Eczema Procedure Treatments

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Effectiveness

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HIGHEST EFFICACY IN CATEGORY

Phototherapy

(UV-A, Narrowband UV-B)

If your child wishes to avoid or reduce reliance on topical and drug treatments

If you wish to avoid or reduce reliance on topical and drug treatments

Light exposure 2-3 times per week

Medium

Side Effect	Affected
Skin redness
Skin dryness

$325 per month

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Phototherapy is effective at reducing eczema symptoms and severity in both children and adults with moderate-to-severe eczema. Studies show significant improvements in itching, sleep quality, and overall disease severity scores.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Narrow-band UVB light therapy was found to be effective and safe for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 4-14 years. The treatment improved symptoms significantly, and these improvements lasted for up to 2 years after treatment ended. Narrowband UV-B phototherapy in childhood atopic dermatitis: efficacy and safety (2017)		Total Patients: 30 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 4-14 years	Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy improved symptoms and quality of life for atopic dermatitis patients, with benefits lasting up to 3 months after treatment. The treatment caused only mild side effects like slight redness and burning. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy improves quality of life of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis patients up to 3 months: Results from an observational multicenter study (2019)	Clinical Trial	Total Patients: 144 Severity: not available Age: not available	PO-SCORAD scores showed significant improvement that lasted for at least 3 months
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy helped reduce the need for steroid creams in 70% of eczema patients. About half of the patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after treatment. The therapy also reduced the need for oral steroids and antihistamines. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is associated with a reduction in topical corticosteroid and clinical improvement in atopic dermatitis: a historical inception cohort study (2021)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 844 Severity: not available Age: not available	70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Phototherapy helps reduce the need for topical steroid creams. One large study found that 70% of patients needed significantly less topical steroids in the 12 months after phototherapy treatment.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy helped reduce the need for steroid creams in 70% of eczema patients. About half of the patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after treatment. The therapy also reduced the need for oral steroids and antihistamines. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is associated with a reduction in topical corticosteroid and clinical improvement in atopic dermatitis: a historical inception cohort study (2021)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 844 Severity: not available Age: not available	70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Phototherapy is generally safe with minimal side effects. The most common side effect is dry skin. However, some patients may experience mild redness or burning. People with certain conditions like skin cancer history should not receive phototherapy.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Both types of light therapy (narrowband UVB alone or combined with UVA) were equally effective in treating chronic atopic dermatitis. The main difference was that patients receiving only narrowband UVB experienced more skin dryness. Efficacy and safety of narrowband ultraviolet B versus combined ultraviolet A/narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis: A randomised double‐blind study (2024)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 19 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity
📄 Narrow-band UVB light therapy was found to be effective and safe for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 4-14 years. The treatment improved symptoms significantly, and these improvements lasted for up to 2 years after treatment ended. Narrowband UV-B phototherapy in childhood atopic dermatitis: efficacy and safety (2017)		Total Patients: 30 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 4-14 years	Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Different types of phototherapy (NB-UVB and UVA-1) appear to have similar effectiveness, though some studies suggest higher doses may work better for people with darker skin types.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Both types of light therapy (narrowband UVB alone or combined with UVA) were equally effective in treating chronic atopic dermatitis. The main difference was that patients receiving only narrowband UVB experienced more skin dryness. Efficacy and safety of narrowband ultraviolet B versus combined ultraviolet A/narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis: A randomised double‐blind study (2024)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 19 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity
📄 UVA1 phototherapy is effective for treating severe atopic dermatitis. High-dose UVA1 treatment works better than medium-dose for patients with darker skin, while both doses work equally well for patients with fair skin. ‘High dose’ vs. ‘medium dose’ UVA1 phototherapy in italian patients with severe atopic dermatitis (2018)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 27 Severity: severe Age: 18+	Both doses improved SCORAD scores, with high dose being significantly more effective in darker skin types (p<0.0001)

Summary:

Narrow-band UVB light therapy was found to be effective and safe for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 4-14 years. The treatment improved symptoms significantly, and these improvements lasted for up to 2 years after treatment ended.

Study Type:

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 4-14 years

Results:

Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Summary:

Narrowband UVB light therapy improved symptoms and quality of life for atopic dermatitis patients, with benefits lasting up to 3 months after treatment. The treatment caused only mild side effects like slight redness and burning.

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 144

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

PO-SCORAD scores showed significant improvement that lasted for at least 3 months

Summary:

Narrowband UVB light therapy helped reduce the need for steroid creams in 70% of eczema patients. About half of the patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after treatment. The therapy also reduced the need for oral steroids and antihistamines.

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 844

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Phototherapy helps reduce the need for topical steroid creams. One large study found that 70% of patients needed significantly less topical steroids in the 12 months after phototherapy treatment.

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 844

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Summary:

Both types of light therapy (narrowband UVB alone or combined with UVA) were equally effective in treating chronic atopic dermatitis. The main difference was that patients receiving only narrowband UVB experienced more skin dryness.

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 19

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 4-14 years

Results:

Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Different types of phototherapy (NB-UVB and UVA-1) appear to have similar effectiveness, though some studies suggest higher doses may work better for people with darker skin types.

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 19

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity

Summary:

UVA1 phototherapy is effective for treating severe atopic dermatitis. High-dose UVA1 treatment works better than medium-dose for patients with darker skin, while both doses work equally well for patients with fair skin.

