Atopic dermatitis (eczema): clear steps to feel better
Atopic dermatitis—often called eczema—means your skin gets dry, itchy, and inflamed. It can show up at any age and bother you every day. This guide focuses on what triggers flares, simple at-home care, and when to get medical help. Read on for practical tips you can use right away.
What commonly causes flares?
Triggers vary by person, but the usual suspects are dry skin, harsh soaps, heat or sweating, certain fabrics (wool and rough textiles), stress, and allergens like dust mites or pet dander. Even small changes—like a new detergent or seasonal humidity drop—can cause a flare. Notice patterns: keep a short log for a week to spot what sets off your symptoms.
Skin barrier problems are central. When the barrier is weak, moisture escapes and irritants get in. That makes skin red, cracked and itchy. Fixing the barrier is the first step to controlling flares.
Practical daily care
Bathing: take short lukewarm showers or baths. Avoid hot water and long soaks. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser or plain oil-based cleansers. Pat skin dry—don’t rub. Apply moisturizer within three minutes to trap moisture.
Moisturizers: use a thick emollient or ointment (petrolatum, glycerin-based creams) twice daily and after washing. Choose fragrance-free products labeled for sensitive skin. If one product stops working, try a bland ointment at night; it often helps repair the skin barrier faster.
Clothing and laundry: wear soft cotton next to skin. Wash new clothes before wearing. Use mild, fragrance-free detergent and skip fabric softeners that can irritate. On cold days, layer to avoid overheating and sweating, which can trigger itching.
Itch control: try cool compresses and distraction techniques. Over-the-counter oral antihistamines can help with night itching for some people, but they won’t fix inflammation. Trim nails and use cotton gloves for kids at night to prevent skin damage from scratching.
When to use medicated treatments: for red, angry patches that don’t improve with moisturizers, topical prescription treatments help. Low to medium potency topical steroids reduce inflammation. Non-steroid creams like topical calcineurin inhibitors work for delicate areas (face, neck). Follow your doctor’s instructions and use the lowest effective dose.
Severe or persistent cases: if you have widespread eczema, skin infections, or major sleep problems, see a dermatologist. Newer injections (biologics) and light therapy can work well for moderate-to-severe cases that don’t respond to creams.
Quick action matters. Treat dryness daily, avoid known triggers, and get medical help when over-the-counter steps fail. With the right routine, most people lower flare frequency and keep skin calmer most of the time.
