List of the best hormonal and non-hormonal creams for atopic dermatitis

For various skin problems, you can use Panthenol cream. This remedy also helps with dermatitis, and it can be used for various types of this disease, for example, with atopic or contact form. The main component of the ointment is descpanthenol, which promotes rapid skin restoration.

People of all ages experience symptoms of dermatitis. Children often suffer from this disease, but in adults, inflammation of the skin of various types is common.

It is necessary to treat dermatitis under the guidance of a dermatologist, since it is very important to identify and eliminate the cause of the disease. One of the frequently prescribed remedies for various forms of the disease is Panthenol cream.

Indications for use

The use of ointments for the treatment of dermatitis of an allergic nature is justified at the acute stage, when the main symptoms of the disease are observed:

• the surface of the skin becomes dry, rough,
• unbearable itching appears,
• tissue swelling develops,
• red spots with clearly defined edges form,
• Plaques appear on the surface of the epidermis, which, after damage, lead to the development of painful erosions.

The appearance of the above symptoms is a reason to consult a doctor, since many of them are present during the development of other diseases.

Release form

Creams and ointments are considered one of the best pharmacological forms of topical medications for the treatment of dermatological problems. These products have significant differences that you need to know before using.

Ointment

Contains a large amount of fat. After application, deep penetration of the active ingredients into the skin is ensured, which allows you to achieve good results. This form is especially effective in helping with dry skin rashes.

A significant drawback of ointments is that they can contaminate clothes, which is why they are not always convenient to use . It is also not recommended to use ointments to treat weeping wounds.

Cream

The beneficial oils and water contained in its composition are quickly absorbed into the skin, moisturizing it, so there is no greasy shine, and you don’t have to worry about dirty clothes.

The disadvantage of this form of drug release is the smaller depth of penetration of the active substance . Therefore, it is not recommended for use during exacerbation of dermatitis. Creams can be used for moderately weeping wounds.

The best creams and ointments for dermatitis

Based on consumer reviews, you can choose the best creams and ointments for various types of dermatitis, which have been tested by patients in practice.

Table 5. Review of drugs that definitely help in the fight against the disease according to consumers.

Hormonal ointments

You can be treated with any hormonal ointments only after the recommendation of a doctor. They are used in extreme cases when other means have not brought the desired result.

Incorrect or prolonged use of hormonal drugs leads to hyperpigmentation, atrophy of the epidermis, and causes disruption of the adrenal glands.

Doctors recommend treatment with such drugs for a short time, and after the condition improves, gradually switch to safer drugs.

Hydrocortisone

Contains synthetic glucocorticosteroids. After external use of the product, a decongestant, antipruritic effect is observed, and inflammation is eliminated. Hydrocortisone is not recommended for long-term use (no longer than 14, sometimes 20 days).

Celestoderm

Contains betamethasone valerate. The drug fights allergic manifestations and reduces inflammation. After application there is no greasy residue or unpleasant aroma on the skin.

Flucinar

The positive effect of using the ointment is observed due to the presence of fluocinolone acetonide in its composition. It helps get rid of severe itching, allergies, and inflammation.

When applied to the skin, it is necessary to avoid contact of the ointment with healthy areas of the body to reduce the likelihood of side effects. Treatment should be especially careful if manifestations of dermatitis are on the face .

Side effects

Side effects may occur depending on the specific drug. This usually happens for two main reasons: individual intolerance to a substance or improper use.

In non-hormonal drugs, the number of side effects is minimized in most cases. Sometimes they are practically absent.

Dermatitis creams containing hormones have more possible negative consequences. And in each medium they are different:

• tissue atrophy, acne, inhibition of the growth of epidermal layers, dryness, hyper- or dipegmentation, increased hair growth, inflammation of hair follicles and (or) skin;
• increase in pressure.
• endocrine system disorders;
• gastrointestinal diseases;
• dilation of blood vessels in the affected areas to which the product was applied;

Non-hormonal agents

The use of non-hormonal ointments is justified by their safety, despite their lower effectiveness compared to products containing hormones.

