Instruct patients to take short baths or showers in lukewarm water and limit the use of soap on axilla, groin, and feet. Recommend bathing on alternate days during the winter. Liberal use of a good skin moisturizer cannot be overemphasized, especially in winter and immediately after bathing or swimming. Stress minimizing contact with cosmetics, deodorants, detergents, solvents, or other known triggers. Methods of corticosteroid delivery Ointments retain the most water in skin while delivering the medication with a minimum of potentially irritating additives or preservatives.
Many patients find the greasy nature of ointments difficult to tolerate.
Lotions are much thinner but trap less water in the skin. They are particularly useful on hair-bearing areas. As the lesions begin to dry, apply a topical steroid. Many dermatologists place patients on an antihistamine, as an adjunct to education, lubrication, and corticosteroids, to control itching. The sedative effects may be more beneficial than its antipruritic properties.