Facial Atopic Dermatitis The causes, symptoms and how best to calm and care for skin

Facial Atopic Dermatitis is particularly distressful because it is so visible. Whilst non-contagious, it can cause social issues for children and adults alike alongside low self-esteem. It is known to have a considerable impact on quality of life for both sufferers and their families.
Atopic Dermatitis is not the only kind of Dermatitis that can affect you or your child on the face. Other varieties include:

Seborrheic Dermatitis: symptoms are similar, but skin is rarely itchy. Find out more in Seborroeic Dermatitis.
Contact Dermatitis: an allergic reaction to something your face comes into contact with such as make-up (though make-up may also trigger symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis on the face).
Light sensitive Dermatitis: when facial skin reacts to the sun. Sunlight can also be a trigger for Atopic Dermatitis, while other sufferers find that it can ease symptoms. Read more in Understanding Atopic Dermatitis.

Identifying any potential triggers and taking steps to avoid or limit them is a key step to reducing the number of flare-ups. You can find out how in Understanding Atopic Dermatitis
Regular moisturisation
The primary aim when caring for atopic facial skin on a daily basis is to prolong the non-acute phase and regular moisturisation is crucial. Look out for moisturisers (also known as emollients) that contain proven ingredients such as:

Licochalcone A: soothes skin and reduces redness
Ceramides: strengthen skin’s barrier function
Omega-3 and Omega-6: soothe and nourish skin while replenishing its protective barrier.

These are the key ingredients in Eucerin AtoControl Face Care Cream which is proven to given atopic facial skin the daily care it needs.

Specific care during flare-ups
Eucerin AtoControl Face Care Cream can also be used during a flare-up but you may find your face needs additional care to relieve itching and soothe redness and irritation. Eucerin AtoControl Acute Care Cream (with anti-bacterial Decanediol and cooling Menthoxypropandiol) has been specially formulated to give skin the care and comfort it needs during flare-ups.

Both products can be used alongside medical treatments which often help to calm severe symptoms. Find out more about them in Identifying and managing flare-ups.

Eczema face and Eucerin AtoControl Face Care Cream — Eucerin AtoControl Face Care Cream keeps atopic skin moisturised

Gentle cleansing
Harsh cleansers can irritate facial skin, so choose a mild facial cleanser such as Eucerin UltraSENSITIVE Cleansing Lotion. If you like to rinse your cleanser off with water, make sure it isn’t too hot as hot water can cause further dryness.

Sun protection
Some people find that a little bit of sun helps with their symptoms, others find it exacerbates them. Either way, make sure you give skin the protection it needs using products that are proven to be suitable for atopic facial skin. You can read more about the importance of sun protection in skin and the sun.

Make-up
Choose products that are fragrance-free and, ideally, that have been proven to be suitable for sensitive skin. Be sure to remove your make-up fully before you go to bed.
You can find out more about skincare for atopic skin in how to care for young atopic skin and how to care for adult atopic skin.