What should you keep in mind when cleansing inflamed skin?

For many patients with atopic dermatitis or other inflammatory skin conditions, skin cleansing is often secondary to skincare. Today, Dr. Kerstin Schallaböck, general practitioner, mother of four, and KAMI skincare founder, tells us why cleansing AND skincare are equally important.

"We have written here many times about the diverse functions of the skin. In order for these functions to be optimally fulfilled, regular and thorough cleansing of the skin is essential, also to reduce the risk of infections and other skin problems. Our skin secretes sebum and sweat every day, both of which remain on the skin and mix with particles from the air and the environment. This mixture is by no means harmless to our skin and cannot be removed with pure water: Our sebum is our "lubricant" and keeps the skin supple. Sebum consists of fats and oils, which, as we can see when washing dishes, cannot be removed with plain water.

Neurodermatitis, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammatory reactions and intense itching. Cleansing the skin in cases of neurodermatitis requires special attention, as the skin barrier is already weakened and thus more susceptible to irritation and infection. A film of everyday dirt and sebum on the skin is by no means beneficial.

What tips can I give for cleansing inflamed skin?

• What should you use for cleansing? When choosing cleansers for atopic dermatitis skin, it's important to look for mild, pH-neutral products. Avoid perfumed and soap-based products. Yes, even "good old" bar soap from the organic market! It shifts the pH of the slightly acidic skin surface to the alkaline range, allowing germs that can be stressful to the skin to grow. Instead, wash with a natural, soap-free, and moisturizing cleanser, such as KAMI Wash Fluid with anti-inflammatory copaiba balm, which was specially developed for sensitive skin.
• When and how often should you wash? In the evening, you should remove the dirt of the day, and in the morning, the sweat of the night. But washing too often can destroy the skin's natural lipid film and thus increase moisture loss. This makes it all the more important to use truly gentle products and moisturize your skin with a natural, high-quality care product after washing! If you exercise during the day and need an extra shower, plain water is sufficient.
• How do you remove makeup and other residue from your skin? When cleansing your skin with atopic dermatitis, avoid vigorous rubbing or scratching, as this can increase itching and further irritate the skin. Remove dirt and residue with gentle, circular motions, then gently pat the skin dry instead of rubbing.
• What after-cleansing care should I use? Immediately after cleansing, it's important to provide the skin with a protective layer to minimize transepidermal water loss and strengthen the skin barrier. While KAMI Wash Fluid makes the skin feel moisturized, irritated, atopic dermatitis-prone skin needs more. For acutely irritated areas, I recommend our KAMI SOS Oil; for larger areas of the body, I recommend the 2-Phase Spray, which also contains a generous dose of moisture from aloe vera.
• The water temperature: Even if you think hot water is easier to remove fat or cold water is good for circulation, both should be avoided, especially if you have sensitive skin. Lukewarm is the way to go!
• Avoid triggers! If you have atopic dermatitis, avoid irritants like heat, strong spices, or chlorine and sea salt when swimming. None of these are good for your damaged skin barrier. I know it's not easy, but unfortunately, it's a really good preventative measure.

In this sense,

stay healthy and clean!

Your Kerstin