Dear KAMI skincare friends,
Winter is the time when people enjoy splashing around in warm water, whether in the tub or a warm pool after skiing, sledding, or a walk. This is a pleasure that people with skin problems cannot indulge in without concern, as people are often warned against washing too frequently when suffering from atopic dermatitis and other skin problems. But we can reassure you: according to a meta-analysis of 13 controlled studies, daily bathing and showering does not affect atopic dermatitis if certain rules are followed.
Today, we've put together some tips for you on how you can still enjoy water and always feel fresh and clean. All of our tips also apply to small children, although their skin is naturally even more sensitive and thinner.
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, sensitive skin. The skin barrier is compromised, which can lead to inflammation, redness, and itching. It's especially important to choose a gentle and nourishing skincare routine when it comes to personal care to avoid further stressing the skin.
Our 10 tips based on current studies
1. Avoid hot water
Hot water can further damage the skin barrier by dissolving the skin's natural lipids and drying it out. Studies show that baths and showers that are too hot can weaken the skin barrier and exacerbate inflammatory processes in skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. Ideally, the water temperature when bathing or showering should not exceed 36–37 °C to avoid unnecessary stress on the skin.
2. Short shower and bath times
Long baths or extended showers can also dry out the skin and damage its protective barrier. Studies, including a 2022 publication in the Journal of Dermatological Science, have shown that prolonged water contact causes skin to lose moisture. This can worsen the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. To avoid this, you should Limit shower or bath time to 5–10 minutes .
3. Avoid soaps and surfactants
Traditional soaps and many cleansers contain harsh surfactants (detergents) that dry out the skin and disrupt its pH balance. A study in the "Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology" (2021) suggests that soaps destroy the skin's natural acid mantle and make it more susceptible to inflammation and irritation. Instead, you should use mild, use skin-neutral cleaning products, that do not irritate the skin.
Recommendation : The pH-neutral KAMI Cleansing Fluid is an excellent choice because it is free of harsh surfactants. It contains moisturizing ingredients such as peach kernel oil, which gently nourishes the skin and retains its moisture. Furthermore, the cleanser supports the regeneration of the skin barrier.
4. Use balneotherapeutic agents
Balneotherapeutic products can help in the treatment of skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. Products have anti-inflammatory effects and promote skin healing . A medical review in the "International Journal of Dermatology" (2020) explains that certain herbal ingredients, such as copaiba balm, have anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing effects and can thus support the healing process in atopic dermatitis. Copaiba balm promotes skin regeneration, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier.
Recommendation : KAMI Wash Fluid contains copaiba balsam, known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. This natural ingredient is a gentle way to care for the skin while reducing irritation.
5. Gentle cleaning instead of abrasion
Avoid wash mitts or exfoliating products, as these can further irritate sensitive skin. A study in the British Journal of Dermatology (2023) confirmed that mechanical cleansing methods can often lead to skin injuries and worsen symptoms in atopic dermatitis. It is sufficient to cleanse the skin with your hands and pat it gently to protect the natural skin barrier.
6. Moisturizing directly after bathing or showering
After bathing or showering, the skin is particularly receptive to moisture. Studies have shown that immediate moisturizing after cleansing strengthens the skin barrier and prevents dry skin conditions. A study published in the "Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology" (2022) found that moisturizers containing lipids and ceramides support the regeneration of the skin barrier and reduce inflammatory processes.
Recommendation : After showering, use a rich cream or lotion that intensively moisturizes the skin and contains soothing ingredients like shea butter or aloe vera. With KAMI skincare, you have three options:
- The KAMI SOS skin care oil can be added directly to the bath; just 1-2 droppers are enough. The oil spreads easily through the bathwater and onto the skin. Ideal for children who don't like to be rubbed with lotion!
- The KAMI SOS balm contains shea butter, which is very effective in treating atopic dermatitis. Apply to dry areas immediately after bathing, while the skin is still well moisturized.
- The KAMI 2-Phase Spray contains our highly effective KAMI oil blend as well as pure organic aloe vera gel. It intensively moisturizes, soothes the skin, and is quick and easy to spray on.
7. Pay attention to the pH value
The pH of the skin is normally slightly acidic (around 5.5). This acidic environment protects against harmful microorganisms and helps maintain the skin barrier. Products that disrupt the skin's pH—such as overly alkaline soaps—make the skin more susceptible to irritation and infection. A study in the "Dermatitis Journal" (2021) has shown that Use of pH-neutral care products leads to better skin regeneration in cases of neurodermatitis.
Recommended : Choose cleansers and care products with a pH that matches your skin's pH, around 5.5. Like our KAMI Cleansing Fluid.
8. Avoid artificial fragrances
Artificial fragrances can cause allergic reactions or irritation in sensitive skin. Studies, such as a 2021 publication in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, show that fragrances are a common cause of skin reactions in people with atopic dermatitis. It is therefore advisable to choose products without synthetic fragrances.
Recommended : Like all KAMI products, KAMI Wash Fluid is 100% natural and free of artificial fragrances. We use natural, calming aromas like lavender and Tanais Annuelle.
9. Bath additives with refatting
The use of moisturizing bath additives is particularly beneficial for dry and atopic skin. The "Dermatology Research and Practice Journal" (2022) states that oil baths containing skin-conditioning substances can retain moisture in the skin and strengthen the skin barrier.
Recommendation : When taking a bath, opt for moisturizing bath oils or special bath salts for sensitive skin. The KAMI Wash Fluid can simply be added to the bathwater for this purpose; with just 2-3 pumps, you'll have a delicate Cleopatra bath!
10. Pay attention to your skincare routine
A regular and consistent skincare routine is crucial for strengthening the skin barrier and soothing the skin in the long term. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology (2022) has shown that regular use of skincare products containing lipids and soothing ingredients can relieve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis and promote skin regeneration.
We hope we have given you some practical tips.
If you have any questions, please contact us via info@kami-skincare.com
Your Petra Vancl from the KAMI skincare team