Atopic dermatitis treatment offers many options to choose from, including self care methods and medications. However, none of these options is a cure. Most sufferers will need to try treatments individually in order to see if it works for them. The treatment in this case is generally directed towards controlling the inching and the rashes, as well as preventing the flare ups.

The most common treatment approach is combining moisturizers and corticosteroid medications.

It might be a good idea to take short showers and baths, such as 3-5 minutes long. If the skin is exposed to warm water for a long time, the water will wash out the natural protective skin oils, causing the skin to dry up. Another good idea might be using a natural moisturizer at the time of taking a bath or a shower, as well as using an emollient after washing.

It’s very important to avoid using any harsh soap, such as the ones with fragrances or colors. Your best bet is either using all-natural products, or avoiding the use of any soaps whatsoever (plain water is enough to cleanse your skin well).

You need to also try to avoid harsh linens, towels, and clothes, as well as anything else that may scratch your skin. In addition, try to avoid dust, and wash bed linens often to avoid dust mites.

The dietary recommendations include avoiding: wheat, milk, peanuts, eggs, and soy products.

It’s advised to keep your fingernails short and smoothly filed, as it will help you not to damage the affected areas even more.

Some people report that topical coal tar medications help them to alleviate the itching. Other atopic dermatitis treatment suggestions for alleviating the itch include: Aveeno oatmeal products and antihistamines (medicines that treat allergies by suppressing the effects of the histamine).

Topical steroid creams (hydrocortisone, etc.) are another good treatment choice. These medications come in all forms, including creams, lotions, and ointments. However, you should not abuse topical corticosteroid medications, and only use them when you have a flare up or strong itching.

Relatively new medications that are considered to be very effective for atopic dermatitis treatment, and approved by the FDA, for people older than 2 years old are: Protopic (Tacrolimus) and Elidel (Pimecrolimus). Both of these medications suppress Calcineurin – the stimulator of the immune T cells, which are responsible for the inflammation, redness, and itching of the affected areas. The worst (very rare) side-effects of these treatments may include certain cancers, so it’s better to try them only if you have already tried other medications and were not satisfied.

After trying several treatment methods, a sufferer can find a medication that will work well particularly for them.

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