Is there any complementary therapy to treat atopic dermatitis?

[Poli]

Hello, my friend's 4 year old daughter is suffering from atopic dermatitis. She mentions that she learned from friends that fish oil and evening primrose oil are helpful for AD. Can anyone suggest or provide input on complementary therapies and evidence for use in AD.

[Bubun]

@Poli There is little evidence to demonstrate the efficacy of complementary therapies for use in AD. Some studies have shown, however, that phototherapy may be effective in AD after non-pharmacologic measures and topical corticosteroid use do not work. In pediatric patients specifically, ultraviolet A and B phototherapy have demonstrated efficacy and safety for AD. The guidelines now recommend phototherapy as a treatment option for refractory AD.
Other complementary therapies commonly used include borage, coconut, evening primrose, and fish oils. Despite the widespread use of oils for AD, there are insufficient data to support the use of borage, evening primrose, or fish oil. However, some data do support the use of topical coconut oil in AD