The first method that should be taken when treating xerotic eczema is attempting to re-hydrate the dry skin using a humidifier and bathing/showering less frequently.
Mild and moisturizing soaps should be used to prevent further irritation.
Applying moisturizing lotion or anti-itch ointment frequently should help in reducing dryness.
If the re-hydration process does not alleviate the symptoms, moisturizers such as Lac-Hydrin 5% or 12% moisturizer containing urea can be used; furthermore, if the skin becomes inflamed or cracked, mid- to high-potency corticosteroids can be used.
[3] A study published in 2005 found positive results from soaking the affected area in water for twenty minutes and then applying mid- to high-strength corticosteroid ointment.