KAMI SKINCARE BLOG
Atopic dermatitis in babies - what you should know as a mother
Mothers with atopic dermatitis do not have it easy. You watch your baby or toddler suffer, you suffer with them, People look for solutions . And they may even blame themselves, since the origins of the disease are not fully understood, and environmental and genetic factors also play a role. Dr. Schallaböck summarizes for us the best course of action when babies or small children develop atopic dermatitis. "When I look at my healthy boy today, it almost seems like a nightmare to me how much he suffered as a baby. And with him, the whole family. Of course, as a doctor, I had an advantage – I could diagnose the symptoms and had the solutions from conventional medicine at my fingertips. But I was ill-equipped to deal with the suffering and the failure of all my attempts. I only found a solution with the development of KAMI SOS skin care oil. Today, I would like to share some "accompanying" information that might make it easier for you to cope with the condition." Atopic eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is now the most common childhood skin disease in industrialized countries. Atopic dermatitis is chronic and usually occurs in bouts. Including mild forms, approximately 15% of children are affected. It usually fades during school entry or puberty. However, many recovered patients struggle with problematic skin for life, often caused by long-term cortisone use. In 85% of cases, the first symptoms appear in the first year of life: These are atopic dermatitis symptoms that often occur in babies: Newborns often have dry skin or red, weeping areas in the skin folds; From the 2nd to 4th month, blurred, red or even weeping lesions form on the cheeks, head and extensor sides of the arms and legs, sometimes with blisters, scales or even crusts; The diaper area, however, is usually left out; Bacterial infections often develop on these areas of inflammation, causing yellow crusts and oozing; this is called bacterial exacerbation. These rashes are accompanied by intense itching, often accompanied by sweating, which then leads to scratching. This is particularly aggravating because bacteria can enter through these scratched areas. The mechanical irritation also causes the release of messenger substances called mast cells, which further stimulate the immune process and thus the atopic dermatitis. Itching is the main symptom of atopic dermatitis and the cause of the greatest suffering for those affected. Not to mention that the entire family increasingly suffers from sleep deprivation, a guilty conscience, and helplessness. How does atopic dermatitis develop and what are the triggers The repeated talk of genetic predisposition certainly doesn't ease parents' consciences. If parents are affected or suffer from asthma and hay fever, the risk increases many times over. However, this doesn't explain the increasing incidence of the disease. Research therefore sees a connection with our lifestyle, which doesn't adequately "train" children's immune systems in early years. The disease is usually triggered by a trigger; possible, individually different trigger factors include: Allergens such as food, pollen or dust mites, pets; infections; Stress and exhaustion; tooth eruption; Irritants such as detergents, cosmetics, clothing or sweat; Climatic factors such as the change of seasons. However, it has been shown that avoiding these triggers cannot completely prevent the onset of the disease. For example, studies show that delaying the introduction of complementary foods had no effect; in fact, it actually exacerbated it. It has also not yet been proven that long-term breastfeeding reduces the tendency to develop atopic dermatitis, even though the positive effects of breastfeeding on the immune system have been proven. Rather, it is recommended to closely observe the attacks and subsequently minimize triggers through greater awareness. What is happening in the body? As mentioned, the causes and processes involved have not yet been sufficiently researched, and a multifunctional disorder is likely. However, it is certain that atopic dermatitis is NOT a psychosomatic illness or is originally caused by psychological problems. However, the following are certain: Abnormalities in the immune system, particularly altered behavior of defense cells; There are differences from "normal" allergies; there are more similarities to autoimmune diseases. At the same time, however, people with atopic dermatitis are also more susceptible to additional allergies. Increased sensitivity and reaction to changes in diet, daily routine or vaccinations, even in the absence of allergies; Disruption of the skin's barrier function: The protective acid mantle is impaired, the sebaceous glands suffer from hypofunction, the skin becomes very dry, which also increases the itching! The autonomic nervous system is more vulnerable: blood vessels contract more strongly in cold weather, people with neurodermatitis sweat less or very heavily; Increased susceptibility to disorders of the