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 27

Severity: severe

Age: 18+

Results:

Both doses improved SCORAD scores, with high dose being significantly more effective in darker skin types (p<0.0001)

LOWEST SIDE EFFECTS

Elimination diet

(Elimination diet)

If your AD is triggered by certain food ingredients

Procedure daily

Low

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Elimination diets can be effective for some patients with atopic dermatitis, with about 60% of patients showing improvement in their skin condition when certain foods are removed from their diet

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 In children with severe eczema and gut symptoms, 61% showed improvement when following an elimination diet. The presence of certain immune cells (IgE-positive cells) in the gut could help predict which children would not respond to an elimination diet. Duodenal IgE-positive cells and elimination diet responsiveness in children with atopic dermatitis	Comparative Study	Total Patients: 31	More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

When food-sensitive patients with atopic dermatitis follow an elimination diet, their allergic responses (measured by IgE antibodies) to problematic foods like eggs or milk decrease over time

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Elimination diets helped improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis who were sensitive to egg or milk. During the elimination diet, both antibodies to these foods and immune cell responses decreased, suggesting the diet was effective. Effect of elimination diets on food-specific IgE antibodies and lymphocyte proliferative responses to food antigens in atopic dermatitis patients exhibiting sensitivity to food allergens	Clinical Trial	Severity: not available Age: not available	Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

While elimination diets may help some patients, it's difficult to predict who will respond well to the diet just based on standard allergy tests (like skin prick tests or blood tests)

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 In children with severe eczema and gut symptoms, 61% showed improvement when following an elimination diet. The presence of certain immune cells (IgE-positive cells) in the gut could help predict which children would not respond to an elimination diet. Duodenal IgE-positive cells and elimination diet responsiveness in children with atopic dermatitis	Comparative Study	Total Patients: 31	More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet
📄 There is limited scientific evidence that elimination diets help with atopic dermatitis, except in cases where specific food allergies have been confirmed. Food elimination should only be done under medical supervision to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Elimination diet and intestinal permeability in atopic eczema: a preliminary study	Comparative Study

Patients who show improvement with elimination diets often experience a reduction in both skin symptoms and internal immune responses

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Elimination diets helped improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis who were sensitive to egg or milk. During the elimination diet, both antibodies to these foods and immune cell responses decreased, suggesting the diet was effective. Effect of elimination diets on food-specific IgE antibodies and lymphocyte proliferative responses to food antigens in atopic dermatitis patients exhibiting sensitivity to food allergens	Clinical Trial	Severity: not available Age: not available	Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms
📄 There is limited scientific evidence that elimination diets help with atopic dermatitis, except in cases where specific food allergies have been confirmed. Food elimination should only be done under medical supervision to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Elimination diet and intestinal permeability in atopic eczema: a preliminary study	Comparative Study

Elimination diets can be effective for some patients with atopic dermatitis, with about 60% of patients showing improvement in their skin condition when certain foods are removed from their diet

Summary:

In children with severe eczema and gut symptoms, 61% showed improvement when following an elimination diet. The presence of certain immune cells (IgE-positive cells) in the gut could help predict which children would not respond to an elimination diet.

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 31

Results:

More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

When food-sensitive patients with atopic dermatitis follow an elimination diet, their allergic responses (measured by IgE antibodies) to problematic foods like eggs or milk decrease over time

Summary:

Elimination diets helped improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis who were sensitive to egg or milk. During the elimination diet, both antibodies to these foods and immune cell responses decreased, suggesting the diet was effective.

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

While elimination diets may help some patients, it's difficult to predict who will respond well to the diet just based on standard allergy tests (like skin prick tests or blood tests)

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 31

Results:

More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

Summary:

There is limited scientific evidence that elimination diets help with atopic dermatitis, except in cases where specific food allergies have been confirmed. Food elimination should only be done under medical supervision to avoid nutritional deficiencies.

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Results:

Patients who show improvement with elimination diets often experience a reduction in both skin symptoms and internal immune responses

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Results:

Allergen-specific immunotherapy

(AIT)

If your AD is related to allergies and other treatment-options are exhausted

Injection weekly

Medium

Side Effect	Affected
slight adverse events
Nausea
Abdominal pain
Rhinitis aggravation

Share Cost of Medication

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

HIGHEST EFFICACY IN CATEGORY

Phototherapy (UV-A, Narrowband UV-B)

Who is this for?:

If you wish to avoid or reduce reliance on topical and drug treatments

If your child wishes to avoid or reduce reliance on topical and drug treatments

Effectiveness:

Side Effects:

Medium

Cost:

$325 per month

Delivery:

Light exposure 2-3 times per week

See Evidence

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Narrow-band UVB light therapy was found to be effective and safe for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 4-14 years. The treatment improved symptoms significantly, and these improvements lasted for up to 2 years after treatment ended. Narrowband UV-B phototherapy in childhood atopic dermatitis: efficacy and safety (2017)		Total Patients: 30 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 4-14 years	Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy improved symptoms and quality of life for atopic dermatitis patients, with benefits lasting up to 3 months after treatment. The treatment caused only mild side effects like slight redness and burning. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy improves quality of life of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis patients up to 3 months: Results from an observational multicenter study (2019)	Clinical Trial	Total Patients: 144 Severity: not available Age: not available	PO-SCORAD scores showed significant improvement that lasted for at least 3 months
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy helped reduce the need for steroid creams in 70% of eczema patients. About half of the patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after treatment. The therapy also reduced the need for oral steroids and antihistamines. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is associated with a reduction in topical corticosteroid and clinical improvement in atopic dermatitis: a historical inception cohort study (2021)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 844 Severity: not available Age: not available	70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Phototherapy helps reduce the need for topical steroid creams. One large study found that 70% of patients needed significantly less topical steroids in the 12 months after phototherapy treatment.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy helped reduce the need for steroid creams in 70% of eczema patients. About half of the patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after treatment. The therapy also reduced the need for oral steroids and antihistamines. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is associated with a reduction in topical corticosteroid and clinical improvement in atopic dermatitis: a historical inception cohort study (2021)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 844 Severity: not available Age: not available	70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Both types of light therapy (narrowband UVB alone or combined with UVA) were equally effective in treating chronic atopic dermatitis. The main difference was that patients receiving only narrowband UVB experienced more skin dryness. Efficacy and safety of narrowband ultraviolet B versus combined ultraviolet A/narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis: A randomised double‐blind study (2024)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 19 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity
📄 Narrow-band UVB light therapy was found to be effective and safe for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 4-14 years. The treatment improved symptoms significantly, and these improvements lasted for up to 2 years after treatment ended. Narrowband UV-B phototherapy in childhood atopic dermatitis: efficacy and safety (2017)		Total Patients: 30 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 4-14 years	Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Different types of phototherapy (NB-UVB and UVA-1) appear to have similar effectiveness, though some studies suggest higher doses may work better for people with darker skin types.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Both types of light therapy (narrowband UVB alone or combined with UVA) were equally effective in treating chronic atopic dermatitis. The main difference was that patients receiving only narrowband UVB experienced more skin dryness. Efficacy and safety of narrowband ultraviolet B versus combined ultraviolet A/narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis: A randomised double‐blind study (2024)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 19 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity
📄 UVA1 phototherapy is effective for treating severe atopic dermatitis. High-dose UVA1 treatment works better than medium-dose for patients with darker skin, while both doses work equally well for patients with fair skin. ‘High dose’ vs. ‘medium dose’ UVA1 phototherapy in italian patients with severe atopic dermatitis (2018)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 27 Severity: severe Age: 18+	Both doses improved SCORAD scores, with high dose being significantly more effective in darker skin types (p<0.0001)

Summary:

Study Type:

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 4-14 years

Results:

Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 144

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

PO-SCORAD scores showed significant improvement that lasted for at least 3 months

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 844

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Phototherapy helps reduce the need for topical steroid creams. One large study found that 70% of patients needed significantly less topical steroids in the 12 months after phototherapy treatment.

