- Published on:
Topical Treatment for Eczema
- Authors
- Name
- Leo Haynes
Eczema is a painful and itchy skin condition that leaves many people feeling uncomfortable in their own skin. Would you do just about anything to make the persistent rash, redness, and blisters go away?
Generic medications may work in the short term, but why not opt for more natural solutions that are good for your body? Topical treatments such as ointment, cream, soap, and lotion can be applied directly to the infected area.
In this article, I'll discuss which topical treatments are most effective in treating eczema and the precautions you should take when using them. I'll also provide insight into how they compare with oral medications and home remedies.
Table of Contents
What is Topical Treatment for Eczema?
Topical treatment for eczema is a medical approach used to reduce the symptoms and irritations that are associated with this chronic skin condition. It involves applying topical medications such as oils, creams, ointments or sprays directly to the affected areas on the body in order to provide relief.
These medications are designed to reduce dryness, redness, inflammation and itching which can be very irritating and uncomfortable for those who suffer from eczema. This type of treatment is most effective when combined with other therapeutic treatments including stress reduction, dietary changes and avoiding triggers that could cause a recurrence of eczema flare-ups.
Since different types of topical medicines are available, it's important to work with a dermatologist or health care provider to determine which one may provide the best relief from your particular case of eczema. Medications used in topical treatments can include antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or hydrocortisone cream (Cortaid).
Moisturizing creams with ingredients like ceramide and hyaluronic acid can help seal moisture into the skin while providing protective barrier against irritants that may lead to an eczema flare-up.
Prescription strength topical steroids such as prednisone cream may also be used in cases where other treatments have been unsuccessful. Although these may be more potent than over-the-counter products, they should be used under medical guidance due to potential side effects if overused or misused. Other therapies such as phototherapy, bath additives and topical calcineurin inhibitors may also be recommended depending on severity of eczema symptoms and response to other therapies.
For those suffering from moderate-to-severe cases of eczema, it's important to follow an individualized plan created by their health care provider that combines both medical interventions along with lifestyle modifications which include stress management techniques and avoiding known triggers like certain foods or fabrics that could cause an outbreak. Topical treatment for eczema is an effective way to improve quality of life while minimizing itchiness and discomfort associated with this common skin condition.