gastrointestinal tract; Hypersensitivity in all areas of everyday life, mental balance is quickly disrupted. What should you do if your baby shows signs of atopic dermatitis? Atopic dermatitis is not easy to treat, and dogmas should be avoided. Every patient reacts differently; what helps one person may worsen the skin in another. It is also often reported that certain remedies and methods work for a while and then suddenly stop working. It has also been shown that allergy tests aren't really that effective. People with atopic dermatitis react to many things, and eliminating the allergen may bring short-term relief, but the long-term consequences must be balanced against other consequences, such as malnutrition. Instead, triggers for flare-ups should be identified through careful observation. The right treatment must therefore be developed individually and found through trial and error. In general, a distinction must be made between basic care and the treatment of acute attacks: Acute treatment: Many of my patients and KAMI customers confirm that KAMI SOS Skin Care Oil or KAMI SOS Skin Care Balm have helped them a lot, especially with the itching. However, sometimes treatment with cortisone creams for a limited period of time is a necessary evil, and there are different concentrations available. Your doctor will recommend the correct dosage and application; a "tapering" phase is often recommended. It's best to apply the products after bathing, when the skin is still moisturized and can absorb the active ingredients better. Basic care: Oily products that strengthen the skin barrier should be used here. Additional cold protection is recommended in winter. Our KAMI products are ideal for this, as they sustainably strengthen the skin barrier. Bathing and washing should also be done with moisturizing products, without soap, such as our KAMI Wash Fluid. It's best not to wash your hair in the shower or bathtub to avoid skin contact with the shampoo; it's better to do it while leaning forward in the sink. I'd like to conclude with the medical explanations here. I'll save the tips for living with a child with atopic dermatitis for one of the following blogs. I hope this article was interesting for you and I look forward to your feedback at info@kami-skincare.com Do my tips help you in your everyday life? Write to me! Kind regards Your Kerstin Read here Further tips for everyday life with babies or children who suffer from atopic dermatitis.
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Skin rashes in babies - what to consider
Many inquiries we receive from KAMI skinscare concern skin problems in young children. Mothers send photos and ask if our KAMI products are suitable for their specific problem. In a KAMI team meeting, we decided that all our customers should benefit from the expertise of the founder, general practitioner Kerstin Schallaböck. Therefore, we have briefly summarized the problems. DISCLAIMER: Please note that this information is general. For an accurate diagnosis, please consult a doctor. "When I read the inquiries from our users, I'm often reminded of the time when our youngest, Kami, was still a baby and suffered greatly from his atopic dermatitis. He wasn't even six months old yet and often cried through the night because the itching tormented him so much. But it wasn't just him who suffered; the entire family suffered! The situation was very stressful for all family members. I also tried to quickly solve the itching problem with cortisone creams, only to find that this only helped in the short term. Our Kami's first attempt at using KAMI SOS Oil helped with his itching. But not every itchy rash is atopic dermatitis. There are many different types of skin rashes. I'm trying to provide an overview here, but of course, I can't make a diagnosis from a distance. For a proper diagnosis, please see your pediatrician!" What are the most common problems? Baby skin doesn't normally need much. The "Midwife's Consultation Hour," a standard textbook for first-time mothers by midwife Ingeborg Stadelmann, recommends a mixture of almond oil, avocado oil, and other plant oils, with a few drops of rose geranium or rose oil if desired. However, newborn skin is naturally very thin and produces little sebum. Therefore, skin problems can easily arise. Baby acne: Newborn acne affects boys more often than girls. These are small reddish pimples that often appear shortly after birth but disappear on their own. For most children, baby acne disappears after four months at the latest. It's good to know: Babies with newborn acne aren't bothered by the pimples. The rash causes neither pain nor itching, and it doesn't leave scars. CARE TIP: In this case, avoid using greasy creams. These can worsen the rash and cause sweating and itching. Overheating should be avoided at all costs. Especially important in winter: Undress or cover your baby if you're in a store or shopping center for an extended period! Cradle cap, often called cradle cap: A common skin condition in newborns caused by excessive sebum production, it can be hormonal (maternal hormones in the baby's body) or caused by a yeast fungus, which is also naturally present on the skin. The yellowish-brown, scaly skin patches, which often appear on the scalp, are unsightly but usually cause no discomfort and disappear on their own over time. However, this is different from true cradle cap, a type of atopic dermatitis, which looks more like burnt milk. It can also lead to crusting and is often accompanied by itching. If you suspect this, show the rash to your pediatrician. CARE TIP: I recommend a lot of patience and extremely gentle cleansing. Baths with our oil-based KAMI Cleansing Fluid can work well. A gentle massage with a baby brush can also help, but avoid reddening the skin. To soothe the skin or if inflammation also occurs, I recommend KAMI SOS Skin Care Oil. If the cradle cap is particularly stubborn, talk to your pediatrician. Diaper rash: Diaper rash is a skin irritation commonly found in newborns. It is caused by a combination of harsh moisture (urine), friction, and the skin's reaction to ingredients in diapers. It often occurs when the bottom skin is exposed to wet conditions for an extended period. This causes the skin in the diaper area to become red and irritated, often swollen. The baby experiences discomfort and/or itching, and expresses this with tears. A yeast infection may also be present. CARE TIP : Diaper rash can be prevented by changing diapers frequently. This keeps the diaper area dry. Babies love to kick around naked, which is also a good way to prevent diaper rash. I also recommend natural cleansing with plain water and washcloths instead of ready-made cleansing wipes. While these are super convenient for use on the go, they contain a lot of preservatives that destroy the natural skin flora. So, if possible at home, avoid wet wipes and the like (it also saves money!). If the bottom does get red, our KAMI balm can help. Applied thinly, it nourishes with shea butter, coconut oil, vegetable lanolin, and many other oils. Heat rash : I often see babies in stores and shopping malls with their padded suits in strollers, their heads all red and blotchy because they're so hot. Even in summer, sensitive babies often get red spots and even pustules from the heat. CARE TIP: It's important to remember that babies can't regulate their body temperature like adults can. They hardly sweat, which can quickly lead to overheating. They also don't have a layer of fat to protect them from the cold. Therefore, always make sure to dress your baby appropriately for the outside temperature and the mode of transport (baby carrier, stroller), and remember that heat escapes primarily through the head. If hot spots appear, ensure a comfortable temperature, and the problem will disappear. So, if you're staying indoors for extended periods in winter, take off the snowsuit and hat! Neurodermatitis, also known as atopic dermatitis: We've written about neurodermatitis here many times. It's important to note that it usually only appears at six months of age. Our customers have had very positive experiences with KAMI SOS Care Oil for neurodermatitis. I would therefore recommend everyone try KAMI SOS Care Oil before using cortisone products on babies. If the rash is open or inflamed, or if it doesn't go away after prolonged use, you should consult a doctor. Between neurodermatitis flare-ups (this applies to all age groups), care with KAMI products is recommended, as it strengthens the skin barrier. I hope I have given you a good overview and remain kind regards Your Kerstin
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Neurodermatitis flare-ups in autumn - care tips
Neurodermatitis, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Autumn can be a particularly difficult time for people with neurodermatitis, as the cool, dry air and temperature fluctuations can worsen symptoms. Dr. Kerstin Schallaböck, general practitioner, mother of four, and KAMI skincare founder, tells us today how best to deal with it. "In autumn, humans also experience significant changes in their skin; we, too, shed our fur, just like our pets. In addition, both children at school and adults are increasingly exposed to stress factors after the summer's quiet periods. This leads to a greater sensitization to potential triggers and allergens. Today, I'd like to remind you of a few tips that you may have all heard before, but perhaps forget in your daily life." How to care for inflamed skin: Moisturize: Keep your skin well-hydrated by regularly using hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizers or ointments. Avoid products with irritating ingredients. My KAMI skincare products contain only ingredients specifically selected for their beneficial effects on inflammation. Gentle cleansing: Always use mild, soap-free cleansers to cleanse your skin, such as our KAMI Cleansing Fluid. Avoid hot water, as it can dry out your skin. After washing, gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing. Short baths: Always take short, lukewarm baths or showers to avoid further drying out your skin. Avoid adding