Neurodermatitis, also known as atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema, is one of the most common chronic, inflammatory skin diseases in Germany. Those affected, often including babies and children, suffer from dry, irritated skin, unpleasant itching and inflammation.
While treatment with the active ingredient cortisone is still often used in acute attacks, more and more people are looking for gentle alternatives without side effects. Find out here why it can make sense to avoid creams containing cortisone and which active ingredients are possible as alternatives.
What is cortisone?
Cortisone is a drug that belongs to the group of glucocorticoids. It is a synthetic form of the body's own hormone cortisol, which is produced in the adrenal cortex. Cortisol, in turn, plays a crucial role in regulating stress reactions, inflammation and metabolism in the body.
Cortisone acts in different areas of the body:
- Anti-inflammatory: It reduces the activity of the immune system and thereby relieves inflammation and swelling.
- Antipruritic: It soothes the skin and relieves symptoms such as itching, e.g. in neurodermatitis or eczema.
- Immunosuppressive: Cortisone suppresses excessive immune reactions that occur in allergies or autoimmune diseases.
Cortisone can be used internally as tablets or injections , or externally in the form of ointments, creams and lotions applied directly to the skin. The effect varies depending on the amount, dosage form and area of application.
Why avoid cortisone?
Creams containing cortisone have a strong anti-inflammatory effect and can quickly soothe irritated skin during acute attacks - for example as part of neurodermatitis therapy. However, long-term use or a permanent overdose carries some risks:
- skin thinning
- Dilation of small skin vessels and visible dilation of capillaries
- strengthening hair growth
- Acne-like changes in the skin
- pigmentation disorders, redness, stretch marks
For these reasons, creams containing cortisone are nowadays only used for a limited period of time during acute attacks or as part of interval therapy for neurodermatitis.
Is there a gentle alternative to cortisone?
Yes, there are various approaches to treating skin diseases such as neurodermatitis, eczema or other inflammatory conditions that complement or sometimes even represent a complete alternative to cortisone. These include:
- therapy with UV light
- administration of antihistamines
- use of probiotic care products
- Taking natural alternatives such as black cumin oil or chamomile
- Use of skin care products without cortisone
Which treatment is right for you ultimately depends on the severity of the symptoms and the individual needs of the affected skin. In acute cases, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
What characterizes a neurodermatitis cream without cortisone?
A neurodermatitis cream without cortisone is characterized by gentle, skin-friendly ingredients that are specifically tailored to the needs of sensitive and irritated skin. In contrast to products containing cortisone, which have a particularly rapid anti-inflammatory effect, these creams aim to provide long-term care, strengthening and regeneration of the skin . The most popular ingredients include urea, panthenol, evening primrose oil, omega-6 fatty acids, aloe vera and zinc oxide.
In addition, there is no known risk of side effects such as thinning of the skin or pigmentation disorders when used regularly. They are also suitable for long-term and/or daily basic care - both in acute phases and for prevention in flare-up-free intervals.
The feedback from our customers shows :
99% of children affected by atopic dermatitis show an improvement in their skin condition within the first few weeks of regular use of our med basic cream. 81% of children affected experience fewer bouts of atopic dermatitis . 81% of those surveyed with atopic dermatitis can partially or even completely avoid using cortisone-containing or other immunosuppressive creams in the treatment of atopic dermatitis by using our med basic cream.
Benefits of neurodermatitis creams without cortisone
Regular use of a cortisone-free cream offers many advantages:
Long-term care: In contrast to cortisone creams, these products can be used long-term and/or daily without any concerns.
No side effects: Natural ingredients are gentle on the skin and have no known negative long-term effects.
Strengthening the skin barrier: Many creams promote the regeneration of damaged skin and make it more resistant to irritants
Suitable for sensitive skin: Young skin of babies and children is particularly sensitive to cortisone, which is why gentle alternatives should be preferred. Creams without cortisone are also often the better alternative for pregnant women.
OUR EXPERT
Dr. med Michaela Hagemann I boep founder, doctor & mother of three