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 844

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 19

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 4-14 years

Results:

Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Different types of phototherapy (NB-UVB and UVA-1) appear to have similar effectiveness, though some studies suggest higher doses may work better for people with darker skin types.

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 19

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 27

Severity: severe

Age: 18+

Results:

Both doses improved SCORAD scores, with high dose being significantly more effective in darker skin types (p<0.0001)

LOWEST SIDE EFFECTS

Elimination diet (Elimination diet)

Who is this for?:

If your AD is triggered by certain food ingredients

Effectiveness:

Side Effects:

Low

Cost:

Delivery:

Procedure None daily

See Evidence

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Elimination diets can be effective for some patients with atopic dermatitis, with about 60% of patients showing improvement in their skin condition when certain foods are removed from their diet

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 In children with severe eczema and gut symptoms, 61% showed improvement when following an elimination diet. The presence of certain immune cells (IgE-positive cells) in the gut could help predict which children would not respond to an elimination diet. Duodenal IgE-positive cells and elimination diet responsiveness in children with atopic dermatitis	Comparative Study	Total Patients: 31	More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

When food-sensitive patients with atopic dermatitis follow an elimination diet, their allergic responses (measured by IgE antibodies) to problematic foods like eggs or milk decrease over time

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Elimination diets helped improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis who were sensitive to egg or milk. During the elimination diet, both antibodies to these foods and immune cell responses decreased, suggesting the diet was effective. Effect of elimination diets on food-specific IgE antibodies and lymphocyte proliferative responses to food antigens in atopic dermatitis patients exhibiting sensitivity to food allergens	Clinical Trial	Severity: not available Age: not available	Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

While elimination diets may help some patients, it's difficult to predict who will respond well to the diet just based on standard allergy tests (like skin prick tests or blood tests)

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 In children with severe eczema and gut symptoms, 61% showed improvement when following an elimination diet. The presence of certain immune cells (IgE-positive cells) in the gut could help predict which children would not respond to an elimination diet. Duodenal IgE-positive cells and elimination diet responsiveness in children with atopic dermatitis	Comparative Study	Total Patients: 31	More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet
📄 There is limited scientific evidence that elimination diets help with atopic dermatitis, except in cases where specific food allergies have been confirmed. Food elimination should only be done under medical supervision to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Elimination diet and intestinal permeability in atopic eczema: a preliminary study	Comparative Study

Patients who show improvement with elimination diets often experience a reduction in both skin symptoms and internal immune responses

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Elimination diets helped improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis who were sensitive to egg or milk. During the elimination diet, both antibodies to these foods and immune cell responses decreased, suggesting the diet was effective. Effect of elimination diets on food-specific IgE antibodies and lymphocyte proliferative responses to food antigens in atopic dermatitis patients exhibiting sensitivity to food allergens	Clinical Trial	Severity: not available Age: not available	Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms
📄 There is limited scientific evidence that elimination diets help with atopic dermatitis, except in cases where specific food allergies have been confirmed. Food elimination should only be done under medical supervision to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Elimination diet and intestinal permeability in atopic eczema: a preliminary study	Comparative Study

Elimination diets can be effective for some patients with atopic dermatitis, with about 60% of patients showing improvement in their skin condition when certain foods are removed from their diet

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 31

Results:

More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

When food-sensitive patients with atopic dermatitis follow an elimination diet, their allergic responses (measured by IgE antibodies) to problematic foods like eggs or milk decrease over time

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

While elimination diets may help some patients, it's difficult to predict who will respond well to the diet just based on standard allergy tests (like skin prick tests or blood tests)

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 31

Results:

More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Results:

Patients who show improvement with elimination diets often experience a reduction in both skin symptoms and internal immune responses

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Results:

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT)

Who is this for?:

If your AD is related to allergies and other treatment-options are exhausted

If your AD is related to allergies and other treatment-options are exhausted

Effectiveness:

Side Effects:

Medium

Cost:

Share Cost of Medication

Delivery:

Injection weekly

See Evidence
Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

All Procedure Treatments

Treatment

Who is this for?

Delivery

Effectiveness

Side Effects

Estimated Cost

HIGHEST EFFICACY IN CATEGORY

Phototherapy

(UV-A, Narrowband UV-B)

