MYTHS ABOUT ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Welcome to a new entry in our Atopic Dermatitis blog!

As you will know from previous posts, atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people around the world. However, despite its prevalence in the general population, there are still myths about atopic dermatitis that we would like to dispel. Let’s discover them!

HOW MUCH DO WE REALLY KNOW?

In Spain, surprisingly, 20% of Spanish people do not know what atopic dermatitis is and 50% mistakenly believe that it can be cured with creams.

So today we want to debunk some of the most common myths about atopic dermatitis and provide accurate information for people with the condition.

COMMON MYTHS ABOUT ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Here are the most common myths about atopic dermatitis… And don’t believe everything you’re told!

MYTH 1: DERMATITIS ATOPICA CAN BE CURED

This is undoubtedly one of the most common myths. The reality is that there is no definitive cure for eczema. It is a chronic condition that can be controlled, but not completely eliminated, with the right treatments. Treatments may include the use of creams, topical corticosteroids, immunomodulators and, in severe cases, systemic therapies.

This is where DermControl comes in. This treatment has a revolutionary formulation that helps to relieve itching and redness and can even reduce flares of atopic dermatitis. Although DermControl is not a cure, regular use can significantly reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with the condition.

MYTH 2: DERMATITIS ATOPICA IS CONTAGIOUS

Another misconception is that eczema is contagious. This myth can lead to stigma and social isolation for people with eczema. But no, it is not contagious at all. It is an inflammatory skin condition caused by a combination of genetic, immunological and environmental factors. It cannot be spread by physical contact, so there is no need to avoid someone with eczema for fear of catching it.

MYTH 3: DERMATITIS ATOPICA ONLY AFFECTS CHILDREN

It is common to think that atopic dermatitis only affects children, but this is also not true. It is true that the condition is more common in childhood and that many children can improve or even grow out of the condition as they get older, but a significant number of adults also suffer from the condition. Also, in some cases, symptoms may first appear in adulthood or simply persist from childhood.

MYTH 4: WATER AND LONG SHOWERS ARE GOOD FOR MOISTURISING THE SKIN

Although it may seem intuitive that water moisturises the skin, this is not always the case with dermatitis atopica. In fact, water alone can actually dry out the skin further if the right steps are not taken. It is important for people with eczema to shower with lukewarm water rather than hot water and to use specific, mild, fragrance-free soaps. After showering, it is important to gently dry the skin with a towel, preferably cotton, and apply a moisturiser.

MYTH 5: DERMATITIS ATOPICA IS LINKED TO FOOD ALLERGIES

The relationship between food allergies and eczema is complex and varies from person to person. In some cases, avoiding certain foods can help reduce flares, but this should be done under the supervision of a doctor or dietician to ensure that the diet remains balanced and nutritious.

MYTH 6: LIVING WITH ANIMALS AFFECTS DERMATITIS ATOPICA

This is not a general rule, although there may be some cases. Some patients may be allergic to animal hair, but this is not a direct cause of eczema. Living with pets should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. If a pet is suspected of aggravating symptoms, it is advisable to carry out allergy testing and follow the advice of an allergist or dermatologist.

In conclusion, atopic dermatitis is a complex condition with many myths and misconceptions. It is important that we base our knowledge on accurate, scientific information in order to provide the right support for people with the condition.

If you would like to learn more about what atopic dermatitis is, how to recognise it and what to do when it occurs, please read our previous articles: What is atopic dermatitis and how to recognise it and Diagnosing atopic dermatitis… What to do now?

See you in the next blog post as we continue to explore the complex world of atopic dermatitis.

See you soon!

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