Use of moisturizers in dermatologic disease: the role of healthcare providers in optimizing treatment outcomes.

Although atopic dermatitis is a common cutaneous disorder, patients often are frustrated in their attempts to understand the disease and its treatment. Studies have shown that the patient-provider relationship is key to patient compliance with a skin care regimen and that most patients with atopic dermatitis are eager to be well informed. However, many patients fail to receive an adequate explanation of the causes of atopic dermatitis or to be taught how to apply topical treatments, even though instruction and practical demonstrations are associated with a dramatic improvement in the treatment outcome. Efforts to educate patients regarding the use of moisturizers are correlated with clinical improvement and a reduction in the use of topical medications such as corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors. In addition to topical moisturizers, medications, wet wraps, and hydration therapy has become a frequently used practice in the management of atopic dermatitis.