irritating substances like perfumes or bubble baths. KAMI Wash Fluid is extremely moisturizing and virtually eliminates the need for moisturizer after a bath or shower. Cotton clothing: Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing to minimize irritation. Avoid synthetic fabrics and tight clothing, as they can irritate the skin. For children, there are great clothes at Chill n Feel: Vegan organic baby clothes, eco-friendly toys & baby gifts . In Vienna I find Tiny Society – tinysocietyvienna very sweet, you will get good advice. Avoid heating air: Try to avoid excessive heating, as it can dry out the air. Use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity. Hanging damp towels or laundry can also help, as can plants, which improve the indoor climate (but please not in the bedroom!). Reduce allergens: Try to reduce allergens that could aggravate your atopic dermatitis, such as dust mites, pet dander, or pollen. Keep your home "clutter-free" and clean, and always well-ventilated. Soothing compresses: For severe itching, cold, moist compresses can provide temporary relief. You can apply KAMI SOS Skin Care Oil, for example, under the moist compress and gently dab it onto the affected areas of skin. Drug treatment: During a flare-up, follow your dermatologist's instructions regarding prescribed topical medications or ointments to relieve symptoms, but be careful not to cause the areas to become bloody or raw. Nutrition and hydration: Make sure you eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids, as a healthy diet and adequate hydration can support healthy skin. Children often forget to drink enough, so it's worth reminding them occasionally. Consult a doctor or dermatologist you trust: If symptoms are particularly severe in the fall, it is advisable to develop an individual treatment strategy and possibly adjust care and treatment. I hope that you can still enjoy this wonderful season and wish you All love Your Kerstin
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Dry skin after summer - what to do?
Photo Caro Strasnig @carostrasnik.com Summer is currently showing its full potential, and the combination of sun and water creates a pure holiday feeling even at home. Unfortunately, this combination isn't ideal for our skin, and even though vitamin D stores are being replenished, we still have a lot of skincare to do. Dr. Kerstin Schallaböck, general practitioner, mother of four, and KAMI skincare founder, tells us today how to get our skin back in shape and prepare it for cold, wet autumn days. "While people with a tendency to acne complain of increased sebum production in the summer, people with skin that tends to be dry are more likely to suffer from a feeling of tension and dandruff in the summer. The combination of UV radiation, frequent swimming or Showering exacerbates this. At the same time, swimming and exercising in water are the healthiest ways to exercise or stay active in hot weather. I wouldn't do without it, and I have a few tips for you: What makes the skin fit again? UV protection is essential, even if you stay in the shade; this also prevents long-term effects such as wrinkles and age spots. Always shower after swimming in salt or chlorinated water, preferably with lukewarm water. If possible, avoid using soap-based shower gels, as they can be even more drying. Our KAMI Body Wash is soap-free and moisturizing. Immediately afterward, apply moisturizer or oil—ideally while your skin is still damp. Moisturize your face AND body regularly. Always use a moisturizer (serum or lotion) if you feel tight, but follow with a light oil or other protective treatment to reduce subsequent water loss through the skin. Products with hyaluronic acid, for example, or—if you prefer a more natural approach like us—aloe vera provide moisture. Our KAMI 2-Phase Spray offers the ideal combination of moisturizing aloe vera and protective oils. Air conditioning is THE skin killer! The air is dry and literally sucks the moisture out of your skin. If you can't avoid it—at the office or because it's simply too hot—counteract it with facial spray and moisturizer. You can use an empty spray bottle with a fine mist: simply fill it with clean water (perhaps enriched with cucumber) and mist your face repeatedly. Alternatively, you can, of course, use store-bought thermal spring water sprays. Treat your skin to a mask every now and then. You don't have to buy expensive products for this; the often-ridiculed cucumber and yogurt combination works just as well. If you prefer a more practical approach, mix a moisturizer with a few drops of KAMI SOS oil, apply it thicker than usual, and let it work while you relax on the couch. Drink, drink, drink. This means non-alcoholic, and preferably sugar-free, drinks, of course. Alcohol dilates the skin's capillaries and leads to further dehydration! In this sense, stay fresh! Your Kerstin
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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
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Springtime - allergy time?
