Neurodermatitis (atopic dermatitis) is a common, chronic skin disease in children. Typical symptoms include dry, irritated skin, severe itching and recurring flare-ups. Many families are familiar with the problem: although cortisone creams often help well, they should not be used permanently if possible. Gentle, well-tolerated supplements are therefore being sought.
This pilot study investigated whether a seawater spray with a salt content of 2.1% can help children with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. The children sprayed the product onto the affected areas of skin twice a day for four weeks.
The result was very positive: most of the children’s skin symptoms improved significantly. Skin hydration also increased and the skin barrier stabilized, which is important because atopic dermatitis skin loses a lot of moisture. In addition, many parents reported a noticeable improvement in quality of life, e.g. less itching and better sleep.
The spray was generally well tolerated. Some children experienced a slight burning or itching sensation shortly after application – especially where the skin was already sore.
Conclusion: A seawater spray can gently support atopic dermatitis flare-ups in children – as a supplement to the usual care.
Background
Atopic dermatitis (neurodermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that often begins in childhood. It is characterized by a disturbed skin barrier, dry skin, itching and recurring bouts of inflammation. Scratching often exacerbates the inflammation and skin damage, creating a stressful cycle.
Traditional therapies such as corticosteroids or antihistamines can alleviate symptoms, but are not ideal for long-term use due to possible side effects. Supplementary measures that are as natural as possible are therefore being investigated to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.
Seawater is discussed as a potentially helpful measure in this context. It contains a large number of minerals and trace elements and is associated in the literature with inflammation-modulating and antioxidant effects.
Aim of the study
The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and safety of a 2.1% seawater spray in children with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis flare-ups. In addition, it was to be tested whether the quality of life improves.
Study design and implementation
This was a prospective, longitudinal, uncontrolled pilot study over 28 days. It was applied at least twice daily (morning and evening) to the affected skin areas.
The study was conducted in a pediatric setting in Madrid. Children aged 3 to 14 years with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis flare-ups were included.
The product used is described as cold microfiltered seawater according to the René Quinton protocol. It contains a mixture of electrolytes and trace elements (e.g. sodium, chloride, magnesium, potassium, calcium, copper, zinc) as well as additional organic components such as certain vitamins.
Evaluated parameters
The effectiveness was measured using several established metrics:
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SCORAD as a clinical severity index for atopic dermatitis
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TEWL (trans-epidermal water loss) as a measure of the skin barrier
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Skin moisture (corneometer measurement)
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Quality of life via the IDQoL questionnaire (Infants’ Dermatitis Quality of Life Index)
Results
1) Skin symptoms improved significantly
The severity of atopic dermatitis decreased in most children within two weeks and continued to improve until the end of the study.
2) Skin barrier and moisture became more stable
The measured values for skin moisture and water loss via the skin also showed a significant improvement. This indicates that the skin barrier was able to recover – a key factor in atopic dermatitis.
3) Quality of life increased
A particularly practical effect: the quality of life of the children and families improved significantly. This is very important in the case of neurodermatitis, as itching and sleep problems are often a major burden on everyday life.
4) Good tolerance with few restrictions
The spray was generally well tolerated. Some of the children felt itchy for a short time after application, especially on areas of skin that were already damaged.
Classification and limitations of the study
The authors emphasize that this is a pilot study without a control group. This means that improvements could also be partly influenced by natural fluctuations in the disease or by accompanying care. Nevertheless, the results are very interesting because several independent measures point in the same direction (symptoms, barrier, moisture, quality of life).
Conclusion
The study concludes that a 2.1% seawater spray can improve skin symptoms, stabilize the skin barrier and improve quality of life in children with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis flare-ups over a four-week period. It is suitable as a well-tolerated complementary measure in the treatment of this common disease.