Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition of the skin that affects 18 million people. It is a common type of eczema which is characterized by a persistent itch and dry skin. Finding good atopic dermatitis treatment options is extremely important to manage symptoms. Untreated atopic dermatitis will continue to itch and result in ore scratching. And scratching is the main reason for infection.

Effective treatment does not only help you achieve a higher quality of life but get better sleep as well. Both are extremely important to reduce the stress that results in increased flare-ups.

• OTC Products

There are several products and medicines for atopic dermatitis that are easily available and do not need any prescription as well.

• Moisturizers

Moisturizing is an effective treatment of AD. It lets to get rid of dry skin. Apply moisturizer just after taking a bath so that the skin absorbs the same when it is still damp. There are three kinds of moisturizers available in the market to treat the symptoms of the AD. These are lotions, creams, and ointments.

• Topical Steroid

Low potency topical corticosteroids which are used for short-term treatment are available over the counter in any grocery or drugstore. These are low-strength hydrocortisone creams such as Nutracort and Cortaid. You can apply hydrocortisone immediately after applying moisturizer. It helps to treat flare-up very efficiently.

• Oral Antihistamines

OTC oral antihistamines are known to supplement topical treatment of atopic dermatitis. An antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is quite effective to manage the itch-scratch cycle. The sedative effect of this drug also allows you to have a good night’s sleep.

• Prescription Medications

If the OTC options are not proving helpful to you anymore then you can surely visit a doctor and start taking prescription drugs. There are different topical steroids available on prescription ranging from class 1 to class 7 as per potency. There are topical calcineurin inhibitors available as well, which are quite new on the market. They are not steroids but can effectively treat itching and rash. Two of the TCIs available now on prescription is tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel). There are injectable anti-inflammatories like dupilumab (Dupixent) that can be used to treat AD. Doctors may also suggest oral medicines as well.