Cutaneous xerosis, dry skin related to eczema

One of the main symptoms of eczema, and atopic eczema in particular, is dry skin. It is also known as xerosis.

Why is your skin dry when you have eczema?

Dry skin or xerosis is a major symptom of eczema, but it doesn't appear right away: usually between 1 and 2 years of age.

In the case of eczema, the skin no longer fulfills its role as a barrier and the water usually stored in the skin evaporates more easily. This results in dry, uncomfortable skin. Chronic eczema is a particular form of dry eczema, marked by thick plaques that may crack in places.

What situations promote xerosis?

Certain factors favor cutaneous xerosis: cold, wind, bath or pool water, certain soaps, etc.
To avoid severe xerosis, which is a source of discomfort, protect yourself from unfavorable weather conditions, avoid prolonged bathing, rinse well after swimming in the pool or the sea, use a soap suitable for atopic skin and hydrate your skin well.

What are the solutions to fight against xerosis?

Faced with xerosis, there is only one solution: hydrate the skin continuously! Emollients are rich in water, fats, humectants (which capture water) and occlusive agents (which prevent water evaporation). These different ingredients help to fight xerosis and temporarily restore the skin's barrier function. Adapt the emollient to the degree of cutaneous xerosis: use a lotion or cream in case of mild to moderate xerosis; favor balms in case of severe xerosis.
Emollients are applied daily to healthy skin, i.e. skin not affected by eczema plaques; as a follow-up to topical corticosteroids on areas affected by eczema but completely healed. Also of note is the proven value of medical devices in the form of a soothing repair cream to accelerate the treatment of plaques and limit their reappearance.