Neurodermatitis in Winter

With the cold days begins for many the anticipation of Christmas. Neurodermatitis sufferers think differently. They are anxious before the first episode, because wintertime is neurodermatitis season. This phenomenon has been known for a long time. Today dermatologists also understand why.
Hippocrates already knew that weather and climate influence health. Today, we also understand the reasons to some extent. For example in the case of neurodermatitis. Due to an underfunction of the sebaceous and sweat glands, the skin of a neurodermatitis sufferer is always subject to the risk of excessive dryness. In the wintertime, this risk increases additionally, because the cold and dry air causes the skin to release more moisture into its environment. During this time, sufferers must pay particular attention to their skin‘s water and oil film.

The right care

Regular application of cream to the entire skin is important. Additives such as urea or D-panthenol can improve the basic care. And since even clear water can disrupt the skin’s protective film, moisturizing bath additives and shower lotions are useful for many patients. Many neurodermatitis sufferers know the burden of the German winter and flee to the south for as long as possible. There they simply feel more comfortable in their skin. This is because the skin has to release less moisture into the environment.

A similar positive effect can be observed when moving to a stimulating climate, for example to the North Sea or the high mountains. This is despite the fact that the humidity in these areas is relatively low and the skin dries out more. A contradiction? Today, medicine suspects that the stimulating climate makes it easier to remove old skin cells and promotes blood circulation and the release of heat from the skin. The skin relief levels out, the skin becomes smoother, and less inflammation occurs.

Finally without cortisone?

If a neurodermatitis flare-up does occur, treatment with cortisone was usually the last resort. For a few years, however, there has been an alternative: cortisone-free creams, so-called calcineurin inhibitors, such as a cream with the active ingredient pimecrolimus. It also promises a rapid effect against itching and eczema. In addition, it is the first and only drug that promises to prolong the symptom-free period if applied in time.