There are no data from controlled studies on the efficacy of the three substances mentioned below for atopic dermatitis, their usage is based on clinical experience.
1. Zinc
Effect:
Found as a component in basic therapeutics
- Astringent (dehydrating and anti-inflammatory due to protein precipitation)
- Anti-inflammatory (but rather weak)
- Cooling
Please note:
- Drying out of the skin possible
- To prevent excessive dehydration, consider moisturizing
- It is a significantly weaker at inhibiting inflammation than topical glucocorticosteroids / calcineurin inhibitors
2. Polidocanol
Effect:
Found as a component in ointments and bath additives
- Anaesthetic (skin numbing)
- Anti-itching
Please note:
- Rare development of a contact allergy over time (with signs of worsening eczema in the application areas)
- Can be used to support anti-inflammatory therapy, but cannot replace it
3. Tannins (synthetic or natural [black tea])
Effect:
- Astringent (dehydrating and anti-inflammatory due to protein precipitation)
Please note:
- Supportive treatment possible
- Possible drying out of the skin (pay attention to moisturizing)
- Does not replace anti-inflammatory therapy
