use of topical steroids in atopic eczema in children

Last reviewed 01/2018

  • potency of topical corticosteroids should be tailored to the severity of the child's atopic eczema, which may vary according to body site
    • general principles for treatment with topical eczema are:
      • use mild potency for mild atopic eczema
      • use moderate potency for moderate atopic eczema
      • use potent for severe atopic eczema
      • use mild potency for the face and neck, except for short-term (3-5 days) use of moderate potency for severe flares
      • use moderate or potent preparations for short periods only (7-14 days) for flares in vulnerable sites such as axillae and groin
      • do not use very potent preparations in children without specialist dermatological advice
      • topical corticosteroids should only be used on areas with active atopic eczema (or eczema that has been active within the past 48 hours) (1).

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