The management of atopic dermatitis involves treating any current outbreaks and preventing future outbreaks of atopic dermatitis. There is no cure for atopic dermatitis of any type of eczema. Therefore, management of atopic dermatitis is a part of the lifestyle of someone with atopic dermatitis.

Treating outbreaks includes treating the rash and stopping the allergic reaction that caused the rash. If someone knows what allergen has caused the atopic dermatitis, stopping the allergic reaction includes avoiding contact with that substance. An antihistamine may be used to stop the allergic reaction that has caused the flare-up of atopic dermatitis.

An atopic dermatitis rash is an irritated, inflamed area that often has flaking, feeling skin. Treating the rash can be done with medicated ointment. Corticosteroid cream has been commonly used to decrease the inflammation and stop the allergic reaction. There are newer medicated creams such as Elidel that are often used. Other eczema medications or forms of medications such as injections or oral medications may be prescribed to treat current outbreaks.

For the dry skin, people with atopic dermatitis are encouraged to make a regular routine of applying liberal amounts of moisturizer. Whether the person with eczema has a current outbreak or not, keeping the skin hydrated is extremely important. Hydrating the skin with moisturizers or emollients treats the dry skin of a current rash and also helps prevent future outbreaks of atopic dermatitis. Drinking plenty of water every day can also help the skin recover from dehydration and prevent future dehydration.

Management of atopic dermatitis does not stop after current outbreaks have been successfully treated. Though not every future outbreak may be prevented, people with eczema can reduce the risk of future outbreaks. Other than keeping skin hydrated, people with eczema should avoid contact with harsh soaps, cleaning agents, and chemicals. Excessive bathing should be avoided, especially with hot water which tends to dry out the skin.

Some people with atopic dermatitis find it helpful to avoid contact with certain foods. Handling dairy products, shellfish, nuts, and other foods may trigger atopic dermatitis in some people. Avoiding use of moisturizers, bubble bath, and other hygiene products with fragrance helps some people as fragrances can be very irritating to the skin. Cigarette smoke and excessive coffee consumption can trigger outbreaks of atopic dermatitis. If someone with atopic dermatitis has to handle a substance that may trigger a flare-up of atopic dermatitis, the person should use protective gloves.