you feel dryness or itching. Apply the medication to the affected area first, then apply moisturizer all over the body. Rub the lotion with your hands to warm it up, and when it is warmed up, gently pat it into the skin with your palms, do not rub it hard. It is recommended that children use at least 100g per week, and adults use 250g per week.

03. Wear non-irritating clothing

I chose fluffy clothes because I was afraid of the cold, but synthetic fibers, woolen fabrics and other fabrics may aggravate AD. You can choose underwear made of natural fabrics, such as pure cotton and silk; or bamboo fiber, lyocell/Tencel fabrics.

04. Pay attention to your diet

It is advisable to eat a light diet and avoid spicy and greasy foods. Eat less seafood and sweets, and eat more vegetables and fruits. It is necessary to avoid food allergens, but there is no need to avoid them too much to avoid malnutrition caused by long-term nutritional deficiencies.

05. Exercise moderately

The weather is cold, and many people like to stay in their warm homes. However, for people with atopic dermatitis, it is very beneficial to ensure daily sun exposure, moderate exercise, and slight sweating for care and treatment. As the old saying goes, "Medicine is not as good as food, and food is not as good as exercise." Without a healthy and strong body, any treatment is in vain.

Although winter is cold, patients with atopic dermatitis can be effectively controlled in winter through good care and management, keeping a happy mood, and following the doctor's orders for adequate treatment and a full course of treatment!