5 Home Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis Itch

For many people dry, itchy skin is the main — and most troublesome — symptom of atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema. But scratching can irritate skin and make the condition worse.
Following your treatment plan is the best way to manage atopic dermatitis symptoms, but if you’re still struggling to find itch relief, a solution may literally be close to home.
“Eczema can be difficult to treat, as the skin barrier is altered and needs to be repaired and protected from further damage,” explains Beth Goldstein, MD, a dermatologist at Central Dermatology Center in Chapel Hill and Sanford, North Carolina.
A complementary home remedy can often assist this process and result in less itchy, dry, flaky skin, according to Dr. Goldstein.
“Many of my patients over the years will prefer to avoid steroid treatment for eczema” because of the side effects, she says, and experiment with complementary and alternative treatments. The hope is that natural and home remedies will work in tandem with dermatologist-prescribed treatment to keep symptoms under control.
“These remedies may not quite do the trick but are reasonable to try,” Goldstein notes.
Here are some of the remedies for atopic dermatitis recommended by dermatologists. (Keep in mind that you should always consult your own dermatologist before trying any treatment.)
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1. Natural Oils
“Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer, because it is rich in triglycerides,” explains Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “One of its main constituents is lauric acid, which imparts antibacterial and antifungal properties. Coconut oil also has antioxidant properties.”
2. Oatmeal
“Oatmeal has been used for centuries as a soothing agent to relieve itch and irritation associated with various dry skin conditions,” says Dr. King. “Colloidal oatmeal is a natural complex of lipids, proteins, peptides, and starches that soothes, nourishes, and moisturizes the skin.”
“What makes it effective at soothing the skin are the cellulose and fiber from the oats,” King explains. “These make a skin-softening emollient that is effective against irritation and redness that comes from conditions such as eczema.”
3. Honey
Honey has antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties that may be effective when applied to skin, according to King.
“It’s a humectant, so it helps to hydrate the skin, and it aids in wound healing by maintaining a moist wound environment and providing a protective barrier,” she says. “Honey’s organic acid content provides gentle exfoliation.”
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
5. Aloe Vera
The Takeaway
- Dry, itchy skin tends to be the main symptom of atopic dermatitis, which is the most common type of eczema.
- Besides moisturizers and topical creams, several home remedies may soothe dry, flaky skin.
- Applying coconut oil, oatmeal, honey, apple cider vinegar, or aloe vera to affected skin as a part of your overall treatment plan may help you find relief.

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD
Medical Reviewer
Jacquelyn Dosal, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist practicing at The Dermatology House in Park City, Utah. Her areas of expertise include acne, rosacea, integrative treatments of inflammatory skin diseases, as well as laser treatment of the skin and injectables.
Dr. Dosal writes cosmetic questions for the certifying exams for the American Board of Dermatology. She is also the deputy editor for the American Academy of Dermatology's podcast, Dialogues in Dermatology.

Blake Miller
Author
Blake Miller is a writer and editor whose work has been featured in various national magazines including House Beautiful, Southern Living, Coastal Living, Family Circle, O: The Oprah Magazine, Fast Company, REDBOOK, SELF, Women's Health, Glamour, Forbes.com, ELLEdecor.com, as well as other major regional publications.
She is the co-editor-in-chief of Home Design & Decor magazine. Her specialties are home design, travel, health and fitness, finance, real estate, bridal, and social trend topics. She is based in Charlotte, North Carolina.
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