Fast Relief for Acute Eczema Flares

Neurodermatitis, also known as atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that typically occurs in flare-ups. This means that phases of relatively symptom-free skin alternate with acute inflammation. Acute flare-ups, in particular, can be very distressing for those affected. How do you recognize a neurodermatitis flare-up, what are the causes, and how can it be treated quickly? We have summarized the answers for you in this blog post:

What is a neurodermatitis flare-up?

A neurodermatitis flare-up is a phase in which symptoms significantly worsen. Typical characteristics of an acute inflammatory stage include:

• intense skin redness and swelling
• weeping skin areas, sometimes blistering
• severe, persistent itching
• burning or pain in the affected skin areas

What triggers an acute neurodermatitis flare-up?

Acute flare-ups are often triggered by so-called trigger factors, which vary from person to person. Find out here which typical triggers can promote an acute flare-up.  

How long does an acute neurodermatitis flare-up last?

The duration of a neurodermatitis flare-up is highly individual. In mild cases, symptoms may subside after a few days, while more severe flare-ups can last weeks or even months. Early and consistent treatment and continuous skin care are crucial to alleviate symptoms.

Risk of superinfections

A common companion of severe flare-ups is the so-called superinfection, in which damaged, thin skin areas and wounds become infected by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Such infections can significantly worsen symptoms and often require special treatments.

• Bacterial infections: Open eczema areas can be colonized by Staphylococcus aureus. Typical signs are yellow weeping, yellowish crust formation, and pain in the affected areas.

• Viral infections: Herpes viruses or Molluscum contagiosum (water warts) can also penetrate through the damaged skin. Herpes usually manifests as small blisters, sometimes even fever. Water warts, on the other hand, typically appear as round, skin-colored or pink nodules.

• Fungal infections: Fungi such as Trichophyton rubrum can also settle in inflamed skin areas. The infestation is characterized by an altered skin structure, blisters, or weeping areas.

If you notice the first signs of a superinfection, you should consult a doctor immediately. In these cases, targeted therapy with antibiotics, antiviral drugs, or antifungals is usually necessary.

Which cream for acute neurodermatitis?

Proper care is essential to alleviate the symptoms of an acute flare-up!

Use a moisturizing base cream without fragrances that has been specially developed for basic care for neurodermatitis. During a flare-up, application up to three times a day can help reduce itching and strengthen the skin barrier. For severe itching or burning skin, cooling compresses can also be soothing.

Cool compresses are very effective against itching and inflammation during neurodermatitis flare-ups because they soothe the skin and reduce the urge to scratch. To do this, you apply a very rich cream (preferably a balm) to the skin and then wrap a damp compress around it to acutely nourish the skin and lock in moisture. The cooling effect also relieves itching. This method is also known as wet-wrap therapy.

For weeping, moist wounds and slightly inflamed skin areas, a fragrance-free wound cream can help, such as our med wound cream. It supports wound healing for weeping, moist and itchy areas and helps with zinc in the healing of inflammations.

Important: If the condition does not improve over a longer period, the use of corticosteroid-containing or other immunosuppressive ointments may be advisable in consultation with a doctor to quickly reduce the inflammation.

How can I prevent neurodermatitis flare-ups?  

Consistent basic care: Regular skin care (even in flare-free phases) with rich, moisturizing ingredients strengthens the skin barrier and reduces susceptibility to flare-ups.

Avoid triggers: Identify your personal triggers and minimize contact. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises can help reduce stress.

Protection from environmental influences: Especially in winter, your skin needs additional protection from cold, wind, and dry heating air. Therefore, especially in winter, use rich, nourishing products to keep the skin supple.

Support from within: Medical studies show that there is a connection between our gut and the skin. Especially with neurodermatitis, it can help to strengthen the gut from within with the help of probiotics to improve the skin and neurodermatitis symptoms.