Very dry skin, prone to atopy

People who suffer from very dry skin or atopic dermatitis are well aware of the recurring phases of itchy, flaky skin. The systematic medical skin care developed by Dr. Hauschka Med provides additional support for the skin.

8 min
Много суха кожа, склонна към атопия

Very dry, itchy, flaky skin

The warmth of the sun, a gentle breeze, a soft touch – feeling comfortable in one's skin is a wonderful sensation!

But those who suffer from very dry skin or atopic dermatitis cannot take this feeling for granted, as recurring phases of itching and flaky skin often interfere with enjoyment. Delicate children's skin can lose its natural balance particularly quickly, which can take away from the joy of the experience. As parents, we often wish we could do more to help.

At such times, we look for comprehensive, holistic solutions. We need new ideas and perspectives that can provide a significantly better quality of life.

Strengthening the body and skin

To provide a significantly better quality of life, it is important to consider the person's situation and condition as a whole, just as carefully as we consider the skin.

The skin protects our inner self, allowing us to physically experience the outside world without external influences affecting us too deeply. In people with dry skin and atopic dermatitis, however, this barrier function is weakened. External influences penetrate more easily beneath the skin, and the lack of lipids and proteins leads to increased moisture loss from within through the epidermis. This leaves the skin dried out, fragile, and rough. "Medical skincare can strengthen the skin's protective barrier and stimulate its own innate regulatory abilities," explains holistic dermatologist Dr. Sabine Neff.

Additional nourishment for the skin barrier

Medical skincare should take into account the fact that when the skin's acidic layer is deprived of fats and moisture, it cannot adequately maintain the elasticity of the outermost layer of skin, and a feeling of tightness appears. In acute phases, the skin begins to flake, and itching becomes stronger – then the skin needs special support.

Dr. Hauschka MED is a systematic medical skincare that has been tested on the people for whom it is intended. The conclusion: All Dr. Hauschka MED products are extremely effective and very well tolerated by the skin.

Systematic medical skincare for skin prone to atopic dermatitis

Special support for all phases and skin conditions

People with very dry skin and atopic dermatitis need professional, multifunctional daily skincare. The systematic medical skincare developed by Dr. Hauschka MED is tailored to the individual needs of the skin. It supports the skin in every phase – for a noticeably better quality of life from the very first application.

Care that meets the needs of my skin

Our systematic medical skincare takes into account the different skin conditions of people with very dry skin and a tendency towards atopic dermatitis. The strictly natural formulas of medicinal plant extracts and precious botanical oils are finely adapted to the changing needs of the skin.

Dr. Hauschka MED systematic medical skincare was developed in collaboration with dermatologists, beauticians, institutes, and universities – and in accordance with the latest scientific discoveries.

Our claims. Scientifically proven effective results from our products

How is the effectiveness of our skincare system scientifically proven?

Adults and children with very dry skin and skin prone to atopic dermatitis know what face and body products their own skin needs. Therefore, we conducted unusually complex clinical studies with people affected by such skin conditions and in collaboration with dermatologists.

In addition to effectiveness and skin tolerance, we checked whether our products are pleasant to use, whether they noticeably improve the skin and people's quality of life, and whether they fit into their daily lives. For us, the results had to be noticeable and understandable to the user – with every application.

Basic and intensive care with Ice Plant

Scientific tests confirm the effectiveness and tolerance of the basic and intensive skincare products from the Dr. Hauschka MED series. Clinical studies conducted by Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, prove the positive effect of daily use of Ice Plant Body Lotion and Ice Plant Intensive Cream on the skin condition of babies and young children with a predisposition to atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, the studies show a noticeable improvement in the quality of life for both affected children and their relatives.

The results: proven effectiveness and excellent tolerance

  • Provides excellent results in the care of atopic dermatitis
  • Consistently increases skin moisture levels
  • Provides long-lasting relief from itching
  • Has a positive effect on the skin barrier
  • Significantly improves skin condition
  • Very well tolerated by the skin

*Schario M. et al. "Children with dry skin and atopic predisposition: daily use of emollients in a participant-blinded, randomized, prospective study." Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2014; 27: 208–216.
Sawatzky S. et al. "Children with dry skin and atopic predisposition: outcome assessment with validated atopic dermatitis scales." Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2016; 29: 148–156.

Soothing Cream with Shrubby Cinquefoil

The effectiveness and tolerability of Dr. Hauschka MED Soothing Cream with Shrubby Cinquefoil have been proven. Independent studies**, conducted by the University Hospital Freiburg (Universitätsklinikum Freiburg), prove the effectiveness and excellent tolerability of the Soothing Cream with Shrubby Cinquefoil. Children and adults with very dry skin and atopic dermatitis use the cream twice daily – with measurable and visible results. Studies show that the Soothing Cream with Shrubby Cinquefoil effectively supports skin prone to inflammation in the period before an acute flare-up and reduces initial redness.

