Atopic Dermatitis May Disrupt Children's Sleep and Family Activities
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is not merely dry skin and itch. In children, if not addressed properly and consistently, this chronic condition can disrupt the child’s quality of life and daily family activities.
Dermatology, Venereology and Aesthetic Specialist, Dr Dia Febrina, Sp.DVE, FINSDV, says atopic dermatitis is a relatively common skin disorder in children. “According to data from the American Academy of Dermatology, one in five children are affected by atopic dermatitis, with higher risk in children who have a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema,” she noted during the Together for Atopic Skin campaign in Jakarta recently.
Many parents still think atopic dermatitis is simply dry skin, though this condition involves a disrupted skin barrier and inflammation that makes the skin extremely uncomfortable. “Especially for children who cannot yet articulate what they feel,” added Dr FX Clinton, Sp.DVE, at the same event.
He explained that atopic dermatitis is generally characterised by dry skin, redness, itch, and even sleep disturbances due to persistent discomfort. The condition not only affects the child but also influences parents and daily family dynamics.
Pediatric Specialist, Dr Kartika Eda, Sp.A, said that undiagnosed and untreated atopic dermatitis can impact a child’s sleep quality, mood, bonding with parents, and daily family activities. Therefore, management of atopic dermatitis should be consistent, not just when symptoms are flaring.
Pediatric Specialist, Dr Fihzan Ginting, M.Ked(Ped), Sp.A, explained that atopic skin has a more permeable skin barrier and therefore requires special care to help maintain daily skin moisture and comfort.
“It is important to choose products designed specifically for atopic skin, with a gentle formulation suitable for daily use to help maintain skin comfort,” he said.
In addition to routine care, understanding the skin microbiome has become a focus in managing atopic dermatitis. Medical data show that atopic skin experiences an imbalance in the microbiome, where bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus can dominate and trigger inflammation and increase the risk of flares. Therefore, maintaining a balanced skin microbiome is regarded as an important part of long-term management of atopic dermatitis.
Through the ‘Together for Atopic Skin’ campaign, Mustela provides education on recognising early dermatitis symptoms, understanding the function of the skin barrier, and the importance of consistent skincare. Brand Manager Mustela, Indira Natalia, said that atopic skin care is not just about reducing symptoms, but also supporting families to undertake care more comfortably.
As part of the campaign, Mustela also established the Mustela Medical Advisory Board comprising dermatology and paediatric specialists to deliver medically-based education for Indonesian families.
In addition to medical education, the campaign partners with Reisa Broto Asmoro as a public figure and mother with experience supporting a child with atopic skin.
“As a parent, we often feel sad watching our child continually uncomfortable. What is most reassuring is when we understand the condition and know how to care for it properly,” she said.
To support atopic skin care, Mustela also offers the Stelatopia line formulated to help maintain the skin barrier and balance the skin microbiome. The products contain natural ingredients such as avocado perseose and sunflower oil distillate, and are intended for long-term use on atopic skin.
Raising awareness about atopic dermatitis is increasingly important, as many parents do not realise that the condition is chronic and requires ongoing care. With a better understanding of the skin barrier, microbiome, and the importance of regular care, children with atopic dermatitis are hoped to participate more comfortably in daily activities and enjoy a better quality of life.