The type of eczema known as atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition of recurring itchy, inflamed rashes. These rashes are thought to be triggered by an allergen. Someone with atopic dermatitis has an oversensitive immune system that mistakes harmless substances for threats to the body. Atopic dermatitis treatments include medicated ointments, antihistamines, corticosteroid injections, as well as home treatment for atopic dermatitis.

One kind of treatment for atopic dermatitis is the use of medicated creams. Prescription strength corticosteroid cream is often used to decrease the inflammation and itchiness. Other prescription medicated creams are prescribed frequently. Elidel and Protopic are medicated creams that suppress the immune system’s overreaction at the site of the rash.

Stopping the immune system’s allergic reaction is key to treating atopic dermatitis. Another treatment for atopic dermatitis is antihistamines to stop the allergic reaction that has triggered the atopic dermatitis. Other medical treatments such as corticosteroid injections or ointments containing coal tar may be prescribed in some cases.

Some home remedies are used as atopic dermatitis treatments. Some people apply pastes made from mashed papaya seeds or turmeric. One home remedy for atopic dermatitis is taking turmeric supplements. Shortening can be applied to the skin after bathing to help lock in moisture.

Keeping the skin moisturized is part of treatment for atopic dermatitis. The atopic dermatitis rashes cause severely dry skin. Applying moisturizer after bathing and occasionally throughout the day can help treat the atopic dermatitis rash. When using medicated creams, moisturizer can still be used but should not be used immediately before or after application of the medicated cream.

Prevention of future outbreaks is part of atopic dermatitis treatment since there is no cure and this condition is recurrent. Skin that becomes dehydrated is more susceptible to flare-ups of atopic dermatitis. To help prevent future outbreaks of atopic dermatitis, the person should avoid products that dry out or may irritate the skin. Avoiding harsh detergents and soaps are suggested. Perfumed moisturizers or other perfumed personal hygiene products can irritate the skin and make someone susceptible to an atopic dermatitis rash.

People with atopic dermatitis should discuss their treatment options with their doctors. Before using a home remedy for atopic dermatitis, a person should consult the physician. Many products are sold that claim to be cures for atopic dermatitis. These should be avoided since there is no cure for atopic dermatitis and the safety of these false cures may be suspect.