With the eagerly awaited arrival of spring, the annual stress begins for pollen allergy sufferers. Allergies are triggered by a variety of factors, including food, pet dander, dust, and pollen, among the most common. Some members of the KAMI skincare team also suffer greatly from their pollen allergies in the spring. We'd like to share some background information and tips: Allergies are the body's immune responses to normally harmless substances. The immune system produces antibodies called immunoglobulins, which in turn trigger the release of histamines. These cause the following symptoms: Cold symptoms such as a runny or blocked nose Itchy, red or watery eyes Itchy and red rashes on the skin Swelling of various skin areas such as the tongue and throat Breathing difficulties, asthma Nausea, dizziness and vomiting Anaphylactic shock, a serious reaction that is life-threatening Latest findings on the development of allergies: In addition to hereditary predisposition, there are several factors that are repeatedly blamed for the development of allergies. We would like to inform you about the current state of scientific research. Breastfeeding, for example, is recommended as a way to prevent allergies. However, the data is not yet conclusive enough to support this. Avoiding certain foods that often trigger allergies during pregnancy has absolutely no effect on the unborn child's susceptibility to allergies. Feeding hypoallergenic (low-allergenic) infant formula or soy and cereal milk instead of cow's milk also has no effect on the tendency to allergies. Late feeding of potentially allergenic foods may even be contraindicated and should only be done in children with severe eczema. The fact that urban children suffer from allergies and asthma more frequently than rural children has led to the emergence of the so-called "cowshed theory." The reason for this lower allergy predisposition appears to be the microbiome, which can develop better under "stress": Contact with many different bacterial species and microbes in the respiratory tract and intestines enriches and strengthens the immune system. Treatment methods that replicate this effect through the administration of bacterial lysates are being developed. Furthermore, a study shows that the administration of antibiotics in infancy promotes the development of allergies and asthma. Further information is available here: http://redirect.doccheck.com/Antibiotika-im-Kindesalter-114 How do you deal with allergies if you are already allergic? Avoid allergens: There are well-known tips such as avoiding fresh air and keeping windows closed during pollen season. Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays containing cortisone reduce inflammation and block the effects of histamines. Modern antihistamines are no longer as drowsy as they once were. However, there are natural alternatives to cortisone for rashes, such as our KAMI SOS Skin Care Oil, which strengthens the skin barrier and cares for inflamed skin. Alternative therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy can provide relief. Stress weakens the immune system and worsens allergy symptoms. Yoga, meditation, and calming breathing techniques can reduce allergy flare-ups. So-called immunotherapy, a long-term treatment in which patients are repeatedly exposed to small amounts of the allergen, is also intended to build tolerance. Allergic skin reactions – what to do? Atopic dermatitis flare-ups and other itchy skin rashes are conventionally treated with cortisone creams. These have long-term effects on the skin barrier, weakening it and causing thinning or dry skin. KAMI skincare can provide a soothing and strengthening effect: The marmot oil it contains acts like a natural steroid, yet has no side effects. The synergistic blend of organic plant oils in KAMI skincare ensures that the active ingredients can penetrate deeply and strengthen the skin at a deep level. People with skin problems should also use pH-neutral cleansers. These save the skin the stress of balancing its pH level. KAMI Wash Fluid also has a strong moisturizing effect, thus nourishing sensitive skin while washing. We hope that you can still enjoy spring and wish you a trouble-free time. Your KAMI skincare team
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Triggers for atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis, also known as neurodermatitis, is an allergic inflammation of the skin, where the allergen is the body's own skin; it is therefore an autoimmune reaction. The skin reacts excessively to minor stimuli, and combinations with other autoimmune symptoms, such as allergic asthma, are very common. Dr. Kerstin Schallaböck, general practitioner, mother of four, and founder of KAMI skincare, tells us which of these “small stimuli,” which have no consequences for other, less sensitive people, you should pay attention to as a person with atopic dermatitis or the parent of a child with atopic dermatitis. "People who are prone to atopic dermatitis almost always exhibit a high degree of sensitivity. This applies to emotional