Avoiding irritants related to atopic dermatitis

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Anything that might irritate your skin could cause the atopic dermatitis rash to become worse. Try to avoid:

Soaps that dry the skin. Use soaps such as Aveeno, Dove, Basis, or Neutrogena. Use soap regularly only on the underarms, groin, and feet and rinse immediately afterward.
Perfumes.
Scratchy clothing or bedding, such as wool and some acrylics. Cottons and some cotton blends may be more comfortable.
Places with low humidity.
Sunburn.
Sudden changes of temperature, such as entering a warm room or leaving a warm shower into colder air.
Excessive sweating. Choose clothing and bedding fabrics that air can flow through easily. This will keep sweat from accumulating on your skin and irritating it. Avoid exercising in the heat of the day or consider swimming. Swimming reduces the amount of sweat on the skin. Be sure to wash and moisturize immediately after pool use, as the bromine and chlorine used in swimming pools can be irritating.
Damp hands or feet.
Emotional stress.

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Author	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Last Updated	May 5, 2008

Last updated:	May 05, 2008
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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