Atopic dermatitis – also known as atopic eczema – is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects millions of people. It is characterized by dry, irritated, itchy skin that often becomes flaky, inflamed, or even cracked. Many sufferers are looking for alternative or complementary therapies, as conventional treatments such as cortisone or immunomodulators often only work for a short time or are associated with side effects. This is where PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is increasingly gaining attention as a natural, regenerative therapy.
What makes PRP interesting for atopic dermatitis?
PRP is extracted from the patient's own blood and is rich in growth factors, anti-inflammatory proteins, and regenerative signals. These properties make it an exciting approach in the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions. Unlike chemical agents, PRP does not suppress symptoms, but rather supports the skin's ability to repair itself—exactly what is necessary for a compromised skin barrier, such as in atopic dermatitis.
How does PRP work on sensitive, neurodermatitic skin?
The skin of people with atopic dermatitis is severely impaired in its protective function. It loses moisture more quickly, reacts hypersensitively to environmental stimuli, and is more susceptible to infections. PRP targets precisely these weak points:
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It promotes the formation of new, healthy skin cells.
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It supports the reconstruction of the skin barrier.
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It soothes inflammation and reduces itching.
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It improves microcirculation, which increases the supply to the skin cells.
Because PRP is made from the body's own material, it is particularly well tolerated – a key advantage for sensitive skin that often reacts irritably to creams or medications.
Where are the limits?
It's important to note that PRP is not a standard treatment for atopic dermatitis. The underlying inflammatory disease cannot be "cured" – but PRP can help alleviate acute flare-ups or support skin regeneration after a flare-up. PRP can also be a useful complementary treatment for patients suffering from treatment-resistant dry skin or small areas of eczema.
However, in severe cases with widespread inflammation or bacterial superinfection, PRP is not the first choice. In these cases, treatment should be tailored to the individual in consultation with a specialist.
Application and process
PRP is prepared after a blood draw and either injected selectively into the affected areas or applied over a large area using microneedling. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, is relatively painless, and involves little downtime. Initial effects often appear within a few days; for lasting improvement, several sessions spaced a few weeks apart are usually recommended.
Conclusion
PRP offers a promising way to naturally support skin health in cases of atopic dermatitis. It helps strengthen the barrier function, relieve inflammation, and stimulate skin regeneration – all without chemical additives. For many sufferers, PRP can therefore be a gentle yet effective complement to traditional atopic dermatitis therapy – especially when other methods have been exhausted or the skin is very sensitive.
