Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting millions worldwide. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin and can significantly burden those who suffer from it. Atopic dermatitis is a complex disease with several immune pathways involved. Signals from barrier disruption, allergens, and microbial colonization are integrated and transmitted to diverse immune cell types, which initiate and maintain the disease. Fortunately, recent scientific research has shed light on effective treatments for atopic dermatitis, focusing on the immune modulation and replenishment of skin lipids.
It is thought that a deficiency in specific lipids in the skin barrier, specifically ceramides, is a contributing factor to the development of atopic dermatitis. This has led to the development of topical treatments that aim to restore the lipid barrier and reduce inflammation. One such treatment is the use of emollients and moisturizers. These products aim to improve the skin’s hydration levels and reduce inflammation.
In addition, research has shown that using a daily moisturizer can improve the clinical severity of atopic dermatitis and lessen the need for prescription medications. Therefore, when choosing a moisturizer, it is crucial to look for products containing ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, key skin barrier components.
In addition to emollients and moisturizers, topical corticosteroids are often used to treat atopic dermatitis. These medications work by reducing inflammation in the skin. However, long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to skin thinning and other side effects, so they should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Another promising treatment for atopic dermatitis is topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs). TCIs, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, are immunomodulatory agents that can reduce inflammation in the skin. They are instrumental in areas where corticosteroids, such as the face and groin, cannot be used. However, TCIs should also only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Recent research has also focused on using physiological lipid mixtures to restore the skin barrier in atopic dermatitis. These mixtures aim to mimic the natural lipids found in healthy skin and have been shown to improve skin barrier function and reduce inflammation in atopic dermatitis. For example, SELECT.ONE managed to treat atopic dermatitis by immune modulation and replenishment of skin lipids. In addition, one study found that a lipid mixture containing ceramides, cholesterol, and free fatty acids improved skin barrier function and reduced clinical severity in atopic dermatitis patients.
Immunomodulation plays a crucial role in treating atopic dermatitis, characterized by a dysregulated immune response to environmental triggers, such as allergens and microbial colonization, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Therefore, targeting the immune response is critical to atopic dermatitis treatment.
Immunomodulatory ingredients deployed by SELECT.ONE work by inhibiting the immune response, specifically by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines that contribute to the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. As a result, effectively reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of eczema, particularly in areas where topical corticosteroids cannot be used, such as the face and groin.
In conclusion, atopic dermatitis can be challenging to manage, but recent scientific research has provided promising treatments. Emollients and moisturizers containing ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids can improve skin hydration and reduce inflammation. Topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors can also be effective in reducing inflammation. Finally, physiological lipid mixtures promise to restore the skin barrier in atopic dermatitis. It is essential to work with a healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan tailored to each patient’s individual needs.