If your child wishes to avoid or reduce reliance on topical and drug treatments

If you wish to avoid or reduce reliance on topical and drug treatments

Light exposure 2-3 times per week

Medium

Side Effect	Affected
Skin redness
Skin dryness

$325 per month

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Narrow-band UVB light therapy was found to be effective and safe for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 4-14 years. The treatment improved symptoms significantly, and these improvements lasted for up to 2 years after treatment ended. Narrowband UV-B phototherapy in childhood atopic dermatitis: efficacy and safety (2017)		Total Patients: 30 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 4-14 years	Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy improved symptoms and quality of life for atopic dermatitis patients, with benefits lasting up to 3 months after treatment. The treatment caused only mild side effects like slight redness and burning. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy improves quality of life of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis patients up to 3 months: Results from an observational multicenter study (2019)	Clinical Trial	Total Patients: 144 Severity: not available Age: not available	PO-SCORAD scores showed significant improvement that lasted for at least 3 months
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy helped reduce the need for steroid creams in 70% of eczema patients. About half of the patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after treatment. The therapy also reduced the need for oral steroids and antihistamines. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is associated with a reduction in topical corticosteroid and clinical improvement in atopic dermatitis: a historical inception cohort study (2021)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 844 Severity: not available Age: not available	70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Phototherapy helps reduce the need for topical steroid creams. One large study found that 70% of patients needed significantly less topical steroids in the 12 months after phototherapy treatment.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy helped reduce the need for steroid creams in 70% of eczema patients. About half of the patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after treatment. The therapy also reduced the need for oral steroids and antihistamines. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is associated with a reduction in topical corticosteroid and clinical improvement in atopic dermatitis: a historical inception cohort study (2021)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 844 Severity: not available Age: not available	70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Both types of light therapy (narrowband UVB alone or combined with UVA) were equally effective in treating chronic atopic dermatitis. The main difference was that patients receiving only narrowband UVB experienced more skin dryness. Efficacy and safety of narrowband ultraviolet B versus combined ultraviolet A/narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis: A randomised double‐blind study (2024)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 19 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity
📄 Narrow-band UVB light therapy was found to be effective and safe for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 4-14 years. The treatment improved symptoms significantly, and these improvements lasted for up to 2 years after treatment ended. Narrowband UV-B phototherapy in childhood atopic dermatitis: efficacy and safety (2017)		Total Patients: 30 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 4-14 years	Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Different types of phototherapy (NB-UVB and UVA-1) appear to have similar effectiveness, though some studies suggest higher doses may work better for people with darker skin types.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Both types of light therapy (narrowband UVB alone or combined with UVA) were equally effective in treating chronic atopic dermatitis. The main difference was that patients receiving only narrowband UVB experienced more skin dryness. Efficacy and safety of narrowband ultraviolet B versus combined ultraviolet A/narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis: A randomised double‐blind study (2024)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 19 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity
📄 UVA1 phototherapy is effective for treating severe atopic dermatitis. High-dose UVA1 treatment works better than medium-dose for patients with darker skin, while both doses work equally well for patients with fair skin. ‘High dose’ vs. ‘medium dose’ UVA1 phototherapy in italian patients with severe atopic dermatitis (2018)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 27 Severity: severe Age: 18+	Both doses improved SCORAD scores, with high dose being significantly more effective in darker skin types (p<0.0001)

Summary:

Study Type:

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 4-14 years

Results:

Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 144

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

PO-SCORAD scores showed significant improvement that lasted for at least 3 months

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 844

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Phototherapy helps reduce the need for topical steroid creams. One large study found that 70% of patients needed significantly less topical steroids in the 12 months after phototherapy treatment.

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 844

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 19

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 4-14 years

Results:

Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Different types of phototherapy (NB-UVB and UVA-1) appear to have similar effectiveness, though some studies suggest higher doses may work better for people with darker skin types.

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 19

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 27

Severity: severe

Age: 18+

Results:

Both doses improved SCORAD scores, with high dose being significantly more effective in darker skin types (p<0.0001)

LOWEST SIDE EFFECTS

Elimination diet

(Elimination diet)

If your AD is triggered by certain food ingredients

Procedure daily

Low

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Elimination diets can be effective for some patients with atopic dermatitis, with about 60% of patients showing improvement in their skin condition when certain foods are removed from their diet

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 In children with severe eczema and gut symptoms, 61% showed improvement when following an elimination diet. The presence of certain immune cells (IgE-positive cells) in the gut could help predict which children would not respond to an elimination diet. Duodenal IgE-positive cells and elimination diet responsiveness in children with atopic dermatitis	Comparative Study	Total Patients: 31	More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

When food-sensitive patients with atopic dermatitis follow an elimination diet, their allergic responses (measured by IgE antibodies) to problematic foods like eggs or milk decrease over time

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Elimination diets helped improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis who were sensitive to egg or milk. During the elimination diet, both antibodies to these foods and immune cell responses decreased, suggesting the diet was effective. Effect of elimination diets on food-specific IgE antibodies and lymphocyte proliferative responses to food antigens in atopic dermatitis patients exhibiting sensitivity to food allergens	Clinical Trial	Severity: not available Age: not available	Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

While elimination diets may help some patients, it's difficult to predict who will respond well to the diet just based on standard allergy tests (like skin prick tests or blood tests)

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 In children with severe eczema and gut symptoms, 61% showed improvement when following an elimination diet. The presence of certain immune cells (IgE-positive cells) in the gut could help predict which children would not respond to an elimination diet. Duodenal IgE-positive cells and elimination diet responsiveness in children with atopic dermatitis	Comparative Study	Total Patients: 31	More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet
📄 There is limited scientific evidence that elimination diets help with atopic dermatitis, except in cases where specific food allergies have been confirmed. Food elimination should only be done under medical supervision to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Elimination diet and intestinal permeability in atopic eczema: a preliminary study	Comparative Study

Patients who show improvement with elimination diets often experience a reduction in both skin symptoms and internal immune responses

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Elimination diets helped improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis who were sensitive to egg or milk. During the elimination diet, both antibodies to these foods and immune cell responses decreased, suggesting the diet was effective. Effect of elimination diets on food-specific IgE antibodies and lymphocyte proliferative responses to food antigens in atopic dermatitis patients exhibiting sensitivity to food allergens	Clinical Trial	Severity: not available Age: not available	Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms
📄 There is limited scientific evidence that elimination diets help with atopic dermatitis, except in cases where specific food allergies have been confirmed. Food elimination should only be done under medical supervision to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Elimination diet and intestinal permeability in atopic eczema: a preliminary study	Comparative Study

Elimination diets can be effective for some patients with atopic dermatitis, with about 60% of patients showing improvement in their skin condition when certain foods are removed from their diet

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 31

Results:

More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

When food-sensitive patients with atopic dermatitis follow an elimination diet, their allergic responses (measured by IgE antibodies) to problematic foods like eggs or milk decrease over time

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

While elimination diets may help some patients, it's difficult to predict who will respond well to the diet just based on standard allergy tests (like skin prick tests or blood tests)

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 31

Results:

More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Results:

Patients who show improvement with elimination diets often experience a reduction in both skin symptoms and internal immune responses

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Results:

Allergen-specific immunotherapy

(AIT)

If your AD is related to allergies and other treatment-options are exhausted

Injection weekly

Medium

Side Effect	Affected
slight adverse events
Nausea
Abdominal pain
Rhinitis aggravation

Share Cost of Medication

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Acupuncture

(Acupuncture)

If you are looking to add an alternative treatment to your regimen

Procedure weekly

Low

$400 per month

($500 - $300)