They can be used to treat children, pregnant and lactating women over a long period of time.

Zinc ointment

An inexpensive but effective remedy, it relieves inflammation and irritation well, and produces a healing effect. Using Zinc Ointment on skin that is too dry or flaky will increase these unpleasant effects.

Before applying the product, it is necessary to thoroughly clean and dry the affected surface. It can be smeared every 2 hours or less, depending on the severity of the inflammatory process.

Ichthyol ointment

A popular non-hormonal ointment containing ichthyol. This substance produces a pronounced antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antipruritic effect. It is important to apply the ointment correctly: rub in until a slight feeling of warmth appears. The advantage of the product is the almost complete absence of side effects .

Sulfuric ointment

The name of this drug is explained by its composition, which includes sulfur, petroleum jelly and specially purified water. The main active substance, after contact with the skin, begins to interact with the organic structures located on it. As a result, compounds are formed that have a pronounced antimicrobial effect.

It is recommended to apply the ointment before bedtime and not wash it off the skin until the next use. Before each manipulation you should take a warm bath.

Heparin ointment

It has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect that lasts long after application to the skin. An additional effect of use is the elimination of blood clots and the prevention of their occurrence. This is relevant if you have problems with blood vessels. With the help of the drug you can significantly reduce itching and pain, since it contains an anesthetic.

The duration of therapy is determined by the doctor . On average it lasts about one week. It is recommended to apply the product no more than three times throughout the day.

Calendula ointment

Made from natural ingredients. Thanks to the presence of calendula extract, a regenerating, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial effect is achieved. When using the drug, your own local defense mechanisms are increased, which allows you to overcome the disease faster.

Despite its natural composition, calendula ointment should be prescribed by a doctor. This especially applies to children, pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Fenistil gel

The drug is used as an antiallergic agent with pronounced antipruritic, anesthetic and anti-inflammatory effects. Due to its structure, the gel begins to work within a few minutes after application. The main advantage of Fenistil gel is the possibility of use for the treatment of infants from one month of age .

Operating principle

The effect of corticosteroid ointments is due to the ability of the hormones they contain to prevent the development of the inflammatory process, due to the ability to disrupt the formation of arachnoidonic acid and its synthesis products.

The antiallergic effect of the drugs is achieved by inhibiting the ability of mast cells to secrete allergy mediators.

That is why a side effect of all hormonal drugs is the ability to suppress the immune system. Ointments in this regard are the safest, since when used correctly they practically do not penetrate into the systemic bloodstream.

Means to accelerate healing

With the development of atopic dermatitis, the patient's skin experiences a moisture deficiency. Therefore, symptoms such as peeling, dryness, and a feeling of tightness come to the fore. Special creams and ointments will help eliminate them and speed up healing.

Bepanten

This is a children's cream for atopic dermatitis that can also be used to treat adults. It is able to heal small wounds, relieve irritation and soften the skin. The positive effect of Bepanten is possible due to the presence of panthenol in its composition.

D-Panthenol

Contains dexpanthenol, which has a pronounced wound-healing effect. After applying the ointment to the skin, it softens, moisturizes, and eliminates irritation. The product is safe, so it is allowed to use it to prevent allergic rashes.

Panthenol

Another drug containing dexpanthenol. It is relatively inexpensive and can be used to treat children of all ages.

Panthenol rarely causes side effects, only in case of individual intolerance.

Bepanten plus

In addition to dexpanthenol, it contains chlorhexidine dihydrochloride. Therefore, it not only has a wound-healing effect, but also produces an antiseptic effect. Using it, you can prevent secondary infection of skin affected by dermatitis.

La Cree

This cream has a softening, moisturizing, regenerating and antimicrobial effect. It is mainly used as part of complex therapy for atopic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. La-Cri is also recommended for the treatment of insect bites, burns and other injuries to the skin.

