
The term neurodermatitis originates from ancient Greek, combining “neuron” (nerve), “derma” (skin), and the suffix “-itis” (indicating inflammation). This name was initially used because it was believed that the skin changes were linked to nerve inflammation. However, it is now understood that this is not the case. Consequently, medical professionals prefer to use the terms "atopic dermatitis" or "atopic eczema" to describe the condition.
But what is really behind this disease?
What is Neurodermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis, also known as neurodermatitis, is a chronic, inflammatory, and non-contagious skin condition. This means the disease cannot be cured. It typically first appears in early childhood and tends to progress in phases throughout life. Individuals with neurodermatitis experience dry skin and intense itching, which can significantly impact their quality of life.
What are the causes of Neurodermatitis?
The exact causes of neurodermatitis remain unknown. However, experts believe that multiple factors contribute to its development.
One potential cause of atopic dermatitis is a disruption in the skin's natural barrier. The skin is composed of several layers, with the outermost layer, the epidermis, including both the horny layer (stratum corneum) and the germ layer. The horny layer plays a critical role in protecting the body from pathogens and environmental factors. When this barrier is compromised, the skin becomes more vulnerable to irritants, allergens, and moisture loss, which may contribute to the condition.
Several factors can disrupt the horny layer of the skin. One significant factor is genetic variation, which can cause the body to produce insufficient amounts of the protein filaggrin. Filaggrin, produced in keratinocytes, is crucial for the formation and integrity of the epidermis.
In individuals with neurodermatitis, a deficiency in filaggrin alters the composition of skin lipids. These natural lipids are essential for protecting the skin from external influences and preventing moisture loss. When the lipid balance is disrupted, the skin becomes dry and more susceptible to irritants, germs, and allergens. This imbalance triggers inflammation and itching, hallmark symptoms of neurodermatitis.
Genetic changes associated with neurodermatitis can be hereditary. If one parent has atopic dermatitis, their child has a 40% chance of developing the condition. If both parents are affected, the risk increases significantly, ranging from 60% to 80%.
Another factor that could disrupt the skin barrier is excessive hygiene. Changes in hygiene habits have led to less frequent exposure to potential disease-causing agents and allergens. Researchers suspect that this lack of exposure leaves the immune system underutilized, causing it to overreact to otherwise harmless stimuli.
Overwashing or engaging in other forms of excessive hygiene can weaken the skin barrier, making it more prone to irritation and sensitivity. This can exacerbate the symptoms of neurodermatitis by increasing vulnerability to environmental triggers.
What are the causes and triggers of Neurodermatitis?
The triggers of neurodermatitis—also known as stimuli—can vary from person to person. For this reason, it is important to pay attention to and observe your body. Some common triggers include the following:
Factors that Contribute to Skin Dryness:
- Dry (heated) air
- Cold air
- Humidity
- Temperature fluctuations
- Frequent or prolonged bathing/showering
- Sweat
Mental stress:
- Stress
- Grief
- Exciting events
- Boredom
Allergy triggers:
- House dust mites
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Certain foods and additives (e.g. wheat, soy, fish, seafood, cow's milk, egg whites, nuts, etc.)
Hormonal factors:
- Pregnancy
- Menstruation
Substances on the Skin:
- Skin-irritating detergents
- Cosmetics
- Makeup
- Certain fabrics (e.g. wool)
- Fragrances and preservatives
Environmental factors
- Tobacco smoke
- Car exhaust
- Ozone
How Can I Recognize Neurodermatitis? What Are the Symptoms of Eczema?
The appearance of atopic dermatitis is highly variable. Common symptoms include:
- Dry skin and inflamed lesions that are intensely itchy
- Thickening and roughening of the skin in affected areas
- Nodules and pustules
The severity of symptoms can vary from patient to patient. Neurodermatitis often appears in areas with thinner skin. Depending on the age, certain areas may become particularly itchy and develop noticeable symptoms.

Neurodermatitis in Infancy:
- Itchy redness of the skin
- Crust formation (such as cradle cap, though this alone is not a definitive sign)
- Weeping skin changes (the skin appears wet but is also excessively dry and struggles to retain moisture)
- Affects the face, scalp, outer sides of limbs (arms, legs), and flexor folds
- Eczema around the mouth area
Neurodermatitis in Young Children:
- Thicker, coarser skin (lichenification)
- Crust formation
- Changes in skin color (hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation)
- Affects joint bends, neck, wrists, hands, and the outer sides of limbs
Neurodermatitis in Adults:
- Thicker, coarser skin (lichenification)
- Crust formation
- Severely itchy nodules
- Affects joint bends, neck, wrists, hands, eyes, forehead, mouth area, as well as the palms and soles
Severe itching is present at all ages. It can persist throughout the day, often worsening in the evening and at night. Neurodermatitis may completely subside during puberty; however, in some patients, it persists into adulthood.
Affected individuals should resist the strong urge to scratch, as doing so can create openings in the skin, increasing the risk of bacterial and viral infections.
How is Neurodermatitis Treated?
Treatment options for neurodermatitis are varied and highly individualized. You can learn more about these methods in our blog post Treatment methods for neurodermatitis .
However, one thing we can already share is that using salt in the shower can work wonders for this skin condition.

NATURAL CARE FOR PROBLEMATIC SKIN
THE ALTERNATIVE TO SALT BATHS FOR SENSITIVE, DRY AND REDDENED SKIN.
SHOWER+ NEURODERMATITIS
The Shower+ products are ideal as essential tools for basic therapy. During use, the skin retains moisture thanks to the salt, preventing it from drying out. The salt also cleanses the skin, including scratched areas, helping to reduce itching. The Shower+ salt shower was specifically developed by individuals with neurodermatitis to meet their unique needs.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A SALT SHOWER
THE SHOWER+ STARTER SET BRINGS THE BENEFITS OF THE SEA RIGHT INTO YOUR SHOWER. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN A UNIQUE SHOWER EXPERIENCE AND LET THE POWER OF SALT NOURISH AND CARE FOR YOUR SKIN.
EXPLORE THE STARTER SET
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.