You know, I’ve had eczema since I was a kid and honestly, it’s all about keeping your skin moisturized! I slap on tons of moisturizer whenever my skin feels dry. And yeah, trying not to scratch is tough but really helps. Sometimes, when it gets really bad, my doctor prescribes a cream. It soothes the itching pretty quick. I’ve heard about things like light treatment from my doc, but never tried it myself.

Overview of Eczema Treatment Options

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Treatment aims to heal the affected skin and prevent flare-ups of symptoms. Here’s an in-depth look at the most effective eczema treatments currently available.

Moisturizing

One of the fundamental treatments for eczema is regular use of moisturizers. Keeping the skin moist helps reduce dryness, itching, and irritation. A thick, cream-based moisturizer is usually recommended, and it should be applied several times a day, especially after bathing while the skin is still damp.

Topical Corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids are medicines used to reduce redness and inflammation. They range from mild to very strong and should be used as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Long-term use can cause side effects like thinning of the skin, so they should be used cautiously.

Crisaborole (Eucrisa)

Crisaborole is a nonsteroidal ointment approved for treating mild to moderate eczema in patients two years of age and older. It works by blocking certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation in the skin.

Phototherapy

For severe eczema cases, phototherapy has been shown to be effective. This involves exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision. Repeated sessions can significantly improve symptoms but may increase the risk of skin cancer in the long term.

Biologic Drugs

Dupilumab (Dupixent) is a biologic medication approved for individuals age 6 years and older with moderate to severe eczema. It works by targeting a specific protein that contributes to inflammation, which can significantly reduce or even clear symptoms.