Neurodermatitis, also known as atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema, is a non-contagious, chronic inflammatory skin condition with multiple contributing factors. While it requires medical treatment, as a beauty therapist, you can offer valuable support to your clients through complementary cosmetic care.
Understanding the Skin Microbiome
The skin microbiome is a unique ecosystem of microorganisms that varies depending on the area of the body. These microorganisms inhabit not only the skin's surface but also sebaceous and sweat glands, creating a protective shield when balanced.
However, in neurodermatitis, this balance is disrupted, leading to a weakened skin barrier.
In neurodermatitis, the skin lacks essential fats, making it dry and more susceptible to external irritants. This compromised barrier allows moisture to escape, resulting in dry, itchy, and flaky skin prone to eczema and sores.
Atopic dermatitis is a condition that occurs in phases.
During acute flare-ups, it presents with redness, swelling, flaking, blistering, oozing, crusting, and severe itching. In its chronic form, the skin thickens and peels. In cases of atopic eczema, the skin barrier is compromised.
A weakened skin barrier can lead to dryness and allow pollutants and microorganisms to penetrate more easily. Dry skin becomes more sensitive and prone to irritation. In many cases, the use of appropriate skincare products can help stabilize the skin condition, protect the skin, and prolong symptom-free periods. This can reduce the need for cortisone creams and ointments.
The primary concern in eczema is skin dryness, making moisturizing and protective products ideal. This is where careful home care becomes crucial in managing the condition.
Skin Care for Neurodermatitis: A Tailored Approach
Skin care routines should be customized to the specific needs of neurodermatitis-prone skin. Even in the absence of active flare-ups, maintaining a consistent care regimen can help prolong periods of relief from dry, itchy, and flaky skin. But what should this routine involve?
Cleansing:
pH Balance is Key: Overly aggressive cleansing methods can worsen dry, atopic skin. Recommend gentle, pH-balanced, soap-free cleansers that maintain the skin’s natural pH and microbial balance.
Temperature Matters: Advise clients to avoid hot water and frequent washing, as these can further dry out the skin.
Gentle Cleansing Techniques:
Mild cleansing methods, such as short baths with low-irritant products, are preferable. Avoid long, hot compresses or steam treatments that can exacerbate dryness.
Basic Care:
Moisturizing is Essential: Basic care is fundamental for managing neurodermatitis. Opt for products that are rich in fat content for very dry skin, such as ointments. For less dry skin, creams or lotions with lower fat content are suitable.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Regenerative Ingredients: Panthenol, evening primrose oil, niacinamide, and bisabolol help repair damaged skin and soothe irritation.
Moisturizing Agents: Shea butter, glycerin, jojoba oil, and sunflower seed oil form a breathable protective layer, locking in moisture.
Barrier Repair: Ceramides are crucial for restoring the skin’s protective barrier.
Anti-inflammatory: Colloidal oats offer anti-inflammatory benefits due to their phytochemicals and proteins.
Facial Care Routine for Neurodermatitis
Minimalism is Key:
Minimalist skincare routines are particularly beneficial for neurodermatitis-prone skin. A simple regimen consisting of a pH-neutral moisturizer, a physical UV filter with a high mineral content, and a moisturizing treatment for dry or itchy areas is ideal.
Avoid overloading the skin with products, as this can strain the skin's natural microbiome.
Cleansing:
Proper cleansing is just as important as moisturizing. For daily facial cleansing, water is often sufficient. For makeup removal or more stubborn dirt, use soap-free, fragrance-free formulations that are pH-neutral (around 4.5 to 5.5). This ensures that the skin remains clean without disrupting its natural balance.
Acute Care for Dryness and Itching:
For areas of the skin that are particularly dry or itchy, consider supplementing the routine with acute care products. These can be applied directly to the affected areas and reapplied throughout the day as needed.
Tailor the routine to your client’s needs, avoiding products that contain skin-sealing ingredients, fragrances, or aggressive preservatives.
Ingredient Considerations:
Choose products with low irritant potential. Always check the ingredient list (INCI) to avoid potential irritants that could exacerbate neurodermatitis symptoms.
Cosmetic Treatments to Support Neurodermatitis Care
High Frequency Treatment:
Utilizes ozone to destroy bacteria, improve blood circulation, and stimulate cell metabolism, thereby strengthening the skin's acid mantle and disinfecting deeper skin layers.
Mesoporation:
This technique involves using anti-inflammatory ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin to promote regeneration, particularly beneficial for dry skin.
Fruit Acid Treatments:
Contrary to common fears, fruit acids can be beneficial for dry skin, enhancing resilience and radiance. Mild acids like lactic acid are ideal for sensitive, dry skin, offering gentle exfoliation and a healthy glow. However, always ensure that the client does not have any fruit or milk allergies before proceeding.
Conclusion
As a skin therapist, you have the opportunity to play a supportive role in managing neurodermatitis through tailored cosmetic treatments and care routines. Collaborating with dermatologists or homeopaths can also provide a holistic approach to long-term care for your clients.
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Beauty Med sensitive skin products - check here .
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