Atopic Dermatitis

What is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition in which skin-barrier dysfunction and immune hypersensitivity appear together. Severe itch, red rashes, oozing, and lichenification (thickened skin) tend to wax and wane over time.

Overview of atopic dermatitis
β–² A chronic inflammatory skin disease in which the skin barrier and immune response both fluctuate
Causes and Aggravating Factors:
  • Genetic predisposition (family history)
  • Immune abnormality (Th2-skewed response)
  • Skin-barrier damage (e.g., filaggrin gene)
  • Environmental factors: dryness, allergens, particulate matter, stress
  • Dietary factors: processed foods, and individual triggers such as dairy, wheat, or eggs

The Korean Medicine View of Atopy

Korean medicine does not view atopy as a skin-only problem. Internal heat, dampness (ζΏ•), blood deficiency (θ‘€θ™›), digestive burden, and immune imbalance are seen as internal conditions that surface on the skin. Rather than merely suppressing outward symptoms, a root approach that matches each person's constitution and condition is needed.

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Damp-Heat Type (ζΏ•η†±εž‹)

Marked by oozing, red rashes, inflammation, and heat sensation. Approach clears heat and dampness.

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Blood-Deficiency, Wind-Dryness Type (θ‘€θ™›ι’¨η‡₯)

Dry, powdery, flaky skin. Nourishes blood and restores moisture.

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Spleen-Deficiency Type (θ„Ύθ™›εž‹)

Sensitive digestion and food triggers. Regulates digestion and absorption together.

Main Symptoms

Skin Symptoms
  1. Severe itch (especially at night)
  2. Red rashes, oozing, crusts
  3. Dryness, flaking, cracking
  4. Skin thickening from scratching (lichenification)
  5. Often on the face, neck, inner elbows, and behind the knees
Associated Symptoms
  1. Sleep deprivation and irritability from itching
  2. Coexisting allergic rhinitis or asthma
  3. Sensitive digestion, constipation or diarrhea
  4. Fatigue and reduced concentration
  5. Worsening under stress

Osundosun's Approach to Atopy

Constitution and Overall Condition Come First

Even with the same diagnosis, the causes and triggers differ from person to person. Drawing on long clinical experience in constitutional care, we first assess each person's condition.

Our Solution:
Based on Vice-Director Oh Eun-jeong's 35 years of clinical experience in constitutional medicine, we prescribe herbal formulas tailored to each patient's constitution and symptom pattern, along with acupuncture or pharmacopuncture when needed. All formulas are freshly prepared in our on-site herbal dispensary.
I'm on steroids β€” can I still receive Korean medicine care?
Yes, concurrent care is possible. In acute flares, necessary treatments are maintained while Korean medicine works on fundamental skin and immune recovery. Abrupt discontinuation is not recommended; we guide you based on your individual condition.
How long does care take?
Depending on severity and history, care can take several months or more. Atopy is not a short-term condition; consistent care combined with lifestyle improvements is essential.

Daily Care Guidance

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Moisturizing

Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes after bathing β€” a basic step for barrier recovery.

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Temperature & Humidity

Keep indoor temperature around 22Β°C and humidity at 50–60%. Avoid overheating and dryness.

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Diet Management

Identify individual triggers. Cut back on processed foods, added sugar, and refined carbohydrates.

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Sleep & Stress

Sleep loss and stress are clear aggravators. A regular routine matters.

Atopy calls for a fresh look at the body's balance.

Suppressing the skin alone rarely prevents recurrence.
A root-level approach that addresses constitution and lifestyle together offers a longer path to recovery.

Osundosun Korean Medicine Clinic walks with you through long-standing atopy.