Itchy, flaky, irritated skin that just won’t quit? Yep, we’re talking about dermatitis—the ultimate party crasher for your complexion.
Whether it pops up as dry red patches on your cheeks, tiny bumps around your mouth, or scaly spots on your scalp, dermatitis has a sneaky way of showing up uninvited — and overstaying its welcome. But don’t stress! While it can be stubborn, it’s totally manageable with the right mix of TLC, skincare know-how, and expert help.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what dermatitis is, what causes it, and (most importantly) what you can do to calm it down. From skincare tips to the best facials in Christchurch, consider this your ultimate cheat sheet to happier, healthier skin.
Let’s dive in — and show dermatitis the door.
What is Dermatitis?
Dermatitis is basically your skin’s way of saying, “Hey! Something’s not right!”
It’s an umbrella term for inflammation of the skin and can show up as redness, itching, dryness, or irritation. And while it’s not contagious (phew!), it can definitely cramp your style, AND your confidence.
Good news? With the right care, you can calm the chaos and get your glow back.
Types of Dermatitis and What They Look Like
Not all dermatitis is created equal. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): The OG of dry, itchy skin. Often starts in childhood and loves to hang out behind knees, elbows, and on the face.
- Contact Dermatitis: Skin drama caused by something it doesn’t like. Think: metals, perfumes, or that new laundry detergent.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: Flaky, greasy patches on your scalp or face (hello, surprise dandruff!).
- Perioral Dermatitis: Red bumps around the mouth or nose, ccommon in women and easily mistaken for acne.
- Dyshidrotic Dermatitis: Itchy little blisters on the hands and feet, often flaring up from stress or allergies.
So… What Causes Dermatitis?
It’s a mix of nature and nurture. You could have inherited sensitive skin from Mum, or maybe you’re reacting to that “all-natural” soap you just bought.
Other common symptoms and causes of dermatitis include:
- Harsh skincare products
- Weather changes (cold snaps, we’re looking at you)
- Stress (yep, it strikes again)
- Allergens or irritants (like metals, dust, or fragrance)
Not sure what’s setting your skin off? A personalised skin consultation at Lovoir can help uncover the triggers and find your calm.
Dermatitis vs. Eczema vs. Psoriasis: What’s the Difference?
We know what some of you are probably thinking: Is dermatitis the same as psoarias or eczema?
Understandable. These three skin conditions often get lumped together as the “dry, itchy” skin conditions, BUT they’re actually not the same. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Dermatitis is a broad term that includes any kind of skin inflammation. Eczema and psoriasis are both types of dermatitis, but with different causes and symptoms.
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) is the most common form. It usually starts in childhood and is linked to genetics and allergies. It’s super itchy and often flares up in response to triggers like stress or weather.
- Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes thick, scaly patches of skin—often on the elbows, knees, or scalp. Unlike eczema, it’s not typically triggered by allergens but by immune system dysfunction.
All three can cause redness, itching, and dryness, but they require slightly different approaches to care.
The good news? Many of the same skincare tips and treatments can help manage symptoms across all of them – which brings us to the next point!
What Actually Helps Dermatitis?
Managing dermatitis is like managing curly hair – it takes patience, the right products, and a solid routine. Here’s what works:
- Moisturise like it’s your job: A rich, creamy moisturiser helps restore your skin barrier and keep dryness at bay.
- Topical relief: Steroid or non-steroid creams can calm inflammation during flare-ups—ask your GP or derm for the best one.
- Professional help: Treatments like calming facials can do wonders. Don’t worry, we’ll break down our top recommended facials later on in this article!
- Lifestyle tweaks: Avoid known triggers, manage stress, and wear soft, breathable fabrics.
📅 Need a tailored plan? Book your skin consultation at Lovoir Day Spa Christchurch. Your skin will thank you.
5 Skincare Tips to Keep Dermatitis at Bay
- Go gentle or go home: Say no to foaming cleansers, grainy scrubs, or alcohol-based toners. Look for gentle, fragrance-free formulas.
- Lock it in: Apply your moisturiser within 3 minutes of washing—this locks in the water before it can evaporate.
- Know your no-no’s: Avoid essential oils, scented products, and aggressive treatments during flare-ups.
- Build a barrier: Use products rich in ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide to reinforce your skin’s natural shield.
- When in doubt, cool it down: Wet wraps, cool compresses, and soothing facials are your go-to when your skin’s in SOS mode.
Best Facials for Dermatitis (That Your Skin Will Love)
You don’t need to avoid facials just because your skin is flaring up. In fact, if you’re living with dermatitis, your skin deserves more than just care — it deserves healing!
At Lovoir Day Spa, we offer ultra-gentle, skin-soothing treatments. And they aren’t just relaxing; they’re designed to help restore and strengthen sensitive, inflamed skin.
LED Light Therapy Facial
A gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses red and blue light to accelerate healing, reduce redness, and soothe irritation. It’s ideal for calming flare-ups and improving skin health over time — especially for eczema and rosacea sufferers.
Book LED Light Therapy Facial here
Vitamin Infusion Facial
A powerful hydration boost using cryotherapy or thermal therapy to infuse targeted serums deep into the skin. This facial replenishes moisture, calms inflammation, and supports skin barrier repair, making it perfect for stressed, dry, and reactive skin.
Book Vitamin Infusion Facial here
PRIN Lymphatic Therapy Facial
Now, for those recovering from a dermatitis flare-up (remember, NOT during active dermatitis), the PRIN Lymphatic Therapy Facial is a good option!
Designed to support detoxification and reduce inflammation, the PRIN Facial uses a tightening mask filled with botanical ingredients to increase blood flow and calm the skin. It’s a wonderful option for soothing chronic redness, puffiness, and flare-ups, while delivering essential nutrients to support healing.
Book PRIN Lymphatic Therapy Facial here
These are some of the best Lovoir facials for dermatitis. Just let our team know your skin condition, and we’ll help recommend the right one for you – customising it if needed to keep your skin calm and you comfy!
Best Skincare Products for Dermatitis
You don’t need a 12-step routine. Just a few skin-loving staples:
- Cleanser: A gentle cream or gel cleanser with no fragrance.
- Moisturiser: Think thick, rich, and loaded with ceramides or shea butter.
- Serum: Niacinamide or hyaluronic acid to hydrate and protect.
- SPF: Always wear a broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreen—even when it’s cloudy.
Luckily for you, Lovoir doesn’t just offer facial treatments for dermatitis – we care a range of skincare products too!
Shop skincare for sensitive skin online or ask our therapists in-store for personalised recommendations.
Visit Lovoir Day Spa for Dermatitis-Friendly Facials & Products
Ready to stop scratching and start glowing? At Lovoir Day Spa, we understand the ups and downs of living with dermatitis, and we’re here to help.
Our therapists are trained in advanced, sensitive-skin treatments that heal, hydrate, and protect. So whether you’re booking a one-off facial or starting a long-term skin journey, we’ve got the expertise and gentle touch your skin deserves.
Book your facial or consultation today at Lovoir
Explore our full range of facials tailored for every skin need.
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Learn More About Dermatitis
Want more background on this skin condition? Check out these trusted resources:
- Mayo Clinic: Symptoms and Causes of Dermatitis
- American Academy of Dermatology: Professional Advice on Managing Eczema
- National Eczema Association: Types and Treatments
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