Facial dermatitis in adults: definition by symptoms

In adults, the disease occurs less frequently than in infants and children, since their immunity is more adapted to irritating environmental factors.

Dermatitis on the face in adulthood can be determined by the following symptoms:

• Itching and burning of the skin. Depending on the type and form of dermatitis, these symptoms have varying intensity and frequency of occurrence.
• Redness of the skin - it takes on a bright red hue. Most often the cheeks turn red.
• Rash on the cheeks, forehead and other areas of the face.
• Dryness and flaking. Depending on the type, peeling may be more or less pronounced.
• Increased temperature in the affected area of ​​the skin. The patient experiences a feeling of heat at the site of dermatitis; when touching this area, the skin is hot.
• Exudation. Small blisters containing exudate, a purulent fluid, form on the skin. When the bubbles burst, the contents spill out. Typically, blisters occur at a later stage of the disease or if treatment is started too late.

Moisturizers

Moisturizing creams that nourish the epidermis and eliminate irritation will help prevent relapse of atopic dermatitis and speed up recovery.

Locobase

Makes dry skin soft and elastic. This cosmetic product helps restore the natural protective barrier of the epidermis, which prevents recurrent outbreaks of the disease. Due to its safe composition and the absence of harmful dyes and flavors, the cream can be used for children .

Ruzam+

Recommended for moisturizing sensitive skin. Additionally, it produces an antipruritic and anti-inflammatory effect. With regular use, it helps prevent the development of allergies.

Antipruritic drugs

Since rashes with atopic dermatitis are often accompanied by unbearable itching, it is advisable to use special antipruritic agents. They not only relieve discomfort, but also prevent secondary infection of the skin.

In addition to the antihistamines described above, Diakhil ointment is used. It helps get rid of itching and has an antiseptic effect. Use as needed, but not more than three times a day.

What else you need to know about treating dermatitis

Since dermatitis can be caused by various reasons, it is important to figure out exactly what external and internal factors provoked the appearance of the skin rash and eliminate them in parallel with drug treatment of the skin, using:

Antihistamine and desensitizing tablets such as Erius and Loratadine to relieve allergic reactions. For the same purposes, intramuscular injections of a 10% calcium gluconate solution are used: usually five injections, performed every other day, are sufficient. If the cause of dermatitis is an allergy, you should stop eating chocolate, chicken, citrus fruits, eggs, nuts and other foods traditionally considered allergenic.

Emollient ointments , for example, Elidel, and in addition, creams that have a moisturizing effect, preferably special dermatological lines “Uriage” - “Xemoz”, “Aven” - “Trikzera”, which should be lubricated with the skin several times a day, and always after washing. By the way, you need to wash the skin affected by dermatitis very carefully, using products that do not contain ingredients that can disrupt the water-fat balance of the skin, for example, soap and gel from the brands Bioderma, Uryazh, H2O-Sensibo (sold in pharmacies).

Hormonal ointments. Typically, Prednisolone, Lorinden, Advantan for dermatitis are used in advanced cases, and products containing corticosteroids are rarely used on the face because of their ability to cause thinning of the skin.

Ointments containing antibiotics. Similar agents are used to eliminate bacterial microflora in the affected area. However, with prolonged use of local antibiotics, bacteria become resistant, and the body responds with an allergic reaction.

Sunscreens. In small quantities, UV rays are beneficial for the skin, but if the skin has manifestations of dermatitis, it should be protected with creams with SPF, and with a factor of at least 50.

Compresses (wet bandages) on the lesions. Relieve itching, clean and slightly dry the surface with herbal extracts and a 3% solution of boric acid. The composition for the compress should be at room temperature; gauze folded in several layers is moistened in it, which is then applied to the affected skin for 15 minutes; During the day, the procedure is repeated 3-4 times. The technique is simple but effective. Decoctions should be prepared from relatively hypoallergenic herbs, which include chamomile, string or oak bark.

