Prescriptions and the eczema management

Aside from steroids, there are also currently two prescription non-steroid topical products. One is Elidel® (pimecrolimus). Elidel is a steroid-free cream for patients aged two years and older who have mild-to-moderate eczema. The other topical immunomodulator is Protopic® (tacrolimus), a steroid-free ointment for patients aged two years and older who have moderate-to-severe eczema. Protopic and Elidel suppress inflammation in a similar way to steroids and is equally as effective as a mid-potency steroid. An important advantage of tacrolimus is that unlike steroids, it does not cause skin thinning or other steroid-related side-effects.

However, immunosuppressants should be used with caution. A small number of patients who had used pimecrolimus cream or another similar medication developed skin cancer or lymphoma (cancer in a part of the immune system). Studies of transplant patients and laboratory animals and an understanding of the way pimecrolimus works suggest that there is the possibility that people who use pimecrolimus cream have a greater risk of developing cancer.  It is crucial to follow your physician's advice when prescribed topical immunomodulators.

While actively managing the symptoms of eczema, it is also important to be aware of eczema triggers. Although there are some common triggers, they tend to vary from one person to another. Effectively avoiding these triggers helps to lower the frequency of flare-ups.

Effective skin hydration plays a key role in restoring healthy skin in eczema patients as well, hence the vast selection of skin moisturizers and creams on the market. A strong moisturizer should deliver long-lasting skin hydration and prevent TEWL (transepidermal water loss). A good moisturizer should not lead to any irritation. The best skin moisturizer will also help to soothe and calm itching and irritation.