stimuli as well as physical ones. This can have genetic roots—children of people who were themselves prone to atopic dermatitis as children are more often affected—but the high sensitivity and irritability often also develop in children without a hereditary predisposition. This sensitivity must be recognized and addressed to break the cycle of skin inflammation, itching, and cortisone use. Irritants should be avoided, and skin function should be strengthened. Accepting one's own sensitivity and communicating with others affected can also lead to significant, even emotional, relief. What are the most common triggers for flare-ups? Change of seasons: Rising and falling temperatures and humidity require our skin to adapt. This drains energy and weakens it, leading to dryness and a temporary loss of barrier protection. WHAT TO DO: Regular skin care with moisturizing cleansing and care products can strengthen the skin barrier and prevent inflammation. Stress: Hypersensitive people have a harder time dealing with pressure. They tend to be perfectionists, wanting to please everyone. Even small children are affected by this when they are overwhelmed by stimuli and don't get enough time to unwind. Women, on the other hand, try to meet all demands in their multitasking daily lives and be the super partner/employee/mom/friend and employee on every front. That doesn't work; the body reveals the limits that one hasn't set for oneself. WHAT TO DO AS PARENTS: Pay attention and recognize when your child needs peace and quiet, not to be entertained. Allow time for daydreaming and boredom. WHAT TO DO AS AN ADULT: Recognize and set your own boundaries. Accepting your resilience and sensitivity and learning to deal with them will help you avoid stressful situations. Groceries: Histamine-rich foods, such as the first strawberries, can trigger skin reactions. If a minor infection is lurking or school stress is intense, these—individually small—stimuli multiply and can throw the skin into turmoil. WHAT TO DO: Especially in times of high infection rates, be especially conscious of stress management and pay attention to your diet. So, skip a day of school if everyone is sick and focus on easily digestible foods. These are rarely the real vitamin bombs—vegetables and fruit often trigger allergies—but more often the foods known as recovery foods. Infections : After COVID, flu, and vaccinations, the body's defense system is ramped up, so to speak, and the immune system is on alert. Here, too, even a minor stimulus can trigger severe skin reactions. WHAT TO DO: Be especially careful, avoid stimuli, ensure peace and quiet. Environmental factors : Clothing that is contaminated with synthetics and questionable dyes or chemicals used for protection during long transport, as well as environmental toxins lurking in the air and furniture, can also trigger irritations and often act as a cross-allergy with other sensitivities, triggering skin reactions. WHAT TO DO: Shop consciously, buy less, pay attention to quality, and buy good, high-quality clothing—even used—at swap meets. Look for European products, as manufacturing standards are stricter there than elsewhere. We recommend the label Skin-friendly , hypoallergenic toys and children's clothing specially developed for children with neurodermatitis, made from high-quality, cooling cotton. I hope this information has helped you a little and I wish you and your skin all the best. Your Kerstin
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How I use KAMI SOS skin care oil
We receive many inquiries from people interested in our KAMI skincare products and want to know if they're suitable for their problem. Today, we'd like to share with you a review from KAMI skincare partner Elisabeth. She's been a KAMI fan since day one. Hello, my dears. I'm getting in touch with you today. May I briefly introduce myself? My name is Elisabeth. Among other things, I'm the legal advisor at KAMI; in a previous life, I was a lawyer. Now I'm the mother of four lively boys (12, 12, 11, and 7) and a partner at KAMI. When my friend Kerstin told me about “her miracle cure called Kami” a few years ago, I was immediately enthusiastic. Since my children were born, I've tried to cure their various aches and pains with home remedies whenever possible. So, chest compresses with onions, honey milk, and arnica cream instead of cough syrup and paracetamol. And I've actually had pretty good results with them! That's why I was very interested in Kerstin's miracle cure with marmot oil, especially because two of my children had severe atopic dermatitis rashes on the backs of their knees, the insides of their elbows, and their thighs. When I started treating the areas with the oil, they soon felt better. So, it was no question that I said yes when Kerstin asked me to participate in the "professionalization" of KAMI. Now, of course, I use KAMI products extensively. The family favorite – especially now in winter – is the balm. It brings my chapped hands and red, runny noses back to perfect condition; my husband rubs it on his dry lips while