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Atopic Dermatitis Treatments: From Topicals to Biologics


By Michael Anderson, Clinical Research Project Manager •

Atopic dermatitis affects more than 31 million Americans, yet only a fraction find treatments that provide lasting control. The landscape of treatment options has expanded dramatically in recent years. A head-to-head clinical trial of newer systemic agents found that 72.4% of patients achieved at least a 75% improvement in their skin symptoms after 16 weeks of treatment with upadacitinib, transforming the possibilities for lasting relief[1].

As medical professionals, we understand your journey. Perhaps you've cycled through prescription steroids, moisturizers, antihistamines, or elimination diets. Each approach brought initial hope, then frustration when symptoms returned. Treatment responses vary widely, as atopic dermatitis involves a complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors[2]. The impact extends beyond visible symptoms. Sleep disruption affects 88.5% of patients, while work productivity losses occur in 23.8% of cases[3]. This reality drives our commitment to finding truly effective, personalized solutions.

This guide will walk you through the science of what works, what doesn't, and why. Research shows that targeted approaches can achieve significantly better results than treating symptoms alone. In a pivotal clinical trial, 80% of patients receiving upadacitinib achieved 75% improvement in skin symptoms, compared to only 16% of those receiving placebo[4]. We will cover everything from first-line topicals to the latest biologics, and discuss maintenance strategies that prevent flares, proven successful in long-term studies[5]. You will also discover how to identify your personal triggers. Every section provides actionable, evidence-based insights.

Here's what has changed recently: targeted therapies have been shown to produce measurable improvements in a majority of patients. For instance, a meta-analysis of real-world data found that after 16 weeks of treatment with dupilumab, 85.1% of patients achieved at least a 50% improvement in their skin symptoms. This represents a significant advancement in how we manage atopic dermatitis long-term[6]. Furthermore, in a clinical trial of the biologic agent lebrikizumab, 15.3% of patients reported a significant reduction in itch as early as two days after starting treatment, a primary goal for improving quality of life[7].

Key Takeaways

  • A Stepwise Approach is Best: Effective atopic dermatitis treatment starts with foundational care like moisturizing and escalates to topicals, systemics, or biologics as needed.
  • Topical Treatments Are Key: Corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors remain the first line of defense for managing inflammation in most cases.
  • Biologics Offer New Hope: For severe, resistant cases, targeted biologic therapies like Dupilumab can control the specific inflammatory pathways driving the condition.
  • Maintenance Prevents Flares: A proactive, long-term strategy using moisturizers and twice-weekly anti-inflammatory creams is more effective than just treating flare-ups.
  • Your Treatment Plan is Unique: The most successful atopic dermatitis treatments are personalized based on your specific symptoms, triggers, and lifestyle.

Table of Contents

Understanding Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy skin and recurring eczematous lesions. It affects up to 20% of children and 10% of adults worldwide, with prevalence rates varying significantly by region[8].

The condition involves complex interactions between genetic factors, immune dysfunction, and environmental triggers. Research shows that loss-of-function mutations in the filaggrin gene, which compromises skin barrier function, are a major genetic risk factor. A large meta-analysis found these mutations in 19.1% of atopic dermatitis patients globally, though the prevalence can be higher in certain populations, particularly those of Northern European descent[9]. For a deeper dive into the hereditary aspects, see our article on exploring the link between eczema and genetics. To better understand these underlying root causes of atopic dermatitis, it's helpful to explore the genetic and environmental factors at play. Many patients also wonder if the condition is contagious. While it is not, understanding how eczema can spread on your own body is important for management.

Research Update: Early systemic treatment may have a disease-modifying effect, potentially leading to prolonged remission, less frequent flares, and a more predictable disease course over time[10].

Understanding your specific type matters. Atopic dermatitis presentations vary by age and severity. The key differences, backed by clinical observation, include[11]:

  • Infantile: Often starts on the face and scalp with weeping lesions.
  • Childhood: Typically shifts to the flexural areas like the insides of elbows and knees.
  • Adult: Hand eczema and facial eczema become more common, often with thicker, more leathery skin.

Topical Atopic Dermatitis Treatments: Your First-Line Defense

Topical treatments remain the foundation of atopic dermatitis management. A cornerstone of this approach is proactive therapy, where intermittent application of anti-inflammatory creams to previously affected areas can prevent flares. For example, one clinical trial found that a stand-alone emollient treatment reduced the relapse rate from 71.4% (in the vehicle-treated group) to 28.6%, representing a greater than 50% reduction in flares.[12].

