Can changing skin pH help us control atopic dermatitis?

The therapeutic options for atopic dermatitis (AD) are rapidly evolving as new medications are developed to address patient needs. Systemic medications, such as methotrexate, azathioprine, and cyclosporine, have been used for years; new small molecules such as the Janus kinase inhibitor baricitinib are under development, and dupilumab has already revolutionized the treatment of AD.[1] Given their costs and/ or side effects, these treatments are reserved for patients with moderate-to-severe AD, whereas those with milder AD are often managed using topical therapies. While the new developments have been revolutionary, there continues to be a need for highly efficacious treatments for patients with limited disease who have failed first-line therapies.