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Writer's pictureDr. Preethi Nagaraj

Do' s and Dont's in atopic eczema

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic disorder of the skin characterized by itchy, sensitive, dry skin and eczematous patches with remissions and relapses.


It has 3 stages- 

Infantile – reddish rashes on the cheeks, trunk and legs. Baby may be irritable due to intense itching sensation.

Childhood- Itching and eczematous patches become localized to inner aspects  of elbows and knees

Adult – Generalized itching, dry and sensitive skin


Here are a few Do’ s and Don’t’ s to be followed if one has atopic dermatitis.


1. Apply a moisturizer regularly 2-3 times a day

2. Follow the 3-minute rule – apply the moisturizer within 3 minutes after bath/ shower.

3. Use minimal amount of a soap free cleanser for bathing.

4. Have a bath using lukewarm water. Avoid hot water/ steam and sauna as it can strip the oils off your skin.

5. Do not rub/ scrub the skin vigorously.

6. Avoid cosmetics with fragrances. Consult your dermatologist prior to starting new creams/ lotions.

7. Use soft, cotton clothes and select soft cotton blankets. Avoid lace/ wool.

8. Soy, nuts, cow’s milk and eggs are common foods known to trigger relapses. Keep a food diary when introducing solid foods to your baby.

9. Visit your dermatologist at the earliest when you notice flare/ new rashes. Itching and constant rubbing could make the rashes worse.

10 . Avoid excessive exposure to air conditioner. Dry air could worsen the itch.


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