• Mild soap and moisturizer. It’s best to use a mild soap or soap substitute that won’t dry your skin. Gentle soaps, known as syndets, are available at the drugstore (brand names can be recommended by your doctor or pharmacist). A good moisturizer (in cream, lotion, or ointment form) helps conserve the skin’s natural moisture and should be applied immediately after a shower or bath, as well as one other time each day. Some people with severe eczema may benefit from taking baths with a small amount of bleach added to the water. The bleach helps to kill bacteria that live on the skin of people with eczema.
• Short, warm showers. People with eczema should avoid taking very hot or very long showers or baths, which can dry out your skin.
• Reduce stress . Take steps to reduce stress. Get regular exercise and set aside time to relax.
• Get a humidifier.

Medications and other treatments for eczema include:

• Hydrocortisone . Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or ointment may help mild eczema. Prescription steroid cream may be needed for more severe eczema.
• Antihistamines . Oral antihistamines such as Benadryl are available over-the-counter and may help relieve symptoms. Some of these cause drowsiness, which may be of benefit if nighttime itching is a problem. There are also non-drowsy antihistamines.
• Corticosteroids. If other treatments fail, your doctor may prescribe oral corticosteroids. Always follow your doctor’s directions when taking oral steroids.
• Ultraviolet light therapy. People with very severe eczema may benefit from therapy using ultraviolet light.
• Immunosupressants. Drugs that suppress the immune system may also be an option. These medicines, such as cyclosporine, azathioprine, or methotrexate, may be used when other treatments have failed.
• Immunomodulators. This type of medicated cream helps treat eczema by controlling inflammation and reducing the immune system reactions. Examples include Elidel and Protopic.
• Prescription-strength moisturizers. These replace the barrier of the skin. Examples include Hylatopic Plus, Mimyx, and Epiceram.