Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Home treatment for atopic dermatitis includes taking care of your skin and avoiding things that irritate it.

Take care of your skin

• Keep your skin hydrated through Reference bathing in warm (not hot) water and applying moisturizer right afterwards.

  Reference Reference Atopic Dermatitis: Taking Care of Your Skin

• Avoid things that irritate a rash or make it worse, such as soaps that dry the skin, perfumes, and scratchy clothing or bedding.
• Avoid possible Reference allergens Opens New Window that cause a rash or make a rash worse, such as dust mites, animal dander, and certain Reference foods.

Control itching and scratching

• Keep your fingernails trimmed and filed smooth to help prevent damaging the skin when you scratch it.
• Use protective dressings to keep from rubbing the affected area. Put mittens or cotton socks on your baby's hands to help prevent him or her from scratching the area.
• Try Reference coal tar preparations. When applied to the skin, they may help reduce itching. But if your itching gets worse after using coal star, stop using it.

Avoid sun and stress

• Exposure to natural sunlight can be helpful for atopic dermatitis, but it is important to avoid sunburn. Too much sun, sweating, and/or getting too hot also can irritate the skin. When you use a sunscreen, choose one for sensitive skin.
• Reduce stress to help your skin and keep rashes from getting worse. Try Reference relaxation techniques, Reference behavior modification Opens New Window, or Reference biofeedback. Reference Massage therapy is also helpful, especially in children.

Reference Reference Stress Management: Breathing Exercises for Relaxation

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.