Available Eczema Treatments

There is no cure for eczema, but many treatments are available and more are on the horizon. In fact, there is currently an unprecedented number of new treatments for eczema in development. Some people with eczema find potential treatment by participating in clinical trials, the scientific process of developing new drug therapies. To learn more about these potential new therapies, visit Treatments in Development and visit our New Treatments page to see the latest FDA approvals.

Depending on the type of eczema and severity, treatments include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter (OTC) remedies or prescription medication. Eczema symptoms can be different for everyone. Not everyone will respond to the same treatment plan in the same way, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with all of the options and consult with your healthcare provider to find a treatment regimen that works for you or your child.

For most types of eczema, managing the condition and its symptoms comes down to these basics:

Know your triggers;
Implement a regular bathing and moisturizing routine;
Use over-the-counter (OTC) and/or prescription medications consistently and as prescribed;
Watch for signs of skin infection — pus-filled bumps, pain, redness or heat.

Some other things you can do to help manage eczema symptoms: Cultivate a care team of healthcare providers to help you find the right treatment. Find an eczema expert in your area through NEA’s Provider Finder.

Try not to scratch and rub the affected skin — and limit contact with materials or substances that may irritate your skin and anywhere you are likely to flare-up. Dress in soft, breathable clothing and avoid itchy fabrics like wool that can further irritate your eczema. Avoid fabric detergents with known allergens. Recognize stressful situations and events — and learn to avoid or cope with them by using techniques for stress management. You may do this on your own or with the help of a trusted healthcare provider.

However, some people find that even when they do all the “right” things, their eczema still flares. Eczema (sometimes called “atopic eczema”) can be an unpredictable disease, and there is much still to learn about it. Having an eczema flare out of the blue is common and can happen despite your best efforts. Allergic reactions to environmental triggers can also lead to an eczema flare up (leading to “contact dermatitis” in some situations). For all treatments, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to weigh the benefits vs. the risks to determine whether it is right for you.

Over-the-counter treatments for eczema

OTC eczema remedies are topical and oral medications you can buy without a prescription. You can find a range of OTC treatments that help with eczema symptoms such as itch, redness, irritation or rash. Other OTC treatments can help prevent flares and assist with sleep when night-time itch is keeping you awake. Many OTC products are available in both brand-name or generic forms.

Things to consider with OTC products

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decides whether a medicine is safe enough to sell over the counter. However, using OTC medicines still has potential risks. Some interact with other prescription or OTC medicines, supplements, foods or beverages. Others cause problems for people with certain medical conditions. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any OTC medicines for eczema.

It’s important to correctly follow directions for OTC medicines and be careful when administering them to children. You should never take OTC eczema drugs for longer durations or in higher doses than the product label recommends.

Antihistamines and Pain Relievers

Atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common form of eczema is part of what’s known as the atopic triad (eczema, allergies and asthma). In fact, people with AD have a greater chance of developing comorbidities or related health conditions, namely asthma, hay fever and food allergies. To help combat itch and curb inflammation if you have allergies, a healthcare provider may suggest antihistamines. Some antihistamines also contain sedatives that can help people sleep.

Examples of OTC oral antihistamines include:

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Siladryl, Unisom, Banophen, Sudafed);
Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton, Wal-Finate, Aller-Chlor);
Cetirizine (Zyrtec, Aller-Tec, Alleroff, Cetiri-D);
Loratadine (Claritin, Alavert, Wal-itin);
Fexofenadine (Allegra, Aller-ease, Aller-Fex, Wal-Fex Allergy);
Doxylamine (Unisom, Wal-Som, Ultra Sleep).

To address common eczema symptoms such as burning, pain and inflammation, a healthcare provider may also suggest OTC pain relievers such as:

Acetaminophen (Tylenol);
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs including ibuprofen;
(Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn).

Topical Hydrocortisone

Topical OTC hydrocortisone is a low potency steroid and works on the skin by reducing irritation, itching and inflammation. OTC steroids come in many forms, including ointments, creams, lotions and gels. They are used for the temporary relief of itching and rashes caused by most types of eczema.

OTC hydrocortisone is usually applied one to four times a day for up to seven days. Follow the directions on the label carefully. Do not use OTC steroids more often or longer than recommended on the label or by your healthcare provider.

