Atopic eczema

Atopic eczema: diagnosis, treatment and care

Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that can affect people of all ages. The condition is characterised by dry, itchy and inflamed skin, which can have a significant impact on quality of life. In this blog post, we highlight the characteristics of atopic eczema, discuss the role of occlusive cosmetic products in its treatment and introduce the beneficial active ingredients in these products.

What is atopic eczema?

The term ‘atopic eczema’ is a collective term for a group of inflammatory skin conditions characterised by redness, itching, dryness and sometimes blistering. Atopic eczema can take various forms, including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis and others.

Atypical eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a more specific form of eczema. It is a chronic disease that often begins in childhood and is characterised by a genetic component. Atopic dermatitis often occurs together with other allergic diseases such as hay fever and asthma. The skin of atopic dermatitis sufferers is particularly susceptible to irritation and infection and is often hypersensitive to environmental stimuli and allergens.

To summarise, skin eczema is a generic term for various forms of eczema, while atypical eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a specific form with certain genetic and environmental factors.

Treatment options with occlusive cosmetics

Occlusive cosmetics are an essential part of the treatment of atopic eczema. They form a protective barrier on the skin that prevents the penetration of irritants and locks in moisture. This is particularly important as dry skin is one of the main symptoms of eczema.

What is occlusivity?

Occlusivity refers to the ability of a cosmetic product to form a physical barrier on the skin that minimises water loss and retains moisture. Ingredients such as petrolatum, medicated white oils, silicones, waxes and various oils are particularly effective in supporting the skin’s natural barrier function.

Silicones in skin care

Silicones are popular in the cosmetics industry because they have a smooth texture and form a protective barrier on the skin that locks in moisture. This is particularly beneficial in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. However, there are concerns about the environmental impact of silicones as they are poorly biodegradable and can have potentially harmful effects on aquatic ecosystems.

Mineral oil in skin care products

Mineral oil is known for its excellent occlusive properties, which help to retain water in the skin, preventing dryness and cracking. However, there are concerns about the purity of mineral oils and their environmental impact as they are of petrochemical origin.

Conclusion on silicone and mineral oil

The choice between products containing silicone and mineral oil depends on individual skin needs and environmental considerations. Consumers should weigh the pros and cons of these ingredients and choose products that are effective and safe for their specific skin condition.
When you commission us to develop new products, we need to discuss the yes/no of silicones and mineral oils and, ideally, provide your customers with scientifically sound information.

Beneficial active ingredients in cosmetics for the treatment of atopic eczema

Choosing the right active ingredients in cosmetic products is crucial to alleviating the symptoms of atopic eczema and promoting skin health. The most effective ingredients include

Ceramides: Support the skin barrier and help keep the skin supple.
Glycerin: A humectant that absorbs water from the environment and binds it in the skin.
Hyaluronic acid: Binds large amounts of water and helps to deeply moisturise the skin.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3): Has an anti-inflammatory effect and strengthens the skin barrier.
Aloe vera: Soothes and heals inflamed and irritated skin.
Colloidal oatmeal: Soothes itching and calms the skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Here you will find further active ingredients that could be used in a new product line for the treatment of atopic eczema:

Conclusion

The treatment of atopic eczema requires a comprehensive approach that combines medical and cosmetic products. Occlusive cosmetics offer important protection by protecting the skin from further damage and supporting its natural moisture barrier. By selecting suitable products with the active ingredients mentioned, the symptoms of atopic eczema can be effectively alleviated and skin health improved.

Cosmacon can develop and manufacture new, high-quality products for the treatment of atopic eczema for you. Simply get in touch with us.

Literature:

Oral and Topical Probiotics and Postbiotics in Skincare and Dermatological Therapy: A Concise Review.

De Almeida CV, Antiga E, Lulli M.Microorganisms. 2023 May 27;11(6):1420

A 1% colloidal oatmeal OTC cream is clinically effective for the management of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in Black or African American children.

Lisante TA, Kizoulis M, Nuñez C, Hartman CL.J Dermatolog Treat. 2023 Dec;34(1):2241587

Prevalence of major food allergens in skincare products for atopic dermatitis.

Ryczaj K, Chojnowska-Wójtowicz M, Dumycz K, Feleszko W, Kulus M.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2023 Dec;40(6):762-765.