: Short (5–10 minute) baths in tepid water with fragrance-free, soap-free cleansers help cleanse and hydrate the skin without causing irritation. 2. Topical Anti-Inflammatory Therapies
: Ointments and creams are generally superior to lotions for barrier repair. Newer formulations may include ceramides or filaggrin breakdown products.
: Tacrolimus (ointment) and pimecrolimus (cream) are steroid-sparing alternatives particularly useful for sensitive areas like the face or skin folds. Newer Topicals : Crisaborole : A PDE-4 inhibitor for mild-to-moderate AD.
Narrowband UVB (311 nm) or UVA1 phototherapy serves as an adjuvant for moderate-to-severe disease that is refractory to topicals. It has antimicrobial effects and modulates the skin's immune response.