Treating atopic dermatitis isn’t just about the skin—it’s about restoring balance and health to the entire body. The changes that appear on the skin during treatment are not merely “symptoms,” but can actually be signs that the body is beginning to heal. When patients understand this process in advance, they can approach temporary flares or changes with calmness and confidence, allowing the treatment to progress more smoothly.
1. Itching: It may decrease—or suddenly worsen
One of the first changes patients notice after starting treatment is itching. Most people begin to experience less itching as acupuncture and herbal medicine start working. However, external triggers like food, stress, or weather changes can sometimes cause temporary flare-ups.
For patients who have used steroids long-term, the itching can initially get worse due to rebound effects. This is a common detox reaction, as the body pushes toxins out through the skin. As the body purifies, the itching gradually subsides.
2. Oozing: A sign that toxins are being released
When the skin barrier is weakened and inflammation worsens, oozing can occur. This is especially common when inflammation that was suppressed by steroids becomes active again. Although the amount of oozing may temporarily increase, this is a sign that the body is pushing out built-up waste.
Oozing is often followed by the formation of dry scales, and the cycle may repeat a few times. Over time, the fluid becomes clearer, lessens in amount, and eventually stops as the skin begins to regenerate.
3. Redness and flaking: A natural cycle of healing
Red patches, or erythema, occur when blood vessels dilate due to inflammation. Many patients hope their red skin will magically disappear overnight, but in reality, the process is gradual.
In atopic skin, redness and flaking repeat in cycles. Red areas develop flakes, which fall off, and the redness reappears. Through these repeated cycles, the redness fades, the flakes become thinner, and the skin returns to its natural colour and texture.
4. Lichenification: Shedding the old protective layer
Long-term itching and scratching can lead to thick, leathery skin—a condition known as lichenification. This is the skin’s defence mechanism. With proper treatment, the affected area begins to flake and shed, becoming gradually thinner and softer.
Just like an insect sheds its old shell, lichenified skin peels away layer by layer, revealing smoother, more hydrated skin underneath.
5. Hyperpigmentation: The final stage of recovery
Dark patches left behind by repeated inflammation, oozing, and scratching are known as hyperpigmentation. Like the other stages, this too fades with time.
In some cases, the pigmented area may initially appear to spread before the colour lightens. In others, the area simply becomes smaller and fades. Either way, this is a normal part of recovery—not a sign that the treatment isn’t working.
What To Be Careful Of
During these changes, it’s very important not to scratch, peel, or pick at the skin. Doing so may interfere with the healing process and cause further irritation.
In Closing
The skin may be our outermost organ, but it reflects what’s happening inside—our immune function, circulation, and detox pathways. That’s why skin changes aren’t just surface issues, but signs that deep healing is underway.
Symptoms like itching, oozing, redness, flaking, and pigmentation are all natural steps on the journey to recovery from atopic dermatitis. In fact, the more active these skin changes are, the faster recovery tends to occur. Don’t fear these shifts—understand them as your body’s messages, and trust the healing process.
At our clinic, we walk with each patient through every step of this journey, offering personalised care and unwavering support. Healing from atopic dermatitis takes time, but with trust and patience, clear and healthy skin is within reach.
[Learn More] | [Contact Us] | [Follow Us on Instagram @eczemapsoriasisclinic]
