New Eczema Treatments 2024-2025: A Revolution in Atopic Dermatitis Care

Eczema treatment has been completely transformed in 2024 and 2025, with the FDA approving six groundbreaking new medications in just 18 months. From the first-ever treatment specifically targeting the unbearable itch of eczema to revolutionary non-steroidal creams and the first dedicated therapy for chronic hand eczema, these developments represent the most significant advances in eczema care in decades.

If you've struggled with eczema using only steroid creams, experienced frustrating flare-ups despite treatment, or felt limited by the side effects of traditional therapies, these new options could genuinely change your life.

The Problem with Traditional Eczema Treatment

For years, eczema treatment has followed a predictable pattern: moisturise constantly, use topical steroids during flare-ups, try to avoid triggers, and hope for the best. For moderate to severe eczema, this approach often falls short.

Topical corticosteroids, whilst effective for controlling flares, come with significant concerns. Long-term use can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and reduced effectiveness over time. Many people worry about using steroids on sensitive areas like the face or in children, leading to under-treatment and persistent symptoms.

Older systemic treatments like ciclosporin or methotrexate require careful monitoring for serious side effects affecting the liver, kidneys, and immune system. These medications were never designed specifically for eczema – they're immunosuppressants repurposed from other conditions.

The result? Millions of people with moderate to severe eczema have been living with poorly controlled symptoms, accepting constant itching, sleep disruption, and skin pain as simply "part of having eczema."

Nemluvio: The First Treatment Specifically Targeting Itch

The most exciting 2024 approval may be Nemluvio (nemolizumab), approved by the FDA in December 2024. This is the first and only biologic that specifically targets IL-31, the key cytokine responsible for the unbearable itching in eczema.

For people with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, the itch is often worse than the visible rash. It disrupts sleep, impacts concentration, and creates a vicious cycle where scratching damages skin and worsens inflammation. Traditional treatments address inflammation but often leave patients still desperately itchy.

Nemluvio works differently by blocking IL-31, which directly drives the itch signal in eczema. Clinical trials showed dramatic improvements in itch scores, often within days of starting treatment. Many patients reported their first decent night's sleep in years.

The medication is approved for people aged 12 and older with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, used in combination with topical corticosteroids and/or calcineurin inhibitors when disease isn't adequately controlled with topical therapies alone. It's administered by injection every four weeks after an initial loading dose.

For anyone whose eczema is dominated by relentless itching that seems resistant to everything else, Nemluvio represents a genuinely novel approach targeting a previously unaddressed pathway.

Ebglyss: Monthly Maintenance Dosing Changes Everything

Ebglyss (lebrikizumab), approved in September 2024, is an IL-13 inhibitor biologic with a game-changing dosing schedule. After an initial series of injections every two weeks, patients can maintain control with just one injection per month.

This monthly maintenance dosing is less frequent than any other biologic for eczema, making it the most convenient option for long-term management. For people managing chronic disease, reducing treatment burden whilst maintaining effectiveness is invaluable.

Ebglyss is approved for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in people aged 12 and older when symptoms persist despite topical treatments. Clinical trials showed significant improvements in skin clearance, itch reduction, and quality of life.

The medication targets IL-13, a key driver of inflammation in eczema. By blocking this specific pathway, Ebglyss reduces the immune overreaction that causes eczema symptoms without broadly suppressing the entire immune system.

Like other biologics, Ebglyss is self-administered using a prefilled pen, allowing treatment at home without clinic visits. The monthly schedule means less frequent injections compared to alternatives requiring twice-monthly dosing.

JAK Inhibitors: Oral and Topical Options

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have emerged as powerful eczema treatments available in both oral and topical formulations. These medications work by blocking specific enzymes involved in the inflammatory cascade that drives eczema.

Opzelura (ruxolitinib) cream received expanded FDA approval in September 2025 for children as young as 2 years old with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. This is revolutionary because it provides a non-steroidal topical option for very young children, addressing a significant unmet need.

The approval was based on the TRuE-AD3 trial showing 75% improvement in eczema severity compared to placebo in children aged 2-12 years. Crucially, no serious infections, cardiovascular events, or other major safety concerns were reported. For parents worried about using steroids on their young children's delicate skin, Opzelura offers an effective alternative.

