Atopic dermatitis is a long-lasting skin condition that produces a strong itching and then a red, raised rash. It commonly develops in early childhood and continues into the adolescence years. Adults also can have it or have milder problems than they did as infants, along with sensitive-skin problems.

If you have atopic dermatitis, your skin is highly sensitive to irritants and is prone to becoming itchy and developing a rash. Scratching may seem to relieve the itch, but it usually results in a rash and leads to a self-perpetuating circle of itching, scratching, and rash.

Skin afflicted by dermatitis must be kept well hydrated. Although scientists have yet to fully understand the causes of atopic dermatitis, it is known that skin dryness plays a big part in exacerbating symptoms.

Good skin care is an essential part of controlling the rash and itch of dermatitis. To help avoid a cycle of scratching, itching, and rash, maintain your skin hydrated and recognize and avoid skin irritants.

Follow these tips to care for your skin: - Soak in clean, warm (not hot) water for 3 to 5 minutes. Your skin will absorb water and still retain its biological oils. Losing the biological oils will result in dry skin. You may shower when atopic dermatitis is under control or when an outbreak is mild.

- Don't use soap every time you take a bath. If you need some soap, use a gentle, non-drying product. Soap should be regularly used only on the groin, underarms, and feet, and rinse immediately afterward. Children afflicted by atopic dermatitis should not stay sit in soapy water.

- Don't add bubble bath and bath oils to the bathwater, because they may alter your skin's ability to absorb water.

- Don't use washcloths or scrub brushes.

- Pat your skin dry after a bath or shower. While your skin is still moist or even wet, immediately apply a moisturizer, within 3 minutes of leaving the bath or shower. Waiting longer allows the skin to dry out. For severe dryness, try petroleum jelly, mineral oil, or an all-herbal shortening. The moisturizer must be applied several times a day.

- Talk to your health professional about using a wet bandage over the afflicted patch. It can help relieve symptoms but it can be troublesome if some skin treatment is being administered on the skin.

And, of course, avoid skin irritants at all costs, such as some cleansing solutions, scratchy clothing or bedding, places with low humidity, sunburn, damp hands or feet, sudden changes of temperature, excessive sweating, and emotional stress.