Even though it’s sold over the counter, hydrocortisone products may cause side effects including:

Dry or cracked skin
Acne
Itching
Burning
Change in skin color.

Shampoos

Medicated OTC shampoos containing ingredients such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, coal tar and zinc pyrithione help with symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp (also known as dandruff). The active ingredients in OTC dandruff shampoos typically work by helping lift the seborrheic dermatitis scale from the scalp and/or provide an anti-fungal treatment to combat the overgrowth of a type of yeast called Malassezia. Malassezia is thought to contribute to the development of seborrheic dermatitis.

Prescription Topicals

What are topicals?

Topical treatments, or “topicals,” for eczema are medications that are applied to the skin to manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. There are a few different types of topicals for eczema. The most common include prescription steroids in varying strengths, calcineurin inhibitors, PDE4 inhibitors and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors.

Topical JAK inhibitor

The inflammation of atopic dermatitis (AD) is caused in part by immune system messengers called cytokines that are increased in the blood and the skin. Several of these inflammatory cytokines exert their effects through a chemical signal pathway inside cells known as the JAK-STAT pathway (Janus Kinase-Signal transducer and activators of transcription). The JAK family has four members – JAK inhibitors can target one or more of these family members to block these immune signals and inhibit the inflammatory effect of key cytokines involved in AD. The following topical medication works by specifically blocking JAK1 and JAK2, two enzymes that are involved in several cytokine pathways that contribute to inflammation in the skin, itch, and skin barrier function. Reducing the activity of JAK1 and JAK2 in atopic dermatitis can lead to fewer and/or less severe signs and symptoms by reducing itch, rash, and skin redness.

One topical JAK inhibitor is available for use with eczema. Opzelura (ruxolitinib 1.5%) cream is a topical selective JAK inhibitor approved by the FDA for the short-term and non-continuous treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in non-immunocompromised (patients without weakened immune systems) adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older who disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies or when those therapies are not advisable. Frequently asked questions about Opzelura (ruxolitinib 1.5%) cream are available here.

Topical calcineurin inhibitors

Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) are nonsteroidal medications that work by stopping certain cells of the immune system from “switching on,” preventing eczema symptoms such as redness and itch and inflammation.

Two TCIs are available for use in eczema, tacrolimus ointment (Protopic® and generic options) and pimecrolimus cream (Elidel® and generic options). Tacrolimus is FDA-approved in two concentrations for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, one for children age 2-15 years of age, and one for adults. Pimecrolimus is FDA-approved for adults and children 2 years of age and older with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. Your healthcare provider may additionally prescribe TCIs “off-label” to treat your eczema.

TCIs can be applied to all affected areas of the skin, including areas of delicate or thinner skin such as the face, eyelids, genitals, or skin folds, where the short- or long-term use of topical steroids may not be preferred. TCIs can be used for extended periods of time to control symptoms and reduce flares. Common side effects with TCIs include mild burning or stinging sensation when the medication is first applied to the skin.

In 2006, the FDA implemented a black box warning for TCIs regarding long-term safety and a possible risk of lymphoma (a type of blood cancer). To date, a causal link between TCIs use in eczema and these cancers has not been shown. However, this risk should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Topical PDE4 inhibitors

Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) is an enzyme that works inside cells in our immune system in the production of different inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines are proteins also produced by different immune system cells that contribute to a normal immune response. When cytokines are mistakenly triggered in the body, the resulting inflammation can contribute to the development of certain diseases, including atopic dermatitis. Blocking PDE-4 hinders the production of several cytokines that are involved in the inflammation of atopic dermatitis.

Currently, there is one FDA-approved topical PDE4 inhibitor for atopic dermatitis. Crisaborole (Eucrisa®) is an ointment available for adults and children with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis ages 3 months and up. Frequently asked questions about Crisaborole are available here.

Topical steroids

One of the most commonly prescribed medications for all types of eczema is topical corticosteroids, or steroids for short, which can reduce inflammation and itching so that the skin can begin to heal.

Steroids are naturally occurring substances that our bodies make in order to regulate growth and immune function. Corticosteroids have been used for more than 60 years in topical medications to treat many kinds of inflammatory skin conditions including eczema. Topical steroids are used for eczema in adults and children.