Diet for dermatitis. The condition of the skin largely depends on what a person eats. To avoid exacerbation and quickly get rid of the rash, you need to eat fermented milk products and green vegetables that help cleanse the body, as well as cereals rich in B vitamins (for allergic dermatitis, cereals can be included in the diet only after a test analysis for the gluten they contain), but avoid spicy, salty and sweet foods and the above-mentioned foods containing allergens.

Attention! Many people treat dermatitis as a trivial disease and prefer to treat it themselves. This approach cannot be considered correct; moreover, it is dangerous: dermatitis can lead to tissue necrosis and scar formation.

How children are treated

Quite often, atopic dermatitis occurs in children under 2 years of age. This is due to their imperfect immune system, which reacts sharply to external stimuli. It is in children that the disease becomes chronic, which requires long-term treatment.

In acute cases of the disease, the doctor prescribes hormonal ointments - Hydrocortisone, Flucinar. If the main symptoms of the disease have been relieved, emollients and wound healing agents are used - Bepanten, Zinc ointment, Protopic. In case of secondary infection of the skin, drugs with an antibacterial effect will be required - Lincomycin ointment, Dioxidin.

Classification of dermatitis and causes of occurrence

Dermatitis can appear due to the influence of two main factors: external and internal.

Internal reasons include:

• metabolic disease;
• recurrent and (or) chronic diseases.
• heredity. If both parents suffer from the disease, then the probability of passing it on to the child is about 70%. If only one parent was sick, then the risk is reduced to 40%;
• noticeable weakening of the immune system;
• External causes of dermatitis are as follows:

• direct contact with allergenic plants;
• uncontrolled intake of tablets, ointments, creams.
• unprotected use of household chemicals;
• ingestion of allergens from food;
• use of low-quality or inappropriate decorative and (or) skincare cosmetics;

The main classification is based precisely on the causes of the disease.

Types of dermatitis:

• atopic. It is a more serious chronic form of allergic dermatitis. It is distinguished by the wavy nature of the flow. Atopic dermatitis is also called eczema, neurodermatitis, diathesis;
• seborrheic. Occurs in areas of the skin that are rich in sebaceous glands. The cause of the disease is not precisely known. However, it is believed that Malassezia yeast is to blame, causing the development of seborrheic dermatitis.
• allergic. It does not appear immediately. After contact with the irritant, it takes from several hours to 2-3 days.
• allergic contact. Occurs after direct contact with an irritant. A good example here is food allergies;
• hives. The disease is characterized by acute skin damage, which is expressed by the appearance of rashes due to allergies;
• simple contact. Appears instantly. The disease makes itself felt after contact with the sun or cold. Simple contact dermatitis usually occurs in those who suffer from sun and cold allergies;

It is worth highlighting into a separate group types of diseases that differ in the location of the rashes and their appearance.

• food. Manifests itself in the form of eating disorders, weakness, itching, swelling. Does not cause a rash;
• ear As the name suggests, this type of dermatitis affects the ears, or rather the ear canals. The disease is characterized by the appearance of severe itching. It can occur in acute and chronic form.
• infectious. Occurs due to pyogenic bacteria that provoke the formation of purulent ulcers;
• bullous It is distinguished by the appearance of blisters on the skin - bullae. They are filled with bloody or serous contents. The bullae burst after ripening. In their place, ulcers form;
• fungal. The disease appears when the protective function of the skin is impaired. The causative agent is the demodex mite, which has microscopic dimensions;

Contraindications

All ointments and creams used for atopic dermatitis have certain contraindications. Most often, their use is prohibited in the presence of individual intolerance.

Corticosteroids are contraindicated for pregnant women and young children.

Given the wide variety of skin treatment products, you should read the instructions before using them. Any drug is allowed to be used only after visiting a doctor and conducting appropriate diagnostics .