Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes inflamed, itchy, and red patches on the skin. Treatments aim to manage symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and improve skin health. Here are common eczema treatments:

1. Topical Treatments

• Moisturizers: Regularly applying emollients or thick moisturizers (e.g., ceramide-rich creams) helps restore the skin barrier and retain moisture.
• Topical Corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory creams or ointments help reduce redness and itching during flare-ups.
• Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors (e.g., Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus): Non-steroidal treatments that reduce inflammation and are often used for sensitive areas like the face.
• Topical PDE4 Inhibitors (e.g., Crisaborole): Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory creams used to treat mild to moderate eczema.

2. Systemic Treatments (for severe cases)

• Oral Corticosteroids: Used short-term to control severe flare-ups, but long-term use is avoided due to side effects.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., Cyclosporine, Methotrexate): For severe, resistant eczema that does not respond to topical treatments.
• Biologics (e.g., Dupilumab): An injectable treatment targeting specific immune pathways involved in eczema.

3. Light Therapy (Phototherapy)

• UVB Light Therapy: Controlled exposure to ultraviolet B light can help reduce inflammation and improve skin symptoms.

4. Lifestyle and Home Remedies

• Bathing: Short lukewarm baths followed by immediate moisturizing to lock in hydration.
• Avoiding Triggers: Common triggers include harsh soaps, fragrances, allergens, and stress. Identifying and avoiding these can help reduce flare-ups.
• Wet Wrap Therapy: Applying moisturizer and wrapping the skin with a damp layer of gauze or clothing to hydrate and soothe the skin.

5. Antihistamines

• Oral Antihistamines: Can help relieve itching, especially at night, and improve sleep.

6. Antibiotics (for infected eczema)

• If eczema becomes infected, oral or topical antibiotics may be needed to treat bacterial infections.

7. Probiotics and Dietary Changes

• Some studies suggest that taking probiotics and maintaining a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods may help reduce symptoms in certain individuals.