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Acupuncture appears to be effective at reducing itch intensity and symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis, with twice-weekly treatments for 4 weeks showing significant improvements compared to sham (placebo) acupuncture

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Acupuncture treatment performed 2-3 times weekly for 4 weeks improved symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. Both itch and sleep improved with real acupuncture compared to sham acupuncture. Acupuncture improves symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis: A randomized, sham-controlled preliminary trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 30	Both twice-weekly and thrice-weekly acupuncture improved symptoms compared to sham acupuncture

Acupuncture can help reduce both immediate itch symptoms (when applied during an itch episode) and prevent future itch episodes, with immediate treatment showing stronger effects for reducing itch intensity

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Acupuncture was effective at reducing itch in patients with atopic dermatitis. Acupuncture given during an itch episode (abortive) worked better than both preventive acupuncture and the antihistamine cetirizine. Unlike cetirizine, acupuncture did not cause drowsiness or reduced attention. Acupuncture compared with oral antihistamine for type I hypersensitivity itch and skin response in adults with atopic dermatitis: a patient- and examiner-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 20	All active treatments significantly reduced itch compared to no intervention, with abortive acupuncture showing the strongest effect
📄 Acupuncture at specific points significantly reduced itch in patients with atopic eczema compared to placebo acupuncture or no treatment. The treatment also reduced skin reactions to allergens when given preventively. Influence of acupuncture on type I hypersensitivity itch and the wheal and flare response in adults with atopic eczema - a blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 30 Severity: not available Age: not available	True acupuncture significantly reduced itch intensity both immediately and preventively

Acupuncture appears to be as effective as antihistamine medications (like cetirizine) for reducing itch, but without causing drowsiness or reduced attention that are common side effects of antihistamines

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Acupuncture was effective at reducing itch in patients with atopic dermatitis. Acupuncture given during an itch episode (abortive) worked better than both preventive acupuncture and the antihistamine cetirizine. Unlike cetirizine, acupuncture did not cause drowsiness or reduced attention. Acupuncture compared with oral antihistamine for type I hypersensitivity itch and skin response in adults with atopic dermatitis: a patient- and examiner-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 20	All active treatments significantly reduced itch compared to no intervention, with abortive acupuncture showing the strongest effect

Acupuncture treatment is generally safe, with only mild and rare side effects reported like temporary numbness or mild discomfort

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Acupuncture treatment performed 2-3 times weekly for 4 weeks improved symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. Both itch and sleep improved with real acupuncture compared to sham acupuncture. Acupuncture improves symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis: A randomized, sham-controlled preliminary trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 30	Both twice-weekly and thrice-weekly acupuncture improved symptoms compared to sham acupuncture

Summary:

Acupuncture treatment performed 2-3 times weekly for 4 weeks improved symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. Both itch and sleep improved with real acupuncture compared to sham acupuncture.

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Results:

Both twice-weekly and thrice-weekly acupuncture improved symptoms compared to sham acupuncture

Summary:

Acupuncture was effective at reducing itch in patients with atopic dermatitis. Acupuncture given during an itch episode (abortive) worked better than both preventive acupuncture and the antihistamine cetirizine. Unlike cetirizine, acupuncture did not cause drowsiness or reduced attention.

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 20

Results:

All active treatments significantly reduced itch compared to no intervention, with abortive acupuncture showing the strongest effect

Summary:

Acupuncture at specific points significantly reduced itch in patients with atopic eczema compared to placebo acupuncture or no treatment. The treatment also reduced skin reactions to allergens when given preventively.

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

True acupuncture significantly reduced itch intensity both immediately and preventively

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 20

Results:

All active treatments significantly reduced itch compared to no intervention, with abortive acupuncture showing the strongest effect

Acupuncture treatment is generally safe, with only mild and rare side effects reported like temporary numbness or mild discomfort

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Results:

Both twice-weekly and thrice-weekly acupuncture improved symptoms compared to sham acupuncture

Bleach baths

(Sodium hypochlorite)

Add-on to other treatments if you experience frequent skin infections

Procedure weekly

Low

Side Effect	Affected
Stinging and burning
Itching

$36 per month

($15 - $60)

Get This Treatment

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The effectiveness of bleach baths for treating eczema shows mixed results. While some studies show improvement in symptoms, others found bleach baths were not more effective than plain water baths in reducing bacteria or improving eczema severity.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Bleach baths taken twice weekly for 4 weeks were not more effective than regular water baths in treating moderate-to-severe eczema. While bleach baths did reduce the need for topical steroids and antibiotics, water baths actually showed better improvement in the affected skin area. Efficacy of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) baths to reduce Staphylococcus aureus colonization in childhood onset moderate-to-severe eczema: A randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over trial (2016)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 40 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Water baths were more effective than bleach baths in reducing affected area
📄 The study found that using steroid cream alone was enough to normalize the bacteria on eczema-affected skin. Adding bleach baths to the treatment didn't provide additional benefits for changing the skin bacteria composition. Cutaneous microbiome effects of fluticasone propionate cream and adjunctive bleach baths in childhood atopic dermatitis. (2016)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 35 Severity: not available Age: children (age range not specified)	Adding bleach baths to steroid cream treatment did not provide additional benefits for normalizing skin bacteria

Bleach body wash (0.006% sodium hypochlorite) may be a more convenient alternative to bleach baths. Studies showed the body wash improved symptoms and reduced the need for topical steroids, with patients preferring it over traditional bleach baths.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 A body wash containing diluted bleach (sodium hypochlorite) improved eczema symptoms in children with moderate-to-severe eczema who had Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin. Patients preferred using the body wash over traditional bleach baths, and they needed to use less steroid cream during the study. Sodium hypochlorite body wash in the management of Staphylococcus aureus–colonized moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis in infants, children, and adolescents (2019)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 50 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 6 months-17 years	Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity

Bleach treatments appear to work through multiple mechanisms beyond just killing bacteria. They may have direct anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 A body wash containing diluted bleach (sodium hypochlorite) improved eczema symptoms in children with moderate-to-severe eczema who had Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin. Patients preferred using the body wash over traditional bleach baths, and they needed to use less steroid cream during the study. Sodium hypochlorite body wash in the management of Staphylococcus aureus–colonized moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis in infants, children, and adolescents (2019)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 50 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 6 months-17 years	Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity
📄 The study found that using steroid cream alone was enough to normalize the bacteria on eczema-affected skin. Adding bleach baths to the treatment didn't provide additional benefits for changing the skin bacteria composition. Cutaneous microbiome effects of fluticasone propionate cream and adjunctive bleach baths in childhood atopic dermatitis. (2016)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 35 Severity: not available Age: children (age range not specified)	Adding bleach baths to steroid cream treatment did not provide additional benefits for normalizing skin bacteria

Bleach treatments are generally well-tolerated and safe, with no significant adverse effects on skin barrier function reported.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 A body wash containing diluted bleach (sodium hypochlorite) improved eczema symptoms in children with moderate-to-severe eczema who had Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin. Patients preferred using the body wash over traditional bleach baths, and they needed to use less steroid cream during the study. Sodium hypochlorite body wash in the management of Staphylococcus aureus–colonized moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis in infants, children, and adolescents (2019)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 50 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 6 months-17 years	Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity
📄 Bleach baths taken twice weekly for 4 weeks were not more effective than regular water baths in treating moderate-to-severe eczema. While bleach baths did reduce the need for topical steroids and antibiotics, water baths actually showed better improvement in the affected skin area. Efficacy of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) baths to reduce Staphylococcus aureus colonization in childhood onset moderate-to-severe eczema: A randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over trial (2016)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 40 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Water baths were more effective than bleach baths in reducing affected area

Summary:

Bleach baths taken twice weekly for 4 weeks were not more effective than regular water baths in treating moderate-to-severe eczema. While bleach baths did reduce the need for topical steroids and antibiotics, water baths actually showed better improvement in the affected skin area.

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 40

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Water baths were more effective than bleach baths in reducing affected area

Summary:

The study found that using steroid cream alone was enough to normalize the bacteria on eczema-affected skin. Adding bleach baths to the treatment didn't provide additional benefits for changing the skin bacteria composition.

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 35

Severity: not available

Age: children (age range not specified)

Results:

Adding bleach baths to steroid cream treatment did not provide additional benefits for normalizing skin bacteria

Summary:

A body wash containing diluted bleach (sodium hypochlorite) improved eczema symptoms in children with moderate-to-severe eczema who had Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin. Patients preferred using the body wash over traditional bleach baths, and they needed to use less steroid cream during the study.

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 50

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 6 months-17 years

Results:

Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity

Bleach treatments appear to work through multiple mechanisms beyond just killing bacteria. They may have direct anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 50

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 6 months-17 years

Results:

Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 35

Severity: not available

Age: children (age range not specified)

Results:

Adding bleach baths to steroid cream treatment did not provide additional benefits for normalizing skin bacteria

Bleach treatments are generally well-tolerated and safe, with no significant adverse effects on skin barrier function reported.

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 50

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 6 months-17 years

Results:

Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 40

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Water baths were more effective than bleach baths in reducing affected area

HIGHEST EFFICACY IN CATEGORY

Phototherapy (UV-A, Narrowband UV-B)

Who is this for?:

If you wish to avoid or reduce reliance on topical and drug treatments

If your child wishes to avoid or reduce reliance on topical and drug treatments

Effectiveness:

Side Effects:

Medium

Cost:

$325 per month

Delivery:

Light exposure 2-3 times per week

See Evidence

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Narrow-band UVB light therapy was found to be effective and safe for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 4-14 years. The treatment improved symptoms significantly, and these improvements lasted for up to 2 years after treatment ended. Narrowband UV-B phototherapy in childhood atopic dermatitis: efficacy and safety (2017)		Total Patients: 30 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 4-14 years	Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy improved symptoms and quality of life for atopic dermatitis patients, with benefits lasting up to 3 months after treatment. The treatment caused only mild side effects like slight redness and burning. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy improves quality of life of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis patients up to 3 months: Results from an observational multicenter study (2019)	Clinical Trial	Total Patients: 144 Severity: not available Age: not available	PO-SCORAD scores showed significant improvement that lasted for at least 3 months
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy helped reduce the need for steroid creams in 70% of eczema patients. About half of the patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after treatment. The therapy also reduced the need for oral steroids and antihistamines. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is associated with a reduction in topical corticosteroid and clinical improvement in atopic dermatitis: a historical inception cohort study (2021)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 844 Severity: not available Age: not available	70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Phototherapy helps reduce the need for topical steroid creams. One large study found that 70% of patients needed significantly less topical steroids in the 12 months after phototherapy treatment.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Narrowband UVB light therapy helped reduce the need for steroid creams in 70% of eczema patients. About half of the patients achieved clear or almost clear skin after treatment. The therapy also reduced the need for oral steroids and antihistamines. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is associated with a reduction in topical corticosteroid and clinical improvement in atopic dermatitis: a historical inception cohort study (2021)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 844 Severity: not available Age: not available	70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Both types of light therapy (narrowband UVB alone or combined with UVA) were equally effective in treating chronic atopic dermatitis. The main difference was that patients receiving only narrowband UVB experienced more skin dryness. Efficacy and safety of narrowband ultraviolet B versus combined ultraviolet A/narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis: A randomised double‐blind study (2024)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 19 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity
📄 Narrow-band UVB light therapy was found to be effective and safe for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 4-14 years. The treatment improved symptoms significantly, and these improvements lasted for up to 2 years after treatment ended. Narrowband UV-B phototherapy in childhood atopic dermatitis: efficacy and safety (2017)		Total Patients: 30 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 4-14 years	Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Different types of phototherapy (NB-UVB and UVA-1) appear to have similar effectiveness, though some studies suggest higher doses may work better for people with darker skin types.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Both types of light therapy (narrowband UVB alone or combined with UVA) were equally effective in treating chronic atopic dermatitis. The main difference was that patients receiving only narrowband UVB experienced more skin dryness. Efficacy and safety of narrowband ultraviolet B versus combined ultraviolet A/narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis: A randomised double‐blind study (2024)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 19 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity
📄 UVA1 phototherapy is effective for treating severe atopic dermatitis. High-dose UVA1 treatment works better than medium-dose for patients with darker skin, while both doses work equally well for patients with fair skin. ‘High dose’ vs. ‘medium dose’ UVA1 phototherapy in italian patients with severe atopic dermatitis (2018)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 27 Severity: severe Age: 18+	Both doses improved SCORAD scores, with high dose being significantly more effective in darker skin types (p<0.0001)

Summary:

Study Type:

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 4-14 years

Results:

Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 144

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

PO-SCORAD scores showed significant improvement that lasted for at least 3 months

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 844

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Phototherapy helps reduce the need for topical steroid creams. One large study found that 70% of patients needed significantly less topical steroids in the 12 months after phototherapy treatment.