Topical Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation and suppressing immune responses in the skin. They're categorized by potency from Class I (super potent) to Class VII (least potent).

Research demonstrates that appropriate use of topical corticosteroids improves symptoms in 65% of patients within two weeks[13]. Finding the right steroid eczema cream often involves matching the potency to the severity and body location.

65%

of patients see improvement with proper corticosteroid use

Application tips for optimal results:

  • Apply to damp skin after bathing
  • Use the fingertip unit method for dosing
  • Taper gradually to prevent rebound

Potential Downsides of Topical Corticosteroids

While highly effective, it's important to use topical corticosteroids as directed by a healthcare professional to minimize potential side effects. The most common local side effects include:

  • Skin atrophy (thinning): This can make the skin more fragile and prone to bruising.
  • Striae (stretch marks): These can occur with prolonged use, especially in skin folds.
  • Perioral dermatitis or steroid-induced rosacea: A rash that can develop around the mouth or on the face with overuse.
  • Tachyphylaxis: Over time, the skin can become less responsive to the medication, requiring stronger steroids.

A more severe, though less common, concern is Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), also known as Red Skin Syndrome. This is an adverse reaction that can occur after stopping the use of mid- to high-potency topical corticosteroids that have been used for a prolonged period. To learn more about this condition and how to manage it, please see our comprehensive guide on Fixing TSW (Topical Steroid Withdrawal).

Calcineurin Inhibitors

For sensitive areas where skin thinning is a concern, such as the face, eyelids, and skin folds, topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) like tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel) are often preferred. They do not cause skin atrophy and are effective for long-term proactive treatment. Clinical trials show calcineurin inhibitors are highly effective in facial and intertriginous areas, with one meta-analysis finding that patients were nearly four times more likely to achieve at least 75% improvement with tacrolimus compared to a mild corticosteroid[14].

Potential Downsides of Calcineurin Inhibitors

The most common side effect of TCIs is a burning or stinging sensation at the application site. This is usually mild and temporary, often subsiding after the first week of use as the skin's inflammation improves.

It's also important to address the FDA "black box" warning that was placed on these medications in 2006, suggesting a theoretical risk of lymphoma. This warning was based on animal studies using high oral doses of the medication, not on data from patients using the topical creams. Since then, multiple large-scale, long-term studies and systematic reviews have been conducted, and they have not found a conclusive link between the use of topical calcineurin inhibitors and an increased risk of cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology and other international dermatology organizations continue to support the use of TCIs as a safe and effective treatment for atopic dermatitis.

📚 Related Resource

For deeper insights on managing facial eczema, see our guide: Facial Eczema: How To Manage A Breakout

Newer Topical Options

Recent FDA approvals have expanded topical options significantly. In pivotal clinical trials for crisaborole, a PDE4 inhibitor, 32.8% of patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after 28 days of treatment[15].

Ruxolitinib cream, a JAK inhibitor, demonstrated rapid itch relief, with 16.3% of patients experiencing a significant reduction in itch within 12 hours of the first application[16]. These newer agents offer alternatives when traditional topicals fail.

Potential Downsides of Newer Topicals

Crisaborole is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effect is a temporary stinging or burning sensation at the application site. This typically resolves on its own as the skin adjusts to the medication.

Ruxolitinib cream is also considered safe for topical use, with a low risk of side effects. It is important to be aware that oral JAK inhibitors carry an FDA "black box" warning for risks such as serious infections, major adverse cardiovascular events, thrombosis, and malignancies.

The risk of these systemic effects from topical application is very low due to minimal absorption into the bloodstream. Still, it is a topic to discuss with your healthcare provider.

SmartLotion®: A Multi-Mechanism Approach to Atopic Dermatitis

Among newer topical formulations, SmartLotion® represents a significant advancement in addressing the primary challenge of topical corticosteroid therapy: balancing effectiveness with long-term safety. This formulation combines hydrocortisone 0.75% with precipitated sulfur in a sophisticated multi-mechanism approach that addresses inflammation, barrier dysfunction, and microbial imbalance simultaneously.

