Behavior Modification + Topical Therapy: A Win-Win Approach

Adding a therapy called “behavior modification” to a treatment plan prescribed by a dermatologist may lead to clearer skin. Behavior modification is a technique used to help people change what they do so that they can get better results.

One behavior modification technique that has proven helpful for patients with atopic dermatitis is the combined approach. Used mostly in the United Kingdom, this approach teaches patients techniques that can help them avoid scratching. Patients also receive one-on-one training, usually from a nurse, on how to use moisturizer and their medications.

When tested in research studies, the combined approach produced dramatic results. Without the habitual scratching — people with atopic dermatitis may scratch their skin 500 to 1,000 times per day — and with proper use of topical therapy, even patients with severe long-term atopic dermatitis saw significantly clearer skin.

Bottom line: Avoiding scratching and using medication as directed allows the skin to heal. The combined approach is but one effective technique. To find tips that dermatologists tell their patients to help them reduce scratching, visit Preventing Flare-Ups.

ArticleCourtesy of SkincarePhysicians.com/eczemanet