Caring for your Skin
Having a regular skin care routine can help reduce the pain and itch of AD and lower the risk of infection. Correct use of moisturisers, soap substitutes, steroid creams and wet wrapping can help you to stay in control of your AD symptoms.1-3
Moisturisers1
Moisturisers or emollients applied directly to your skin can help reduce water loss and act as a protective film. There are different types of moisturisers. Talk to your healthcare professional for advice on which one to use. You may need to try a few to find ones that work for you.
TYPES OF MOISTURISER TO RELIEVE SYMPTOMS OF AD1
- An ointment for very dry skin
- A cream or lotion for dry skin
- An emollient to use as a substitute for soap
You may also need to use one moisturiser on your face and hands, and a different one on your body. Check with your doctor if they have a list of products or brands that they would recommend or suggest you avoid.
TIPS FOR MOISTURISERS
- Many people find it helpful to keep separate supplies at work or school, or a tub in the bathroom and one in a living area.1
- To reduce the risk of infection, use a spoon or pump dispenser and do not put your fingers into the moisturiser pot. Avoid sharing your moisturiser with other people.1
- Talk to your doctor to learn which moisturiser is best suited for you and how frequently you should be moisturising.
Corticosteroid cream
When you have AD, your skin’s function as a barrier to the outside world is compromised. Corticosteroid creams (also called cortisone creams) help to repair the barrier function of your skin. They repair skin damaged by AD, reducing inflammation.2
Your doctor will most likely have prescribed a corticosteroid cream as part of your AD treatment plan. It is important that you follow the directions of use prescribed by your doctor.
There are different strengths of corticosteroid cream available and your doctor will assess the severity of your condition before prescribing a suitable cream.
There can be a lot of confusing information available from a variety of sources regarding the regular use of cortisone creams. Just remember, your doctor is best placed to explain and discuss any questions with you.
Wet wrapping3
During intense flares with severe itch or pain, wet wrap therapy can help to rehydrate and calm your skin and help topical medications work better. Wet wraps are best done after bathing.
Always follow your doctor’s advice about the products and techniques to use in your skin care routine.
References: 1. NHS Inform. Treatment: Atopic eczema. Available from: nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/skin-hair-and-nails/atopic-eczema/#treating-atopic-eczema Accessed: August 2025. 2. National Eczema Society. Topical steroids. Available from: eczema.org/information-and-advice/treatments-for-eczema/topical-corticosteroids Accessed: August 2025. 3. National Eczema Association. Wet wraps therapy. Available from: nationaleczema.org/treatments/wet-wrap-therapy Accessed: August 2025. AC-005092-00. AU-RNQ-250078. August 2025.