skiing, and one of our sons secretly uses it as a skin cream. The KAMI SOS Roller is always with me for minor aches and pains on the go. So, if my little one gets bitten by an ant while out and about and thinks he can't go any further, I pull out my KAMI Roller and magically make everything disappear. The magic also works on minor burns, mosquito bites, athlete's elbow, and even growing pains. I mix the KAMI SOS oil into my foot cream, especially in winter, and into my sunscreen when skiing to make it a little richer. My husband, on the other hand, rubs the oil onto his face immediately after shaving, which reduces his ingrown hairs and red patches on his cheeks and chin. The unique thing about KAMI, the marmot oil, is that it's a truly versatile miracle cure. My mother used it on her surgical scars, so I'd been familiar with it for a long time, but had forgotten about it. Besides, my mom's bottle of oil was smelly and unsightly. KAMI skincare is so successful for me because it draws on our traditional natural remedies, but smells good and looks beautiful, too. As you can see, the range of applications for KAMI products is quite broad, and we also regularly receive reports about new applications. Where do you use KAMI? Write to us; we'd love to hear about your experiences and send you before/after photos. Best regards Elizabeth
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Skin care in winter
Even though this winter has been very mild so far, it's still a challenge for our skin. The temperature differences between indoors and outdoors, the dry air from heating, and especially the dry air are taking their toll on it. Today, Dr. Kerstin Schallaböck, general practitioner, mother of four, and founder of KAMI skincare, tells us what we can do to keep it healthy through the winter. "When we are exposed to extreme cold, the body reduces blood flow to the skin to conserve body heat for our organs. Reduced blood flow also reduces oxygen and nutrient supply, and the skin's metabolism slows down. This also reduces our skin's sebum production, and our skin is less protected from drying out. Dry skin becomes brittle, which causes further moisture loss. Heating air aggravates the situation. The skin feels tight, itchy, red, and flaky. Children's skin already produces less sebum, and their skin is thinner and therefore even more vulnerable. Protection is important, even if children don't like applying sunscreen. What should you consider when caring for your skin in winter? It's about two things: first, we need to provide our skin with sufficient moisture and second, we need to ensure that this moisture is not lost and that it doesn't dry out. Add moisture: Even in winter, your skin needs moisturizers or serums. Of course, you can also prevent the evaporation of absorbed water by applying body or facial oils immediately after bathing or washing. You should also make sure you drink enough water, even in winter. Maintain moisture: To reduce so-called transepidermal water loss, the skin should be protected with moisturizing products. Occlusion—covering—creates a barrier that prevents moisture from evaporating. In this context, numerous media outlets are currently discussing the so-called "slugging" This involves applying a thick layer of greasy cream to the face; Vaseline is often recommended. Vaseline is a mineral oil product, and although it is, of course, completely pure and harmless to health, our skin cannot function with it, so it doesn't benefit from it. Any natural oil is more valuable to the skin, as it supplies fatty acids and nutrients. This thick layer of fat retains a lot of water in the skin, preventing it from evaporating. This can be beneficial in cases of extreme stress and very dry skin, but normally a lot ends up on clothing and bedding. KAMI SOS Skin Care Oil contains linoleic and linolenic acids, which are very similar to the composition of our skin, as well as a variety of nutrients and trace elements that further soothe and balance the skin. If you're planning on exercising or playing outdoors, KAMI SOS Balm is even better. It also contains shea butter, beeswax, and plant-based linolenic acid, making it an ideal product for slugging. In addition, in winter it is important to bathe or shower properly: The water shouldn't be too hot—around 35 degrees Celsius is good—and you should avoid drying soaps and anything that further stresses the skin's pH. pH-neutral cleansing products, such as KAMI Wash Fluid, are ideal. Problem skin in winter: People with atopic dermatitis/atopic dermatitis suffer more from flare-ups in winter because their skin dries out even more easily. Preventative measures should be taken with skin barrier-strengthening products that improve skin's resilience. If dehydration can be prevented, the tendency to inflammation also decreases. Water-in-oil emulsions or oils are very suitable, and KAMI SOS Skin Care Oil and KAMI SOS Balm also provide ideal support and soothing. With this in mind, I wish you happy holidays Yours, Kerstin Schallaböck
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