Topical steroids are classified by their strength (or potency), which ranges from “super potent” (Class 1), to “least potent” (Class 7). There are a number of different topical steroid types as well as different concentrations, and dosage forms (ointment, cream, lotion, spray). Only apply the steroid to eczema-affected areas of your skin at the frequency prescribed by your doctor. Moisturizers can be applied on top of steroids. Certain areas or types of skin — the face, genitals, skin folds, raw or thin skin, and areas that rub together, such as beneath the breasts, or between the buttocks or thighs — absorb more medication and care must be taken when using steroids in these areas.

Once inflammation is under control, reduce or stop using the steroid per your physician’s instructions. If you are using high-potency steroids and/or have been using steroids for a long time, please consult your healthcare provider to avoid the risk of a “rebound” flare after stopping the medication.

As with any medication, there can be side effects to using topical steroids. The risk of side effects is related to the potency of the steroid, location and duration of use. Many of the potential side effects will resolve after stopping use of topical steroids. Common side effects of topical steroids include:

Thinning of the skin (atrophy)
Stretch marks (striae)
Spider veins (telangiectasia)
Perioral dermatitis (around the mouth)
Acne or rosacea-like rashes.

Rare side effects of topical steroids may include:

Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression;
Growth retardation in young children;
Glaucoma (damage to the eye’s optic nerve);
Cataracts (clouding of the eye lens);
Topical Steroid Withdrawal.

Corticosteroids, including topical corticosteroids (TCS), are associated with a potentially serious condition called Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW). TSW is thought to be rare but can be debilitating for some patients. It may not be recognized by all health professionals as clear diagnostic criteria do not yet exist. Learn more about TSW and appropriate use of TCS. Visit our New Prescription Treatments hub to learn about newly-approved eczema treatments.

Prescription Injectables – Biologics

What are biologics?

Biologic drugs, or “biologics,” are among the most targeted therapies available today because they essentially use human DNA to treat certain diseases at the immune system level. Taken subcutaneously (through the skin) or intravenously (in the vein), biologics are genetically engineered medications that contain proteins derived from living tissues or cells cultured in a laboratory.

How do biologics work?

The immune system produces a certain type of protein chemical messenger called an interleukin, abbreviated IL, that helps our body fight off harmful viruses and bacteria. But for people with inflammatory diseases like atopic dermatitis, the immune system overreacts and triggers the release of certain ILs resulting in inflammation. This chronic inflammation leads to itchy, red patches on the skin and other symptoms common to many types of eczema.

Biologics for atopic dermatitis block specific ILs from binding to their cell surface receptors, which stops or limits that part of the immune system response. A calmer immune system means lower or less severe inflammation and therefore fewer symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

Dupixent® (dupilumab) is a biologic medication approved by the FDA for adults and children aged 6 months and up with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis for whom topical treatments have not worked or are not advised. Frequently asked questions about Dupixent are available here.

Adbry (tralokinumab-ldrm) is a biologic drug approved by the FDA for adults (18+ years) with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies used on the skin (topical therapies) or when those therapies are not advisable. Frequently asked questions about Adbry are available here.

Prescription Oral

Immunosuppressants

While the exact cause of eczema is not known, researchers understand that the immune system is involved. In eczema, the immune system overreacts and produces inflammation, which leads to symptoms such as itching, irritation and skin barrier problems.

If you have moderate to severe eczema, your doctor may prescribe a type of medication called an immunosuppressant, which helps control or suppress the immune system in order to slow down the symptoms of eczema.

Immunosuppressants are prescribed for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in children and adults. They can be used to help stop the itch-scratch cycle of eczema, to allow the skin to heal and reduce the risk of skin infection. There are a number of immunosuppressants, both traditional systemic medications and steroids, used for treating eczema

JAK inhibitors

The inflammation of AD is caused in part by immune system messengers called cytokines that are increased in the blood and the skin. Several of these inflammatory cytokines exert their effects through a chemical signal pathway inside cells known as the JAK-STAT pathway (Janus Kinase-Signal transducer and activators of transcription). The JAK family has four members – JAK inhibitors can target one or more of these family members to block these immune signals and inhibit the inflammatory effect of key cytokines involved in AD. The following oral medications work by selectively blocking JAK1, which is a JAK family member associated with several cytokines and other pathways that drive inflammation and itch in AD.

