Glossary
A chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin condition characterized by intense itching, redness, and skin barrier dysfunction. Also known as eczema, atopic dermatitis affects approximately 10 to 20% of children and 1 to 3% of adults worldwide and is associated with immune dysregulation and genetic barrier defects.
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a complex, multifactorial disease involving genetic barrier defects, immune dysregulation, environmental triggers, and skin microbiome disruption. The most significant genetic factor is mutation in the filaggrin gene (FLG), which codes for a protein critical to building the skin barrier's ceramic-like structure. Approximately 30 to 50% of AD patients carry FLG mutations, resulting in an inherently weakened barrier that loses moisture faster and admits irritants and allergens more readily.
The hallmark of atopic dermatitis is intense, often unbearable itching. This itching triggers scratching, which further damages the already compromised barrier, introduces bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, which colonizes over 90% of AD skin), amplifies inflammation, and causes more itching. Breaking this itch-scratch cycle is the central goal of treatment. Keeping the skin moisturized reduces the itch signal by maintaining barrier hydration and reducing irritant penetration.
Modern AD management follows a stepwise approach: daily emollient therapy forms the base (maintaining the barrier regardless of disease activity), topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors address acute flares, and advanced therapies (dupilumab, JAK inhibitors) target the immune pathways driving refractory disease. Consistent emollient therapy alone reduces flare frequency by approximately 50% in clinical studies.
AD skin requires exceptionally gentle products. Fragrance (the most common cosmetic allergen), harsh surfactants, and products with long ingredient lists increase the risk of triggering flares. Simple, occlusive moisturizers (petrolatum, beeswax-based balms, ceramide creams) applied liberally and frequently are the cornerstone of daily management. Our fragrance-free, water-free products provide heavy occlusion with minimal ingredients, a profile compatible with many AD management protocols.
Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema, but 'eczema' is a broader term that includes several other conditions (contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis). When people say 'eczema' without qualification, they usually mean atopic dermatitis.
Many children experience significant improvement or complete resolution by adolescence. Approximately 60 to 70% of children with AD see their symptoms improve substantially by puberty. However, the skin barrier may remain more vulnerable than average throughout life, and some individuals experience persistent or recurrent AD into adulthood.
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