What triggers atopic dermatitis?

How does atopic dermatitis manifest?

Atopic dermatitis is not linked to a single isolated cause: it results from a complex imbalance of the cutaneous and immune system.

It is important to know that our epidermis is protected by 4 interconnected barriers, barriers that become fragile when atopic dermatitis appears. The skin then more easily lets through irritating substances, allergens or microbes. The consequences? More inflammation, itching, and even inflammatory eczema lesions.

It should be noted that the diagnosis is based on a clinical examination, then completed by an anamnesis (a medical interview) to analyze:

• each symptom;

• the age of onset;

• the frequency of flare-ups;

• the existence of a potential family history.

Genetic causes

Do you have a family history of eczema, asthma or allergies? Because yes, among the primary causes of atopic dermatitis, we find the genetic factor. Up to 70% of patients with atopic dermatitis have a first-degree relative (father, mother, brother, sister) who is or has been affected.

Certain genetic mutations, particularly on the FLG gene (filaggrin), also alter the production of essential proteins for the skin barrier. Without these proteins, the skin becomes more permeable to allergens and irritating agents.

Environmental factors

Factors related to our modern lifestyle have been identified as causes of atopic dermatitis:

• Air pollution and water quality: the increase in atmospheric pollution as well as changes in water composition (harder, more limy or more chlorinated) alter skin pH and unbalance the skin microbiome.

• Air conditioning and dry air: air conditioning dries out the ambient air. For atopic skin, already lacking hydration, this can quickly become a trigger for a crisis.

• Excessive hygiene: with the pandemic, we all adopted good sanitary habits, sometimes perhaps a little too much. Repeated washing and hydro-alcoholic gels can (in the long run) damage the hydrolipidic film.

The role of stress

Another identified cause: emotional or psychological stress! Even if it is not the cause of the disease, it can worsen atopic dermatitis flare-ups. Indeed, in a stressful situation, the body reacts: the body releases substances (notably inflammatory cytokines) that activate the immune system, sometimes excessively.

The skin becomes more reactive, itching intensifies and inflammatory lesions worsen. This mechanism then takes the form of a vicious circle that is difficult to break: stress increases symptoms → you scratch → scratching aggravates inflammation → which generates even more stress.

Most frequently asked questions:

Do showers cause eczema or atopic dermatitis?

Showering itself does not cause atopic dermatitis. However, showers that are too frequent, too hot or with aggressive washing products can weaken your skin.

What foods should be avoided in case of atopic dermatitis?

There are no forbidden foods in themselves. If you suspect a food is the cause of your atopic dermatitis, an allergological assessment is necessary.

What moisturizer can I use?

We recommend our Sensitélial.AD range, designed for atopic skin. Our products act for the first time on the 4 protective barriers of the skin thanks to an innovative active ingredient: [Pro-Vitamin D].

We recommend the Sensitélial AD range.