The Revolutionary Sulfur-Hydrocortisone Safety Profile

The most compelling evidence for SmartLotion's unique approach comes from a landmark 15-year study that followed 300 patients using the hydrocortisone-sulfur combination continuously on facial skin, the area most susceptible to steroid complications. The results were unprecedented: absolutely zero incidence of steroid acne, rebound phenomenon, or perioral dermatitis, complications typically seen with prolonged corticosteroid use[17]. This finding is particularly significant given that facial application represents the highest-risk scenario for steroid-induced side effects.

Research Breakthrough: The sulfur-hydrocortisone combination appears to prevent typical corticosteroid complications through multiple protective pathways, including modulation of glucocorticoid receptor activity and preservation of normal fibroblast proliferation despite corticosteroid exposure. This enables sustained anti-inflammatory therapy without the progressive skin changes that limit traditional steroid use.

Multi-Mechanism Therapeutic Approach

SmartLotion's effectiveness stems from addressing all major pathophysiological aspects of atopic dermatitis through complementary mechanisms:

  • Anti-inflammatory Control: Hydrocortisone 0.75% functions as a Class VII topical corticosteroid, providing targeted anti-inflammatory effects through phospholipase A2 inhibition and direct transcriptional control. Clinical absorption studies demonstrate enhanced therapeutic delivery during acute dermatitis phases, when treatment is most needed[18].
  • Antimicrobial Coverage: Sulfur provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity effective against Staphylococcus aureus (including antibiotic-resistant strains), which commonly colonizes atopic dermatitis lesions. A 2024 randomized controlled trial in patients with palmoplantar keratotic eczema demonstrated that sulfur cream treatment combined with standard therapy achieved a 93% overall response rate compared to 79% with standard therapy alone, with significantly improved quality of life and fewer adverse reactions[19].
  • Barrier Repair: The formulation includes physiologic barrier repair components. Petrolatum upregulates antimicrobial peptides including S100A8 (13.04-fold) and S100A9 (11.28-fold) while promoting barrier protein synthesis including filaggrin and loricrin, proteins often deficient in atopic dermatitis[20]. Glycerin activates aquaporin-3 facilitated water transport and accelerates corneocyte maturation[21].
  • Microbiome Support: Sulfur's prebiotic effects help restore healthy skin microbiome balance, addressing the microbial dysbiosis characteristic of atopic dermatitis.

Clinical Evidence and Efficacy

The formulation's approach aligns with findings from a comprehensive 2023 network meta-analysis published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, which analyzed 219 randomized trials with 43,123 patients across 68 interventions. This analysis found that medium-potency topical corticosteroids (including 0.5-1% formulations like hydrocortisone 0.75%) combined with other therapeutic agents consistently ranked higher than single-ingredient treatments, showing optimal benefit-risk profiles[22].

Safety for Sensitive Areas

SmartLotion's unique safety profile makes it particularly suitable for facial and eyelid atopic dermatitis, areas where conventional corticosteroids pose significant risks. Facial and eyelid skin is 5-10 times more permeable than other body sites, with the eyelid showing the highest absorption rate at approximately 30% compared to just 1% on the plantar foot[23]. This dramatic absorption difference typically contraindicates potent corticosteroid use in these sensitive areas.

The sulfur-hydrocortisone combination overcomes these limitations through multiple protective mechanisms. The Class VII potency of hydrocortisone 0.75% is specifically recommended for facial use by dermatology guidelines, as it maintains therapeutic efficacy while minimizing atrophogenic potential[24]. The addition of sulfur not only prevents the steroid complications demonstrated in the 15-year facial application study but also provides independent anti-inflammatory effects[25].

Vehicle Optimization for Enhanced Delivery

The sophisticated vehicle formulation dramatically enhances therapeutic outcomes. Pharmaceutical research demonstrates that vehicle composition can make the same corticosteroid concentration span four different potency classes, with optimized vehicles creating intracutaneous depot effects that prolong active retention in target skin layers while minimizing systemic absorption[26]. The complementary emulsifier system and barrier repair components enhance skin penetration while providing sustained release, increasing dermal targeting and reducing systemic exposure.

Dr. Harlan's Clinical Protocol for Atopic Dermatitis:

Based on his clinical experience, Dr. Harlan recommends a specific protocol for adults using SmartLotion®:

  • For the Body: Apply SmartLotion® 4 times per day and a high-quality moisturizer twice per day for up to four weeks.
  • For the Face: Apply SmartLotion® 2-4 times per day and a moisturizer twice per day for up to four weeks.
  • Application Order: Always apply moisturizer first, allowing it to absorb before applying SmartLotion®.
  • Tapering: Once the rash shows clear improvement, gradually reduce applications by one per day, holding for two weeks at each step, until you find the minimum frequency needed for maintenance (often 1-3 times per week).

