Dealing with the symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis can be tough, especially in conditions that add to the dryness of your itchy, patchy, and flared-up skin. If you have this condition or know someone who does, you must be aware of the importance of moisture and hydration when managing atopic dermatitis.
While moisturising, medication, and gentle cleansing hold their own special place, there is another tool that can help you. “Humidifiers help relieve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis and even prevent further breakouts,” shared Dr Priti Mahire, BAMS, Clinical Cosmetologist and Trichologist, Skinshine Skin Clinic, Kalyan.
Is Humidifier Good For Atopic Dermatitis
The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) shared that atopic dermatitis is the most common form of Eczema, which refers to a group of conditions that cause skin inflammation. The AAD stated that atopic dermatitis can cause the skin to become excessively dry, and recommended to keep the skin moisturised and hydrated to ‘relieve discomfort and reduce flare-ups.’
“This skin condition needs a large quantity of moisturiser to be put on generously. Atopic dermatitis gets worse in a dry environment like during winter. If a person with atopic dermatitis is continuously in a dry environment, it eventually leads to a further reduction of the skin’s moisture. A humidifier in this case helps,” said Dr Mahire.
She added, “Humidifiers increase the moisture level of the surroundings by putting moisture back in the air thereby creating a comfortable and ideally humid environment, making the skin less dry.”
Her recommendations have been corroborated by numerous studies including one published in the Korean Journal of Dermatology. The study revealed that humidifiers generate nano-sized water particles, which produced a positive effect on skin hydration and skin barrier function.
Also Read: Here's Everything You Need To Know About Atopic Dermatitis By A Dermatolgist
Consider This Before Choosing A Humidifier
“ The benefits of a humidifier vary from person to person and place to place. Some experience aggravated symptoms in humid environments as a result of increased sweat,” said Dr Mahire.
To ensure that excessive humidity doesn’t exacerbate your atopic dermatitis symptoms, keep your living and work spaces at 30-60% humidity. You can maintain this by investing in a humidifier that provides readings of the air quality and humidity level of your surroundings.
The National Eczema Association also warned that excessive humidity can be problematic for atopic dermatitis management. In addition to excessive sweating, humidity also fosters mould and bacteria, which further trigger flare-ups.
Also Read: Skin Rash Or Eczema? Expert Helps You Find Out The Difference
Concluding her suggestions, Dr Mahire said that when you're choosing a humidifier, always opt for a cool mist rather than a hot mist. She underscored that investing in a humidifier is just one spoke of the wheel. A proper skin care routine, that is customised to your skin type and inflammatory triggers is still very much necessary.