#49 - Understanding Atopic Dermatitis in Skin of Color

This is the first episode of our 5 part series in collaboration with the Allergy & Asthma Network about atopic dermatitis in skin of color.

In the first episode, we are going to talk about atopic dermatitis (AD) in people with skin of color. Atopic dermatitis affects everyone differently, which means it does not look the same on everyone or in every skin color. It is important to recognize this and to raise awareness on how AD impacts certain populations differently than others.

Along with Kortney, Dr. G will be sharing her expertise as an allergist and will be overviewing the basics of AD. Special guest Shiv Sewlal shares her personal experiences with atopic dermatitis.

What we cover in this episode

• Why are we doing a podcast series about atopic dermatitis (AD) in people with skin of color?

• What is atopic dermatitis?

• Is eczema the same thing as atopic dermatitis?

• What is the difference between child onset versus adult-onset atopic dermatitis? Can you develop AD as an adult?

• Why is atopic dermatitis more prominent in people with skin of color?

• How can housing impact your skin?

• Why air conditioning can be helpful for people with atopic dermatitis.

• Why is atopic dermatitis underdiagnosed in patients with skin of color?

• What are the symptoms of AD in different skin colors?

• What are triggers? How do these make atopic dermatitis worse?

• How does mental health impact atopic dermatitis?

• What is the itch-scratch cycle?

• Who should you see if you think you have atopic dermatitis?

From Shiv

• Shiv shares what her atopic dermatitis looks like

• Shiv and her mom’s experience with therapy to help with her skincare

Helpful Resources

• All our past atopic dermatitis episodes: https://www.itchpodcast.com/eczema

• More about Shiv: https://www.instagram.com/shivaika/

• "What is eczema" from Allergy & Asthma Network: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-eczema/