The results: extremely effective and very well tolerated

  • Provides excellent results in the care of skin prone to atopic dermatitis
  • Significantly reduces redness
  • Quickly relieves itching
  • Calms irritations and inflammations
  • Very well tolerated by the skin
  • Works particularly fast in children

**Hoffmann J., Wölfle U., Schempp C., Casetti F. Tannins from Potentilla officinalis exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in a UV erythema test and on atopic skin. JDDG 2016; 14(9): 917–923.

A holistic view of atopic dermatitis

A person's lifestyle, physical health, and psychological state are reflected in their skin – Dr. Hauschka MED talks to dermatologist Dr. Sabine Neff, a member of the Anthroposophic Dermatology Group.

How is atopic dermatitis classified?

Atopic dermatitis belongs to the same group of atopic diseases as hay fever and allergic asthma. It can be caused by changes in climate, certain foods and pollen, environmental factors, or stress.

The skin is seen as an external communicator of our inner self. What exactly does this mean?

As a barrier between our inner body and the outside world, the skin reflects our lifestyle, physical condition, and psychological state better than any other organ – and vice versa. People with dry skin prone to atopic dermatitis are often particularly susceptible to stress and react quickly with itching and eczema. Therefore, they should use medical skincare that strengthens the skin's protective barrier and promotes its natural regulatory forces.

What is the best way to care for dry and atopic dermatitis-prone skin?

Always choose skincare products targeted to your specific condition. Conscious strengthening care is important during asymptomatic phases. Regular application of skin cream relaxes the skin and can prevent new flare-ups. I then recommend richer creams when the skin becomes dry and flaky.

How can atopic dermatitis be treated in a way that looks at the person as a whole?

Medicinal plants play an important role here. During asymptomatic phases and to support at the onset of a flare-up, a composition of ice plant extract and precious oils can be very effective. Other effective medicinal plants include yellow gentian and chicory, as well as lemon and quince extracts. Certain minerals can also be taken in medicinal form, which have anti-allergic and itch-reducing effects, for example, calcium from oak bark, diatomite, or quartz. I also recommend the therapeutic effects of eurythmy therapy, yoga, autogenic training, climatotherapy, and healing spa visits.

What constitutes holistic treatment for atopic dermatitis?

Daily stress can have a negative effect on our skin condition. Therefore, we should avoid hurried, stressful, or unmanageable schedules and situations and implement stress management techniques when necessary. Sufficient sleep, regular breaks during mental work, enjoying nature, fresh air, and relaxing social time with others should be an integral part of our daily lives. Positive attention and relaxation can help strengthen our natural skin barrier.

How can we help babies and young children with atopic dermatitis?

In infants, flaky or reddened skin appears mainly on the face and extensor surfaces. Food allergies – for example, to milk, eggs, wheat, or soy – play a greater role in childhood than in adulthood. If possible, mothers should breastfeed their baby for the first six months. Loving attention and physical contact from parents, such as through a ritual of mindful body care or a gentle stroking massage, also have a strengthening and calming effect.

Living freely, even with atopic dermatitis. Tips for daily skincare from dermatologist Dr. Sabine Neff

Wear gentle fabrics

Light cotton or silk clothes are suitable for easily irritated skin. Remove all labels from clothing to prevent scratching. In severe atopic dermatitis, underwear containing silver helps relieve symptoms and has an antibacterial effect. Nightwear with integrated mittens will protect young children from scratching at night.

Embrace itching as a wake-up call

Creating an oil- and moisture-rich skin envelope can relieve itching. Apply a generous amount of rich cream to the affected area, cover with a dressing soaked in cold water, and then with a dry dressing. Try to make it a habit to apply cream instead of scratching. In this way, you will learn to interpret itching as a wake-up call that your skin needs soothing care. A gentler alternative to scratching with nails, especially for children, can be provided with a so-called "scratch block." This satisfies the urge to scratch without damaging the skin.

Keep a skin diary

A "skin diary" can help you discover how you and your skin react to different stimuli. Write down what you eat, what clothes you wear, what activities you do, and how you feel that day – paying special attention to your skin condition.

Approach life mindfully

Everyone has their own rhythm and limitations. What makes you feel good? Take time to read or be creative, engage in sports or exercise, and meet loved ones. Get plenty of fresh air and enough sleep. Too much time spent in front of the TV or working on a computer often leads to anxiety.

Give your skin the nutrients it needs

The skin thrives on a healthy diet that includes as many organic products as possible and is mindful of any allergies. Reduce your consumption of ready meals and sweet, processed foods. Also, remember to drink plenty of water and unsweetened teas.

Tips for parents and children

Children with atopic dermatitis react very positively to a calm and peaceful atmosphere. They also enjoy the affection that comes with regular application of body lotion or cream.