This structured approach is designed to gain initial control of the flare-up and then transition to a safe, sustainable long-term maintenance plan. Reducing soaps, hot showers, and sweat-inducing activities during a flare is also advised. For a more detailed guide, you can review Dr. Harlan's full Atopic Dermatitis protocol here.

Long-Term Management Advantages

The combination's proven safety profile over 15 years of continuous use addresses one of the most significant challenges in atopic dermatitis management: maintaining long-term control without progressive complications. Traditional topical corticosteroids require careful monitoring and often necessitate treatment breaks or potency adjustments due to side effect concerns. SmartLotion's multi-mechanism approach enables both acute treatment and sustained maintenance therapy, providing clinicians and patients with a comprehensive tool for managing this chronic inflammatory condition.

Systemic Atopic Dermatitis Treatments for Moderate to Severe Cases

When topical treatments prove insufficient, systemic options and eczema treatment medications become necessary. Up to 13% of adults with atopic dermatitis have moderate-to-severe disease that is not adequately controlled with topical therapies alone, often requiring systemic treatment[27].

Oral JAK Inhibitors: A New Standard of Care

Oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors represent one of the most significant advances in atopic dermatitis treatment in recent years. These medications work by blocking specific enzymes that transmit inflammatory signals within cells. Three JAK inhibitors are now FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis:

  1. Upadacitinib (Rinvoq): The most studied oral JAK inhibitor for atopic dermatitis. In head-to-head trials, 72.4% of patients achieved at least 75% improvement in skin symptoms after 16 weeks[1]. When compared directly to placebo, 80% of patients receiving upadacitinib achieved 75% improvement[4]. It is taken once daily and often shows improvement within 2-4 weeks.
  2. Abrocitinib (Cibinqo): Another oral JAK inhibitor taken once daily, with similar efficacy to upadacitinib. It offers flexibility with dosing options based on severity and response.
  3. Baricitinib (Olumiant): Initially approved for rheumatoid arthritis, baricitinib is now FDA-approved for atopic dermatitis and offers another oral option for patients.

Potential Downsides of Oral JAK Inhibitors

While highly effective, oral JAK inhibitors carry an FDA "black box" warning. Key safety considerations include:

  • Serious infections: Including tuberculosis, fungal infections, and viral infections. TB testing is required before starting treatment.
  • Increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE): Heart attacks and strokes, particularly in patients over 50 with cardiovascular risk factors.
  • Thrombosis (blood clots): Including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, especially in those with risk factors.
  • Malignancies: Increased risk of certain cancers, particularly lymphoma and lung cancer in current or former smokers.
  • Laboratory abnormalities: Changes in blood counts, cholesterol levels, and liver enzymes require regular monitoring.
  • Gastrointestinal perforation: A rare but serious risk, particularly in patients taking NSAIDs or corticosteroids.

These risks must be carefully weighed against the benefits, particularly for patients who have failed other treatments. Your dermatologist will assess your individual risk factors and discuss whether a JAK inhibitor is appropriate for you.

Traditional Systemic Immunosuppressants

Before the availability of targeted therapies, traditional systemic immunosuppressants were the mainstay of treatment for severe atopic dermatitis. They remain important options, particularly when cost or access to newer treatments is a concern:

  1. Cyclosporine: This oral medication works quickly, often within 6 to 8 weeks, and is highly effective for severe flares, with approximately 55% of patients seeing significant improvement. However, it requires careful monitoring for potential kidney and blood pressure side effects, limiting its long-term use[28].
  2. Methotrexate: A cost-effective weekly oral medication for chronic atopic dermatitis. In a clinical trial, 44% of patients achieved at least a 50% improvement in symptoms after 12 weeks of treatment. It requires routine liver enzyme monitoring[29].
  3. Azathioprine: Another long-term immunosuppressant useful for maintenance therapy. It has a slower onset of action, with one clinical trial showing a 28% improvement in disease severity after 12 weeks. It requires genetic testing for the TPMT enzyme before starting[30].
  4. Mycophenolate mofetil: An alternative for cases resistant to other treatments, with a meta-analysis showing that 77.6% of patients achieve partial or full remission within about 7 weeks. It is often used off-label for atopic dermatitis[31].

