Atopic dermatitis vs. psoriasis

The skin barrier is impaired in atopic dermatitis. The intact, healthy skin barrier protects us from harmful substances penetrating the skin, but it also protects us from releasing too much moisture into the environment. Conversely, an impaired skin barrier leads to us releasing more moisture, for example. The skin becomes drier as a result. For this reason, neurodermatitis sufferers always tend to have dry skin. Even in the relapse-free interval, when there is no eczema, the skin of neurodermatitis sufferers is dry and should be cared for. An acute flare-up occurs when the immune system reacts hypersensitively to a triggering factor. Inflammatory skin changes occur, accompanied by severe itching.

In the case of psoriasis, there is no disruption to the skin barrier. The skin is not generally prone to dryness and can be completely asymptomatic during the relapse-free interval. An acute flare-up occurs when the immune system reacts to a triggering factor as if there were an injury. This results in an inflammatory reaction combined with an enormous increase in the formation of new skin cells. These excess skin cells form the typical plaques on the inflamed red skin areas.

While the focus of skin care for atopic dermatitis is on repairing the skin barrier, in the case of psoriasis the focus is on calming the underlying inflammation and gently removing the plaques. For both skin conditions, intensive lipid and moisture supply to the skin is also an important goal of skin care.

Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are two of the most common chronic skin diseases. Although they have similar symptoms such as inflamed, scaly and itchy skin, they are very different clinical pictures that can be attributed to different causes and mechanisms. Atopic dermatitis mainly begins in childhood, while psoriasis often occurs in adulthood. However, both conditions can have a significant impact on quality of life and require specific treatment and care.

The causes of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are not yet fully understood, but it is known that both genetic and environmental factors play a role. Atopic dermatitis is a hypersensitivity of the immune system that leads to a disturbed skin barrier. Triggers can include allergens, stress or climatic conditions. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy skin cells, leading to accelerated cell production. Genetic factors play a major role, and triggers can include infections, skin injuries, stress, certain medications and lifestyle factors such as alcohol and tobacco consumption.

Atopic dermatitis manifests itself as dry, red and itchy patches of skin, which often appear in the hollows of the knees, elbows and face. The skin is often rough and scaly, and scratching can lead to thickening and infection.

Psoriasis is characterized by thick, red patches of skin covered with silvery scales. These so-called plaques often appear on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. The skin can become painful and cracked, and in severe cases the nails and joints can also be affected.

Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis are two chronic skin conditions that require intensive care and specific treatment strategies. Despite similar symptoms such as inflamed, dry and itchy patches of skin, their care needs differ. Adapted skin care can help to alleviate symptoms, strengthen the skin barrier and improve overall well-being.

Skin care for psoriasis

With psoriasis, the skin tends to become extremely dry and flaky. Regular moisturizing care is therefore essential. Suitable products contain ingredients such as urea, glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which help to moisturize the skin. It is also important to identify and avoid individual triggers, as factors such as stress, alcohol and certain medications can trigger flare-ups. For medical skin care, ointments and creams containing salicylic acid, coal tar or dithranol are often used to loosen the scales and soothe the skin. Corticosteroids and vitamin D analogs are also common treatment options. When cleansing the skin, pH-neutral cleansers should be used and hot water should be avoided so as not to dry out the skin further.
 

Most creams and lotions for the treatment of psoriasis contain cortisone. Our foam cream, on the other hand, provides the skin with pure biomimetic (skin-related) lipids, glycerine and niacinamides. This combination moisturizes the skin and gently and painlessly removes scales and plaques. The foam is completely non-irritating to apply and is therefore particularly suitable for sensitive skin.

Skin care products for atopic dermatitis

People with atopic dermatitis often have an impaired skin barrier, which is why regular moisturizing is particularly important. Rich moisturizers and emollients with ingredients such as ceramides, linoleic acid and evening primrose oil can strengthen the skin barrier. It is advisable to use hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products, as allergens and irritating substances such as perfumes, colorants and preservatives should be avoided. Products with polidocanol or menthol as well as cooling gels can be used to relieve itching. Topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus are often used to control inflammation.

Allpresan Derma med medical skin care for atopic dermatitis includes products containing biomimetic lipids, panthenol and beard lichen extract. These ingredients have been proven to repair the skin barrier and thus protect against further dehydration. At the same time, they provide the skin with intensive lipids and moisture, which helps to alleviate symptoms and promote skin health.

Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis can significantly impair quality of life. The constant itching and visible skin changes can lead to sleep disorders, stress and social isolation. It is important to develop strategies to deal with these challenges. These include learning relaxation techniques, participating in self-help groups and maintaining a regular care routine.

The correct diagnosis and individually tailored treatment are crucial for dealing with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Both conditions require continuous care and attention. With the right strategy, sufferers can effectively alleviate their symptoms and improve their quality of life.