Oral JAK inhibitors including Rinvoq (upadacitinib), Cibinqo (abrocitinib), and baricitinib are approved for moderate to severe eczema in adolescents and adults. These daily tablets can achieve dramatic skin clearance in people who haven't responded to topical treatments or biologics.

The major advantage of oral treatment is convenience – a daily tablet rather than injections or extensive topical routines. Clinical trials show many patients achieving clear or almost clear skin within weeks of starting treatment.

However, JAK inhibitors require monitoring due to potential side effects including increased infection risk and, with some formulations, cardiovascular and malignancy concerns. Your doctor will assess whether the benefits outweigh risks for your specific situation.

Zoryve and Vtama: Revolutionary Non-Steroidal Topicals

Two new non-steroidal topical treatments approved in 2024 offer alternatives to steroid creams with completely novel mechanisms of action.

Zoryve (roflumilast) cream 0.15%, approved in July 2024, is a PDE4 inhibitor for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in people aged 6 and older. PDE4 is an enzyme involved in inflammation, and blocking it reduces eczema symptoms without the side effects associated with steroids.

Clinical trials showed Zoryve effectively cleared eczema lesions whilst being well-tolerated. The most common side effects were mild application site reactions. Importantly, because it's not a steroid, there's no concern about skin thinning or other steroid-related effects even with long-term use.

Vtama (tapinarof) cream 1%, approved in December 2024, works through an entirely different mechanism as an aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist. It's approved for atopic dermatitis in people aged 2 and older, making it suitable for young children.

Tapinarof was originally developed for psoriasis and is now available for eczema based on positive clinical trial data. It offers once-daily application and represents another steroid-free option for long-term management.

For people concerned about long-term steroid use, particularly on the face, these new topicals provide genuinely effective alternatives developed specifically for inflammatory skin conditions.

ANZUPGO: The First Treatment for Chronic Hand Eczema

In July 2025, the FDA approved ANZUPGO (delgocitinib cream), the first and only treatment specifically approved for moderate to severe chronic hand eczema (CHE) in adults.

Chronic hand eczema affects approximately one in ten adults worldwide and can be particularly debilitating because hands are constantly used and exposed to irritants. Traditional eczema treatments often fail to adequately control hand eczema, leaving people struggling with painful cracks, blisters, and thickened skin.

ANZUPGO is a topical JAK inhibitor that blocks the inflammatory signals driving hand eczema. It's approved for adults whose disease isn't adequately controlled with topical corticosteroids or when those therapies aren't advisable.

Clinical trials showed significant improvements in hand eczema severity and symptoms. The availability of a treatment specifically developed and approved for hand eczema validates the unique challenges of this condition and provides hope for people who've struggled to find effective treatment.

For healthcare workers, hairdressers, cleaners, and others whose occupations expose their hands to irritants and water, effective hand eczema treatment can be career-saving.

Dupixent: Still the Gold Standard

Whilst celebrating new treatments, it's important to acknowledge Dupixent (dupilumab), the first biologic approved for eczema in 2017. It remains an extraordinarily effective treatment and is now approved for children as young as 6 months old.

Dupixent blocks both IL-4 and IL-13 pathways, addressing multiple aspects of eczema inflammation. With years of real-world use and extensive safety data, it's often considered the first-line biologic for moderate to severe eczema.

The medication has transformed countless lives, with many patients achieving complete or near-complete skin clearance. It's administered by injection every two weeks (or weekly in very young children) and can be used in combination with topical treatments.

The extensive evidence base and proven track record make Dupixent a benchmark against which newer treatments are measured. For many patients, it remains the optimal choice, whilst others may find newer alternatives better suited to their specific needs.

Comparing Your Options: Which Treatment Is Right for You?

With so many options now available, choosing the right treatment requires consideration of multiple factors including eczema severity, age, previous treatment responses, lifestyle factors, and personal preferences.

For mild to moderate eczema, newer topicals like Zoryve, Vtama, or Opzelura offer steroid-free alternatives that can be used long-term without concerns about skin thinning. These are particularly valuable for facial eczema or in children.

For moderate to severe eczema, biologics (Dupixent, Adbry, Ebglyss, Nemluvio) or oral JAK inhibitors (Rinvoq, Cibinqo) provide systemic treatment targeting the underlying immune dysfunction. The choice between these depends on dosing preference (injections vs daily tablets), specific symptom profile (particularly if itch is dominant), and individual response.