Systemic treatments require close monitoring by a healthcare professional to manage potential side effects and ensure the best outcomes.

Potential Downsides of Systemic Treatments

While effective for severe atopic dermatitis, systemic treatments carry a higher risk of side effects and require careful monitoring. Key considerations for each include:

  • Cyclosporine: The primary concerns are nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) and hypertension. Regular blood pressure checks and blood tests to monitor kidney function are essential.
  • Methotrexate: This can affect the liver, so routine blood tests to monitor liver enzymes are necessary. Other common side effects include nausea, fatigue, and mouth sores. Folic acid is often prescribed alongside it to reduce these effects.
  • Azathioprine: Before starting this medication, a blood test for the TPMT enzyme is required. A deficiency in this enzyme can lead to severe bone marrow suppression. Other potential side effects include gastrointestinal upset and an increased risk of infections.
  • Mycophenolate mofetil: The most common side effects are gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea and nausea. It also carries an increased risk of certain infections.
Systemic Treatment Onset of Action Efficacy Rate Key Monitoring
Upadacitinib 2 to 4 weeks 80% (EASI-75)[4] Blood counts, lipids, liver
Cyclosporine 6 to 8 weeks 55%[28] Kidney function, BP
Methotrexate 12 weeks 44% (SCORAD-50)[29] Liver enzymes
Azathioprine 12 weeks 28% improvement[30] Blood counts
Mycophenolate mofetil ~7 weeks 77.6% remission[31] Blood counts

Biologic Atopic Dermatitis Treatments: The New Frontier

Biologics have revolutionized the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis by targeting specific inflammatory pathways. Dupilumab (Dupixent), the first biologic approved for atopic dermatitis, has shown remarkable success. In a meta-analysis of clinical trial data, 65.2% of patients treated with dupilumab achieved at least a 75% improvement in skin symptoms after 16 weeks[32]. By blocking Interleukin-4 (IL-4) and Interleukin-13 (IL-13), it effectively reduces the underlying inflammation that drives the disease.

Other biologics, such as tralokinumab (Adbry) and lebrikizumab (Ebglyss), which both target IL-13, have also demonstrated significant efficacy. A meta-analysis of clinical trials found that 38.6% of patients treated with these IL-13 inhibitors achieved at least a 75% improvement in skin symptoms after 16 weeks[33]. These agents offer new hope for patients who have not responded to other systemic treatments.

Biologic Treatment Onset of Action Efficacy Rate Key Monitoring
Dupilumab 16 weeks 65.2% (75% improvement)[32] Blood counts
Tralokinumab 16 weeks 38.6% (75% improvement)[33] Blood counts
Lebrikizumab 16 weeks 38.6% (75% improvement)[33] Blood counts

Potential Downsides of Biologic Therapies

While biologics are generally well-tolerated and have a more favorable safety profile compared to traditional systemic immunosuppressants, they do carry some potential risks:

  • Injection site reactions: The most common side effect, including redness, swelling, and itching at the injection site. These are usually mild and resolve on their own.
  • Conjunctivitis (eye inflammation): Particularly with dupilumab, some patients experience eye redness, itching, or dryness. This is usually manageable with eye drops and resolves with continued treatment.
  • Increased risk of infections: Because biologics target specific parts of the immune system, there is a theoretical increased risk of certain infections. However, this risk appears to be lower than with traditional immunosuppressants.
  • Potential for allergic reactions: As with any injected medication, there is a possibility of allergic reactions, though these are rare.
  • Cost and access: Biologics are expensive medications, and insurance coverage can be challenging. Many require prior authorization and demonstration that other treatments have failed.

Clinical Pearl: Patients who fail one biologic may respond to another targeting a different pathway. Don't give up after one attempt.

The pipeline for atopic dermatitis treatments is expanding rapidly. Promising candidates currently in development include:

  • Nemolizumab (anti-IL-31): A biologic specifically designed to target the neuro-immune pathways of itch.
  • Fezakinumab (anti-IL-22): An agent being studied for patients with thick, lichenified plaques.
  • Tezepelumab (anti-TSLP): An upstream cytokine blockade that may address a broader range of inflammatory triggers.

