Why Atopic Dermatitis Treatment Needs to Be More Inclusive — and How to Advocate for Your Care

“The number one rule of thumb for managing atopic dermatitis skin is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize — and when you think you’re done, moisturize some more,” says Opene.

Use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, petroleum-based moisturizer whenever possible. You could also consider products that contain colloidal oatmeal and pramoxine to help manage symptoms, says Opene.

Steer clear of products with ingredients that could be irritating to your skin or scalp or cause dryness, says Opene. These include:

• Retinoids
• Fragrances (including essential oils)
• Ethanol
• Cocamidopropyl betaine

“There’s a common misconception that people with darker skin do not need to wear sunscreen, which could not be further from the truth,” says Opene. “Consistent exposure to the sun can exacerbate atopic dermatitis symptoms — in some cases, even more so on darker skin.”

Avoid wearing spandex and tight clothing as much as possible. Instead, opt for breathable cotton with a loose fit.

Avoid shampoos and conditioners that contain fragrance and other potentially irritating ingredients, such as sulfates, salicylic acid, parabens, and alcohol. Stick to shampoos and conditioners specifically made for yeast build-up on the scalp and for eczema and scalp flare-ups, says Opene. She recommends Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo: Scalp Build-Up Control, Kiehl’s Amino Acid Shampoo, and Vanicream Shampoo for Sensitive Skin. Using a gentle conditioner after shampooing will help your hair retain moisture.

Although scalp flare-ups may make you want to wash your hair more frequently, resist the urge, Opene advises. Try to wash your hair only every one to two weeks. More frequent washing can cause your hair to become overly dry, which can encourage or even worsen scalp symptoms.

Also, remember to be gentle when washing and drying your hair. Try your best not to scratch your scalp while shampooing. Instead, focus on delicately cleaning your scalp and hair without aggravating them. 

The tension and irritation from hairstyles such as box braids, cornrows, and knotless braids may make scalp symptoms worse, says Opene. This also applies to other styles that apply tension to the scalp for long periods, including tight ponytails and buns. Instead, try to wear them looser and take them down at night when sleeping, she advises. Also, limit heat styling with straighteners and curling irons to twice a week or less, as these tools can put added stress on the scalp and increase flares, Opene adds.