Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Treatment

Skin Care at Home

You and your doctor should discuss the best treatment plan and medications for your atopic dermatitis. But taking care of your skin at home may reduce the need for prescription medications. Some recommendations include 

• Relieve the itch by using a moisturizer.
• Antihistamines may help reduce severe itching.
• Your health care provider may recommend topical steroids.  These should not be used for more than 3 months without taking a break.
• Keep your fingernails cut short. Consider light gloves if nighttime scratching is a problem.
• Lubricate or moisturize the skin two to three times a day using ointments such as petroleum jelly. Moisturizers should be free of alcohol, scents, dyes, fragrances, parabens, and other skin-irritating chemicals. A humidifier in the home also can help if kept clean.
• Avoid anything that worsens symptoms, including
  • Irritants such as wool and lanolin (an oily substance derived from sheep wool used in some moisturizers and cosmetics)
  • Strong soaps or detergents
  • Sudden changes in body temperature and stress, which may cause sweating
• When washing or bathing
  • Keep water contact as brief as possible and use gentle body washes and cleansers instead of regular soaps. Some evidence suggests water alone may be just as effective as water and soaps. Lukewarm baths are better than long, hot baths.
  • Do not scrub or dry the skin too hard or for too long.
  • After bathing, apply lubricating ointments to damp skin. This will help trap moisture in the skin.