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 844

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

70% of patients needed less topical steroids after treatment

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 19

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 4-14 years

Results:

Treatment improved AD symptoms significantly and maintained improvement for 2 years

Different types of phototherapy (NB-UVB and UVA-1) appear to have similar effectiveness, though some studies suggest higher doses may work better for people with darker skin types.

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 19

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Both types of light therapy were effective in improving eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 27

Severity: severe

Age: 18+

Results:

Both doses improved SCORAD scores, with high dose being significantly more effective in darker skin types (p<0.0001)

LOWEST SIDE EFFECTS

Elimination diet (Elimination diet)

Who is this for?:

If your AD is triggered by certain food ingredients

Effectiveness:

Side Effects:

Low

Cost:

Delivery:

Procedure None daily

See Evidence

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Elimination diets can be effective for some patients with atopic dermatitis, with about 60% of patients showing improvement in their skin condition when certain foods are removed from their diet

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 In children with severe eczema and gut symptoms, 61% showed improvement when following an elimination diet. The presence of certain immune cells (IgE-positive cells) in the gut could help predict which children would not respond to an elimination diet. Duodenal IgE-positive cells and elimination diet responsiveness in children with atopic dermatitis	Comparative Study	Total Patients: 31	More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

When food-sensitive patients with atopic dermatitis follow an elimination diet, their allergic responses (measured by IgE antibodies) to problematic foods like eggs or milk decrease over time

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Elimination diets helped improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis who were sensitive to egg or milk. During the elimination diet, both antibodies to these foods and immune cell responses decreased, suggesting the diet was effective. Effect of elimination diets on food-specific IgE antibodies and lymphocyte proliferative responses to food antigens in atopic dermatitis patients exhibiting sensitivity to food allergens	Clinical Trial	Severity: not available Age: not available	Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

While elimination diets may help some patients, it's difficult to predict who will respond well to the diet just based on standard allergy tests (like skin prick tests or blood tests)

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 In children with severe eczema and gut symptoms, 61% showed improvement when following an elimination diet. The presence of certain immune cells (IgE-positive cells) in the gut could help predict which children would not respond to an elimination diet. Duodenal IgE-positive cells and elimination diet responsiveness in children with atopic dermatitis	Comparative Study	Total Patients: 31	More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet
📄 There is limited scientific evidence that elimination diets help with atopic dermatitis, except in cases where specific food allergies have been confirmed. Food elimination should only be done under medical supervision to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Elimination diet and intestinal permeability in atopic eczema: a preliminary study	Comparative Study

Patients who show improvement with elimination diets often experience a reduction in both skin symptoms and internal immune responses

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Elimination diets helped improve symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis who were sensitive to egg or milk. During the elimination diet, both antibodies to these foods and immune cell responses decreased, suggesting the diet was effective. Effect of elimination diets on food-specific IgE antibodies and lymphocyte proliferative responses to food antigens in atopic dermatitis patients exhibiting sensitivity to food allergens	Clinical Trial	Severity: not available Age: not available	Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms
📄 There is limited scientific evidence that elimination diets help with atopic dermatitis, except in cases where specific food allergies have been confirmed. Food elimination should only be done under medical supervision to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Elimination diet and intestinal permeability in atopic eczema: a preliminary study	Comparative Study

Elimination diets can be effective for some patients with atopic dermatitis, with about 60% of patients showing improvement in their skin condition when certain foods are removed from their diet

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 31

Results:

More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

When food-sensitive patients with atopic dermatitis follow an elimination diet, their allergic responses (measured by IgE antibodies) to problematic foods like eggs or milk decrease over time

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

While elimination diets may help some patients, it's difficult to predict who will respond well to the diet just based on standard allergy tests (like skin prick tests or blood tests)

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 31

Results:

More than half of the children showed improvement with elimination diet

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Results:

Patients who show improvement with elimination diets often experience a reduction in both skin symptoms and internal immune responses

Summary:

Study Type:

Clinical Trial

Studied Population:

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

Elimination diet led to improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms

Summary:

Study Type:

Comparative Study

Studied Population:

Results:

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT)

Who is this for?:

If your AD is related to allergies and other treatment-options are exhausted

If your AD is related to allergies and other treatment-options are exhausted

Effectiveness:

Side Effects:

Medium

Cost:

Share Cost of Medication

Delivery:

Injection weekly

See Evidence
Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Acupuncture (Acupuncture)

Who is this for?:

If you are looking to add an alternative treatment to your regimen

Effectiveness:

Side Effects:

Low

Cost:

$400 per month

Delivery:

Procedure weekly

See Evidence

Discuss with a Dermatologist

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Acupuncture treatment performed 2-3 times weekly for 4 weeks improved symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. Both itch and sleep improved with real acupuncture compared to sham acupuncture. Acupuncture improves symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis: A randomized, sham-controlled preliminary trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 30	Both twice-weekly and thrice-weekly acupuncture improved symptoms compared to sham acupuncture

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Acupuncture was effective at reducing itch in patients with atopic dermatitis. Acupuncture given during an itch episode (abortive) worked better than both preventive acupuncture and the antihistamine cetirizine. Unlike cetirizine, acupuncture did not cause drowsiness or reduced attention. Acupuncture compared with oral antihistamine for type I hypersensitivity itch and skin response in adults with atopic dermatitis: a patient- and examiner-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 20	All active treatments significantly reduced itch compared to no intervention, with abortive acupuncture showing the strongest effect
📄 Acupuncture at specific points significantly reduced itch in patients with atopic eczema compared to placebo acupuncture or no treatment. The treatment also reduced skin reactions to allergens when given preventively. Influence of acupuncture on type I hypersensitivity itch and the wheal and flare response in adults with atopic eczema - a blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 30 Severity: not available Age: not available	True acupuncture significantly reduced itch intensity both immediately and preventively

