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Treatment options for eczema may depend on the type of eczema being treated, and whether it manifests as dry and scaly lesions, dry and thickened lesions or weeping lesions. In general, the goal is to reduce skin inflammation, dryness and itchiness. Medications such as over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, corticosteroids, antibiotics and antifungal topical creams or ointments may be used. The kinds of treatment are often similar for the different types of eczema. Therefore, in some cases distinguishing between the types is not necessary. Some patients with severe or chronic (ongoing) eczema may wish to consult a dermatologist for treatment.

Other treatments, according to type of eczema, include: 

• Atopic dermatitis. Corticosteroid creams and lotions are used to ease symptoms. Recently, topical medications called immunomodulators have been used to treat atopic dermatitis. They affect the immune system and help maintain normal skin texture while reducing flare-ups. Patients whose skin cracks open may use wet dressings with a mild astringent to help contract the skin, reduce secretions and prevent infection.
  
  
• Contact dermatitis. Avoidance of the source of irritation or allergy is the best treatment. Corticosteroid creams or wet dressings provide moisture to the skin that may relieve redness and itching. It may take up to four weeks for this type of dermatitis to clear.
  
  
• Neurodermatitis. Treatment is focused on getting the patient to avoid scratching or further aggravating the skin. Dressings, corticosteroid lotions and creams, and wet compresses may help soothe skin by reducing inflammation and relieving itch. Sedatives and tranquilizers are also sometimes used to prevent patients from scratching.
  
  
• Seborrheic dermatitis. Patients are instructed to frequently shampoo while also carefully rinsing the scalp. A specific shampoo may be suggested that contains ingredients such as tar, zinc pyrithione and salicylic acid. Corticosteroid creams and lotions may soothe the skin and relieve itching.
  
  
• Stasis dermatitis. Treatment focuses on preventing fluid from accumulating in the ankles and lower legs for extended periods. Patients may have to wear elastic support hose or require varicose vein surgery. Wet dressings can also soften the thickened skin and control infection.
  
  
• Perioral dermatitis. Several months of treatment with oral antibiotics is typically recommended. A mild corticosteroid cream may also be prescribed.
  
  
• Latex dermatitis. Avoidance is the best treatment for latex dermatitis. This entails ensuring that the patient does not use or come into contact with latex-based products.
  
  
• Dyshidrotic dermatitis. Topical corticosteroids are usually used to control mild breakouts. More substantial breakouts can be controlled with oral steroids or treatments of PUVA phototherapy (ultraviolet light).

Patients with eczema may also need antibiotics or other treatments if they are diagnosed with an associated secondary infection.