Skin and lotion

Skin and moisturizing, an extremely important topic, because dry skin, also known medically as xerosis cutis, is a common problem. The likelihood of suffering from dry skin increases with age. This is because the natural production of skin fatty acids decreases with age: This dryness can trigger itching, which in turn can lead to further skin irritation and inflammation - creating a vicious circle. It is therefore particularly important to care for the skin regularly, ideally with a moisturizing cream once or twice a day.

Good skin care and regular application of cream is particularly important for those affected by skin diseases. One example of this is atopic dermatitis (syn. neurodermatitis), a skin disease characterized by eczema, itching and dry skin. The symptoms are particularly pronounced on the flexor sides of the extremities. This atopic dermatitis is often associated with a disturbed skin barrier, which is why skin care plays a central role in therapy. Consistent moisturizing care twice a day can support the skin barrier and alleviate itching.

The official AWMF guidelines on the treatment of chronic pruritus (itching) also emphasize the importance of consistent basic therapy. The effectiveness of itch-relieving measures depends on various factors, such as the active ingredients used, excipients and galenic properties (cream, ointment, oil). In the basic therapy of pruritus, attention should be paid to good lipid replenishment, hydration and stabilization of the physiological skin barrier. 

In addition, continuity of care pays off, and good basic therapy should be continued even in symptom-free phases.

It is important to use the right amount of cream so that the skin care can work well. The amount depends on the body surface area (KOF). There is a rule of thumb to simplify the calculation. 

This rule of thumb states that around 0.25g of cream is required for 1% KOF. This means that 0.25g corresponds to about half a fingertip. 

Here is an example to help you understand: the squat, elbow and hands together make up 5% of the KOF, so about 1.25g of cream (5 x 0.25g) is needed. If 0.25g corresponds to half a fingertip, we need a total of 2.5 fingertips for 1.25g. 

The search for the right cream is individual and often requires patience when trying it out.

When it comes to skin and sunscreen, sun protection is of course a must. Here, too, there is a rule of thumb: it is best to always use a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50, so nobody goes wrong. However, your skin's need for protection naturally depends on your skin type. You can easily determine your skin type online and then determine your skin's need for protection using the following formula: 

Self-protection time of the individual skin type x SPF = protected time in the sun

The UV index should also be taken into account and behavior should be adapted to the UV index. Behavior adapted to the UV index includes textile sun protection and regular reapplication, preferably every two hours and after bathing. This is because sunburn should always be avoided. However, care not only plays a role in basic skin care, but also in sunburn. Moisturizing and rehydrating the skin helps it to regenerate after sunburn. 

Summary

• Regular basic skin care once or twice a day, especially after stressing the skin (after swimming, going to the sauna, sun exposure)
• A good basic therapy is the foundation of any skin therapy 
• Creams with special active ingredients should only be used for corresponding underlying diseases.
• The amount of sun protection you need depends on the current UV index, your own skin type, your own protection time and the amount of time you spend outdoors

These tips will help to keep your skin healthy and alleviate discomfort. Apply cream - for the sake of your skin ❤️