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Acupuncture was effective at reducing itch in patients with atopic dermatitis. Acupuncture given during an itch episode (abortive) worked better than both preventive acupuncture and the antihistamine cetirizine. Unlike cetirizine, acupuncture did not cause drowsiness or reduced attention. Acupuncture compared with oral antihistamine for type I hypersensitivity itch and skin response in adults with atopic dermatitis: a patient- and examiner-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 20	All active treatments significantly reduced itch compared to no intervention, with abortive acupuncture showing the strongest effect

Acupuncture treatment is generally safe, with only mild and rare side effects reported like temporary numbness or mild discomfort

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Acupuncture treatment performed 2-3 times weekly for 4 weeks improved symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. Both itch and sleep improved with real acupuncture compared to sham acupuncture. Acupuncture improves symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis: A randomized, sham-controlled preliminary trial	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 30	Both twice-weekly and thrice-weekly acupuncture improved symptoms compared to sham acupuncture

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Results:

Both twice-weekly and thrice-weekly acupuncture improved symptoms compared to sham acupuncture

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 20

Results:

All active treatments significantly reduced itch compared to no intervention, with abortive acupuncture showing the strongest effect

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Severity: not available

Age: not available

Results:

True acupuncture significantly reduced itch intensity both immediately and preventively

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 20

Results:

All active treatments significantly reduced itch compared to no intervention, with abortive acupuncture showing the strongest effect

Acupuncture treatment is generally safe, with only mild and rare side effects reported like temporary numbness or mild discomfort

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 30

Results:

Both twice-weekly and thrice-weekly acupuncture improved symptoms compared to sham acupuncture

Bleach baths (Sodium hypochlorite)

Who is this for?:

Add-on to other treatments if you experience frequent skin infections

Effectiveness:

Side Effects:

Low

Cost:

$36 per month

Delivery:

Procedure weekly

See Evidence

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 Bleach baths taken twice weekly for 4 weeks were not more effective than regular water baths in treating moderate-to-severe eczema. While bleach baths did reduce the need for topical steroids and antibiotics, water baths actually showed better improvement in the affected skin area. Efficacy of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) baths to reduce Staphylococcus aureus colonization in childhood onset moderate-to-severe eczema: A randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over trial (2016)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 40 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Water baths were more effective than bleach baths in reducing affected area
📄 The study found that using steroid cream alone was enough to normalize the bacteria on eczema-affected skin. Adding bleach baths to the treatment didn't provide additional benefits for changing the skin bacteria composition. Cutaneous microbiome effects of fluticasone propionate cream and adjunctive bleach baths in childhood atopic dermatitis. (2016)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 35 Severity: not available Age: children (age range not specified)	Adding bleach baths to steroid cream treatment did not provide additional benefits for normalizing skin bacteria

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 A body wash containing diluted bleach (sodium hypochlorite) improved eczema symptoms in children with moderate-to-severe eczema who had Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin. Patients preferred using the body wash over traditional bleach baths, and they needed to use less steroid cream during the study. Sodium hypochlorite body wash in the management of Staphylococcus aureus–colonized moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis in infants, children, and adolescents (2019)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 50 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 6 months-17 years	Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity

Bleach treatments appear to work through multiple mechanisms beyond just killing bacteria. They may have direct anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 A body wash containing diluted bleach (sodium hypochlorite) improved eczema symptoms in children with moderate-to-severe eczema who had Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin. Patients preferred using the body wash over traditional bleach baths, and they needed to use less steroid cream during the study. Sodium hypochlorite body wash in the management of Staphylococcus aureus–colonized moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis in infants, children, and adolescents (2019)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 50 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 6 months-17 years	Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity
📄 The study found that using steroid cream alone was enough to normalize the bacteria on eczema-affected skin. Adding bleach baths to the treatment didn't provide additional benefits for changing the skin bacteria composition. Cutaneous microbiome effects of fluticasone propionate cream and adjunctive bleach baths in childhood atopic dermatitis. (2016)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 35 Severity: not available Age: children (age range not specified)	Adding bleach baths to steroid cream treatment did not provide additional benefits for normalizing skin bacteria

Bleach treatments are generally well-tolerated and safe, with no significant adverse effects on skin barrier function reported.

Study Summary	Study Type	Studied Population	Results
📄 A body wash containing diluted bleach (sodium hypochlorite) improved eczema symptoms in children with moderate-to-severe eczema who had Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin. Patients preferred using the body wash over traditional bleach baths, and they needed to use less steroid cream during the study. Sodium hypochlorite body wash in the management of Staphylococcus aureus–colonized moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis in infants, children, and adolescents (2019)	Multicenter Study	Total Patients: 50 Severity: moderate to severe Age: 6 months-17 years	Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity
📄 Bleach baths taken twice weekly for 4 weeks were not more effective than regular water baths in treating moderate-to-severe eczema. While bleach baths did reduce the need for topical steroids and antibiotics, water baths actually showed better improvement in the affected skin area. Efficacy of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) baths to reduce Staphylococcus aureus colonization in childhood onset moderate-to-severe eczema: A randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over trial (2016)	Randomized Controlled Trial	Total Patients: 40 Severity: moderate to severe Age: not available	Water baths were more effective than bleach baths in reducing affected area

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 40

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Water baths were more effective than bleach baths in reducing affected area

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 35

Severity: not available

Age: children (age range not specified)

Results:

Adding bleach baths to steroid cream treatment did not provide additional benefits for normalizing skin bacteria

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 50

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 6 months-17 years

Results:

Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity

Bleach treatments appear to work through multiple mechanisms beyond just killing bacteria. They may have direct anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 50

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 6 months-17 years

Results:

Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 35

Severity: not available

Age: children (age range not specified)

Results:

Adding bleach baths to steroid cream treatment did not provide additional benefits for normalizing skin bacteria

Bleach treatments are generally well-tolerated and safe, with no significant adverse effects on skin barrier function reported.

Summary:

Study Type:

Multicenter Study

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 50

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: 6 months-17 years

Results:

Patients showed improvement in overall eczema severity

Summary:

Study Type:

Randomized Controlled Trial

Studied Population:

Total Patients: 40

Severity: moderate to severe

Age: not available

Results:

Water baths were more effective than bleach baths in reducing affected area

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