What are some home options and proven lifestyle changes that can aid in managing atopic dermatitis?

Home Options and Lifestyle Changes for Managing Atopic Dermatitis

Proper skin care with regular emollient use, avoidance of irritants, and appropriate bathing practices are the most effective home-based interventions for managing atopic dermatitis. 1

Skin Care Fundamentals

Bathing and Moisturizing

• Bathing regimen:
  • Regular bathing is beneficial for both cleansing and hydrating the skin
  • Use warm (not hot) water
  • Avoid soaps and detergents that remove natural skin lipids
  • Use dispersible creams as soap substitutes 1
  • Apply emollients immediately after bathing when skin is still damp to lock in moisture 1

Emollient Therapy

• Apply moisturizers liberally and frequently (at least twice daily)
• Emollients provide a surface lipid film that reduces water loss from the epidermis 1
• Therapeutic moisturizers specifically formulated for atopic dermatitis can:
  • Improve skin barrier function
  • Reduce itch and inflammation
  • Extend time between flares 2
• Allow patients to select the most suitable emollient for their needs 1

Avoiding Triggers and Irritants

Environmental Modifications

• Clothing considerations:
  • Wear cotton clothing next to skin
  • Avoid irritating fabrics like wool 1
  • Use liquid detergents rather than powder
  • Consider a second rinse cycle to remove residual detergents 1

Temperature and Climate Control

• Avoid extremes of temperature 1
• Maintain appropriate humidity levels in living spaces 1

Personal Habits

• Keep fingernails short to minimize skin damage from scratching 1
• Avoid known irritants such as:
  • Acids
  • Bleaches
  • Fragrances 1

Allergen Management

House Dust Mites

• While evidence for complete eradication is not strong, consider:
  • House dust mite mattress and pillow covers if there is a true dust mite allergy 1
  • Regular vacuuming with HEPA filters
  • Reducing indoor humidity 1

Food Triggers

• Food elimination should only be considered when:
  • There is a strong history suggestive of specific food allergy
  • Widespread active eczema is not responding to first-line treatments 1
  • A healthcare provider has recommended specific testing 1

Infection Prevention

Antibacterial Measures

• Consider dilute bleach baths for patients with recurrent infections 3
• Maintain good hand hygiene
• Avoid sharing personal items during active infections

Stress Management

Psychological Support

• Cognitive behavioral techniques such as relaxation therapy or self-hypnosis can be helpful 1
• Consider joining support groups like the National Eczema Society 1

Complementary Approaches

Dietary Supplements

• Evening primrose oil may be tried at appropriate doses:
  • 160-320 mg daily for children aged 1-12 years
  • 320-480 mg daily for adults
  • Continue for three months to evaluate effectiveness 1
• Consider vitamin D supplementation 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overuse of topical corticosteroids: Use the least potent preparation required and take breaks when possible 1
• Relying solely on antihistamines: Non-sedating antihistamines have little value for atopic dermatitis itch 1
• Ignoring secondary infections: Be alert for signs of bacterial or viral infections that require specific treatment 1
• Broad food elimination diets: Avoid extensive dietary restrictions based solely on positive IgE test results without clinical correlation 1

By implementing these home-based interventions consistently, many patients can achieve significant improvement in their atopic dermatitis symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of flares.