Cibinqo (abrocitinib) is an oral JAK1 inhibitor approved by the FDA for adults and children aged 12 years and up with refractory moderate to severe atopic dermatitis whose disease is not adequately controlled with other systemic drug products, including biologics, or when use of those therapies is inadvisable. The FDA approved Cibinqo in January 2022. Frequently asked questions about Cibinqo are available here.

Rinvoq (upadacitinib) is an oral JAK1 inhibitor approved by the FDA for adults and adolescents aged 12+ years with moderate to severe AD whose disease is not adequately controlled with other system drug products, including biologics, or when use of those therapies is inadvisable. The FDA approved Rinvoq for AD in January 2022. Frequently asked questions about Rinvoq are available here.

Traditional systemic medications

Among the most common traditional systemic medications used to treat eczema are:

Azathioprine is an oral medication first used in transplant patients to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ.
Cyclosporine is an oral or injectable medication first used in transplant patients to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ.
Methotrexate is an oral or injectable medication used frequently in psoriasis and different types of arthritis. It is a chemotherapy agent first used on cancer patients.
Mycophenolate mofetil is used in transplant patients and for other diseases of the immune system.

These medications are considered “off-label,” which means that it’s not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to specifically treat atopic dermatitis and other forms of eczema. Immunosuppressants have the potential for serious side effects, including:

Increased risk of infections;
Upset stomach and vomiting;
Increased risk for certain types of cancers;
Increased blood pressure with cyclosporine;
Increased risk of kidney damage with cyclosporine and methotrexate;
Risk of liver damage with methotrexate.

Your healthcare provider will determine what baseline and ongoing monitoring exams and/or tests are needed when considering and using these medications.

In general, immunosuppressants are used for a short period of time to get the eczema under control, then tapered off or switched to topical medications for long-term eczema management. For many people, the improvement in their eczema on immunosuppressants helps to control symptoms with topical medications in the long term.

Steroids

Steroids are also immunosuppressants and, in severe cases of eczema, oral steroids such as prednisone may be prescribed to control inflammation. However, they are not recommended by many healthcare providers due to the “rebound effect,” whereby the symptoms of eczema return, often worse, when the medication is discontinued. Long-term use (more than a month) of systemic steroids may result in serious side effects including:

An increase in bacterial, fungal and viral infections;
Skin thinning, stretch marks and acne;
Hair loss;
Weight gain;
Glaucoma or cataracts;
High blood pressure;
Gastrointestinal issues;
Osteoporosis;
Stunted growth in children;
Irregular menstruation.

According to the Clinical Guidelines for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis by the American Academy of Dermatology, “Systemic steroids should be avoided if possible for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Their use should be exclusively reserved for acute, severe exacerbations and as a short-term bridge therapy to other systemic, steroid-sparing therapy.”

If you are taking oral steroids for the short-term treatment of eczema, it’s important to work with your doctor to use and subsequently taper off this therapy appropriately and move to a longer-term treatment solution. Visit our New Prescription Treatments hub to learn about newly approved prescription eczema treatments.

Prescription phototherapy

Phototherapy, also called light therapy, means treatment with different wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light. It can be prescribed to treat many forms of eczema in adults and children and helps to reduce itch and inflammation.

Phototherapy is generally used for eczema that is all over the body (widespread) or for localized eczema (such as hands and feet) that has not improved with topical treatments. The most common type of phototherapy used to treat eczema is narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) light, although other options may be recommended by your healthcare provider, including those that use ultraviolet A (UVA) light. Treatment with phototherapy uses a special machine to emit either UVB or UVA light.

What should I expect with phototherapy?

During your visit, you will apply a moisturizing oil to the skin and stand in a large cabinet undressed except for underwear and goggles to protect the eyes. The light-emitting machine will be activated for a short time – usually just seconds to minutes – and it will either treat the entire body or just certain exposed areas. It may take one or two months of steady treatment with phototherapy to start to see improvement in eczema symptoms, and at that point, the frequency of the visits can sometimes be reduced or stopped for a period to see if the eczema is in remission.

Potential side effects of phototherapy include: