10 Common Allergy Triggers Slideshow Pictures Take the Quiz on Allergies Nasal Allergy Relief Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Gary W. Cole, MD

Gary W. Cole, MD

Dr. Cole is board certified in dermatology. He obtained his BA degree in bacteriology, his MA degree in microbiology, and his MD at the University of California, Los Angeles. He trained in dermatology at the University of Oregon, where he completed his residency.

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Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Eczema Treatment

Self-Care at Home

Removing whatever is causing the allergic reaction is the easiest and most effective treatment. This may be as simple as changing your laundry detergent or as difficult as moving to a new climate or changing jobs.

Prevent dry skin by taking warm (not hot) showers or baths. Use a mild soap or body cleanser. Prior to drying off, apply an effective emollient to your wet skin.. Emollients are substances that inhibit the evaporation of water. Generally, they are available in jars and have a "stiff" consistency. They do not flow and ought to leave a shine with a slightly greasy feel on the skin. Most good emollients contain petroleum jelly although certain solid vegetable shortenings do a more than creditable job.

Avoid wearing tight-fitting, rough, or scratchy clothing.

Avoid scratching the rash. If you can't stop yourself from scratching, cover the area with a dressing. Wear gloves at night to minimize skin damage from scratching.

Anything that causes sweating can irritate the rash. Avoid strenuous exercise during a flare.

An anti-inflammatory topical agent may be necessary to control a flare of atopic dermatitis.

• Apply an nonprescription steroid cream (1% hydrocortisone). The cream must be applied as often as possible without skipping days until the rash is gone.



• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in pill form may be taken for the itching. Caution: This medication may make you too drowsy to drive a car or operate machinery safely.



• Clean the area with a hypoallergenic soap as necessary. Apply an emollient over the topical steroid.

Avoid physical and mental stress. Eating right, light activity, and adequate sleep will help you stay healthy, which can help prevent flares.

Do not expect a quick response. Atopic dermatitis is controllable but consistency in application of treatment products is necessary.