The basic therapy involves skin care that should be carried out daily for children with atopic dermatitis. The resulting protection for the skin barrier is a cornerstone in the therapy of atopic dermatitis and aims to prevent deterioration and flare-ups.

1 – The Role of the Skin Barrier in Atopic Dermatitis

The skin barrier is impaired in children and adults with atopic dermatitis. This impairment leads to an increased transepidermal water loss, meaning that the skin is unable to retain sufficient moisture. At the same time, irritating substances and allergens can penetrate the skin more easily, leading to inflammation and itching. The guideline for Atopic Dermatitis emphasises that the basic therapy aims to stabilise the impaired skin barrier by increasing the moisture content of the skin and restoring the lipid layer. A stable skin barrier is essential to prevent flare-ups and maintain skin health in the long term.

2 – Basic Therapy as the Foundation of Treatment

The basic therapy is the first and most important measure in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. It should be applied continuously, regardless of whether acute flare-ups are currently present or not. It helps to strengthen the skin barrier, keep the skin supple, and reduce the risk of inflammation and itching.

The basic therapy should be individually adapted to the current condition of the patient's skin. For very dry skin, fatty ointments are better suited, while lighter creams or lotions should be used for less severely affected skin. It is important that the care products are free from irritating or allergenic ingredients such as fragrances or preservatives.

3 – Prevention of Inflammation and Flare-ups

A significant advantage of basic therapy is the prevention of atopic dermatitis flare-ups. According to the guideline for Atopic Dermatitis, a consistent and continuous basic therapy can help reduce the frequency and intensity of flare-ups. A well-maintained skin barrier is less susceptible to external irritants and allergenic substances that are often triggers for inflammation. It therefore has a firm place in secondary and tertiary prevention, improves quality of life, and can thus reduce the need for anti-inflammatory medications, such as topical corticosteroids.

4 – Long-term Improvement Thanks to Basic Therapy

The continuous basic therapy for atopic dermatitis has a positive impact on the skin microbiome. It helps to stabilise the impaired skin barrier and restore the balance of microorganisms on the skin. An intact skin barrier and regular moisture supply prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, which are often associated with atopic dermatitis flare-ups. This reduces the risk of inflammation and promotes skin health in the long term.