### How to Care for Your Skin with Atopic Dermatitis Living with atopic dermatitis (AD) can be challenging due to severe, itchy rashes and cracked skin. Here are some tips to help you manage your condition and prevent further damage: 1. **Avoid Scratching**: Scratching can worsen the condition and lead to infections. Try pressing or rubbing the area with your fingertips instead. Keep your nails short and consider covering inflamed areas to reduce the temptation to scratch. 2. **Moisturize Regularly**: Damaged skin loses moisture easily. Apply a thick emollient multiple times a day to protect and soothe your skin. Greasy ointments like mineral oil and petroleum jelly work well, but find a product that suits you. 3. **Oatmeal Baths**: Colloidal oatmeal can strengthen your skin barrier. Add finely ground oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak for 10-15 minutes. Pat your skin dry gently and apply moisturizer immediately after. 4. **Wet Wraps**: For severe flare-ups, dampen a clean gauze or cotton cloth with warm water and press it onto your skin. Cover with a dry layer and keep it in place for several hours or overnight. 5. **Allergy Medications**: Over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can provide short-term relief from intense itching. Non-drowsy options include cetirizine (Zyrtec) and fexofenadine (Allegra). 6. **Consult Your Doctor**: If your condition worsens, seek medical advice. Your doctor may prescribe treatments like steroid creams or antibiotics. ### Daily Skin Care Tips - **Use Mild Soap**: Avoid harsh, fragrant soaps that can strip natural oils from your skin. Opt for mild, fragrance-free options. - **Wear Comfortable Clothing**: Choose loose-fitting clothes made from smooth fabrics like cotton or silk to avoid irritation. - **Stay Cool**: Heat and sweating can trigger flare-ups. Use fans, air conditioning, and breathable clothing to stay cool. - **Use a Humidifier**: Dry air can worsen itching and flaking. A humidifier can help maintain moisture in your skin. - **Manage Stress**: Stress can aggravate AD. Find ways to cope with stress, such as talking to a counselor or joining a support group. - **Consider Probiotics**: Some studies suggest that probiotics can help control AD symptoms by boosting the immune system. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements.