What are the first-line topical treatments for managing atopic eczema in children?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 14 August 2025Updated: 14 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

The first-line topical treatments for managing atopic eczema in children are emollients. Emollients should be used regularly, even when the skin is clear, to maintain skin hydration and prevent flares .

Children with atopic eczema should be offered a choice of unperfumed emollients for daily moisturising, with large quantities prescribed for ease of use in various settings .

Emollients are recommended to be applied in larger amounts and more frequently than other treatments, covering the whole body, both during flare and remission ,.

Application should involve smoothing onto the skin rather than rubbing in, and parents or carers should be shown how to do this properly .

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