Ointments for dermatitis: 5 different types and when they are recommended

Also called eczema, dermatitis is an inflammation that affects the skin in different parts of the body. The complication is divided into types, each with specific symptoms and causes, as well as treatments – as some dermatitis can even be caused by food allergies.

Usually, for the relief of symptoms, such as itching and flaking, the application of ointment to the skin is indicated. However, dermatologist Misael do Nascimento emphasizes that any treatment must be administered under medical prescriptionsince many pathologies seen in the office are severe or difficult to control after the patient uses non-recommended ointments.

“There are ointments for more sensitive areas of the body and others for denser areas; ointments with medications, with antibiotics and antifungals, which can worsen a condition, modify an injury and even have a systemic impact. We have to remember that the skin is a permeable organ: what you apply to the skin has an absorption and a greater or lesser systemic effect”, warns the doctor.

In cases of perioral dermatitis, for example, the disease can worsen with the use of corticosteroids – a common ingredient in most skin ointments. In addition, some of the treatments are not indicated during pregnancy, which reinforces the need for a medical diagnosis.

5 most popular ointments and how they work

To better understand the functionality of the ointments available on the market, we have separated some of the most popular ones and how they work in the body. Check out:

1- Ketoconazole

The medicine can be found in different forms, such as shampoo, pill and topical creams. The combination of ketoconazole and betamethasone dipropionate, for example, is used in cases where dermatitis is caused by fungi or yeast. Check the package insert for Ketoconazole + Betamethasone Dipropionate.

2- Ketobeta

The ointment is indicated for conditions caused by sensitive germs, common in some types of dermatitis. The treatment has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antimycotic action. See the package leaflet for Cetobeta.

3- Dexamethasone

The active ingredient in the ointment is a corticosteroid, which helps to cope with the symptoms of inflammatory and itchy skin diseases. Despite causing immediate relief in certain discomforts, such as itching, the duration of treatment is determined by the doctor. See the Dexamethasone package insert.

4- Desonide

The ointment has anti-inflammatory and antipruritic action, helping to avoid symptoms such as itching and swelling. The treatment is indicated only for dry areas, where there are no traces of secretions, such as pus. Check the Desonide leaflet.

5- Diprosalic

The treatment relies on corticosteroids to relieve inflammation in conditions such as psoriasis, chronic atopic dermatitis and dyshidrosis. The ointment also acts antipruritic and vasoconstrictor. Check the Diprosalic leaflet.