Phototherapy Options

Also known as light therapy, phototherapy uses controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light to reduce inflammation and itch. Narrowband UVB is the most common form used for atopic dermatitis and is considered a safe, effective option for widespread disease.

Potential Downsides of Phototherapy

While generally safe when administered by a professional, phototherapy has potential side effects:

  • Short-term effects: The most common side effects are similar to a mild sunburn, including redness, tenderness, and itching. These typically resolve within a day.
  • Long-term risks: With prolonged, cumulative exposure to UV light, there is an increased risk of premature skin aging (photoaging) and skin cancer. This risk is higher with PUVA therapy compared to the more commonly used narrowband UVB.
  • Time commitment: Phototherapy requires regular sessions, typically 2 to 3 times per week, which can be a significant time commitment for patients.

Long-Term Maintenance Strategies

Once the skin is clear, maintaining that improvement is the next challenge. Long-term maintenance therapy, often involving the proactive use of topical treatments on previously affected areas, has been shown to be highly effective. A meta-analysis of clinical trials found that a consistent moisturizing routine can reduce the rate of flares by a factor of 3.74 compared to no treatment[34]. Regular use of specialized moisturizers not only hydrates the skin but also helps restore the compromised skin barrier.

3.74x

reduction in flare rate with consistent moisturizing

Moisturizers containing ceramides are particularly beneficial, as these lipids are essential for maintaining the skin's barrier function and are often deficient in atopic skin. Clinical studies have shown that ceramide-containing moisturizers can significantly improve skin hydration and reduce water loss, further helping to prevent relapses[35].

Key Takeaways for Maintenance:

  • Trigger identification: Keeping a journal to track and avoid personal triggers like specific foods, fabrics, or environmental allergens.
  • Dietary considerations: While not a trigger for everyone, some patients find that an anti-inflammatory diet can support skin health.
  • Stress management: Techniques like mindfulness or meditation can reduce the frequency of stress-induced flares.
  • Sleep optimization: Aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night can significantly improve the skin's natural healing processes.

For those seeking gentler maintenance options, a well-formulated eczema cream designed for sensitive skin can bridge the gap between aggressive treatment and daily moisturizing.

📚 Related Resource

Learn more about preventing flares in our guide: Breaking Down the Triggers behind Eczema Flare-Ups

When to See a Dermatologist

While many cases of atopic dermatitis can be managed by a primary care physician, certain situations warrant a referral to a dermatologist. Early referral is beneficial for patients whose quality of life is significantly impacted or for whom the diagnosis is uncertain.

A dermatologist can help confirm the diagnosis, rule out mimicking conditions, and offer more advanced treatment options when first-line therapies fail. If symptoms are not well-controlled despite adequate topical therapies, early referral is warranted to rule out confounding diagnoses or escalate to systemic therapies[36].

Criteria for Specialist Consultation:

  • Uncertainty in diagnosis.
  • Failure to respond to appropriate first-line topical treatments after 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Significant impact on quality of life, including sleep and daily activities.
  • Recurrent skin infections.
  • Consideration for advanced therapies like biologics or oral medications.

A dermatologist can provide a comprehensive evaluation and access to the full range of atopic dermatitis treatments, ensuring you receive the most effective care for your specific condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy skin and recurring eczematous lesions. It affects up to 20% of children and 10% of adults worldwide, with prevalence rates varying significantly by region.

Is atopic dermatitis contagious?

No, atopic dermatitis is not contagious. It is an immune-mediated condition, not a bacterial or viral infection. However, understanding how eczema can spread on your own body is important for management.

What are the main treatment options for atopic dermatitis?

The main treatment options for atopic dermatitis include topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, biologics (Dupilumab, Tralokinumab, Lebrikizumab), phototherapy, and systemic treatments (cyclosporine, methotrexate, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil).

How do I know if I need a specialist for my atopic dermatitis?

If you have moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis that is not well-controlled by first-line treatments, or if you have specific concerns about your condition, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, rule out mimicking conditions, and offer advanced treatment options.

About the Author: Michael Anderson, Clinical Research Project Manager

Michael bridges the gap between research labs and real patients. As our research project manager, he ensures groundbreaking studies translate into accessible treatments. A craft beer enthusiast and woodworking hobbyist, Michael approaches both his hobbies and research with the same attention to detail, although he admits that research protocols are significantly less forgiving than furniture joints.

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