For chronic hand eczema specifically, ANZUPGO now provides a targeted option developed for this challenging condition.

For very young children, Opzelura's approval down to age 2 provides a steroid-free option for parents concerned about steroid use on delicate skin.

Accessing New Eczema Treatments in the UK

Availability of newer eczema treatments varies in the UK. Dupixent is available on the NHS for eligible patients with severe eczema. Some newer treatments may be available through specialist dermatology clinics on the NHS, but access depends on local integrated care board decisions.

Private dermatology offers access to the full range of new treatments without NHS waiting lists or formulary restrictions. For people whose eczema significantly impacts their quality of life, sleep, or ability to work, private treatment can be a worthwhile investment.

Costs vary considerably. Biologic treatments typically cost £1,000-£2,000+ monthly when paid privately, though some manufacturers offer patient assistance programmes. Newer topicals may cost £200-£400+ monthly depending on the amount needed.

Online GP services can assess eczema severity, prescribe standard topical treatments, and provide referrals to specialist dermatology when systemic treatments are needed. They can fast-track access to private dermatologists, avoiding long NHS waiting times.

The Role of Your GP vs Specialist Care

Your NHS GP can diagnose eczema, prescribe topical steroids and moisturisers, and provide general management advice. For mild eczema, GP care may be sufficient.

For moderate to severe eczema, particularly if you're considering biologics or JAK inhibitors, you'll need dermatology specialist input. Dermatologists can comprehensively assess your eczema, determine which systemic treatment is most appropriate, monitor for side effects, and adjust treatment as needed.

In the NHS, dermatology waiting lists can be 3-6 months or longer. Private dermatology offers appointments within days to weeks. Some people use a hybrid approach: initial private dermatologist consultation to start treatment quickly, then transition to NHS care for ongoing monitoring if possible.

What to Expect from Modern Eczema Treatment

With current treatment options, most people with moderate to severe eczema should expect significant improvement. Clear or almost clear skin is an achievable goal for many patients using biologics or JAK inhibitors.

Treatment timelines vary. Topical treatments may show improvement within 2-4 weeks. Biologics typically require 2-3 months to show full effect, though some improvement may occur earlier. JAK inhibitors often work faster, with noticeable improvement within 2-4 weeks.

Modern eczema treatment should address all aspects of the disease: clearing visible rashes, controlling itch, preventing flares, and improving quality of life. If you're still struggling with constant itching, poor sleep, or frequent flares despite treatment, better options are now available.

The Future: What's Coming Next

Research continues on additional eczema treatments. Tralokinumab (Adbry), another IL-13 inhibitor, is already approved and offers an alternative to Dupixent. Additional biologics targeting different pathways are in development.

Novel approaches including treatments that modify the skin microbiome, restore skin barrier function, and target newly identified inflammatory pathways are being researched. Combination therapies using multiple medications with different mechanisms may become standard for difficult-to-treat eczema.

The pace of progress is extraordinary. For people who've lived with eczema for decades using only moisturisers and steroid creams, the current moment represents unprecedented hope.

Living Well with Eczema in 2024-2025

Modern eczema management goes beyond medication. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers, using appropriate moisturisers and bathing practices, managing stress, and addressing sleep disruption all contribute to better control.

However, the foundation is effective medical treatment. You shouldn't have to accept constant itching, disrupted sleep, and visible skin problems as simply "life with eczema." With treatments now available, these symptoms can be dramatically improved or eliminated for most people.

Taking Control of Your Eczema

If your current eczema treatment isn't working well, if you're worried about long-term steroid use, or if you've never tried anything beyond basic topical treatments despite moderate to severe symptoms, now is the time to explore newer options.

Ask your GP about newer topical treatments for steroid-free alternatives. Request dermatology referral if you have moderate to severe eczema. If NHS waiting times are prohibitive, consider private dermatology consultation. Don't accept inadequate control when effective treatments exist.

The goal of eczema treatment in 2024-2025 should be clear, comfortable skin with minimal itch, good sleep, and the ability to live normally without constant awareness of your skin. With the treatments now available, this is achievable for the vast majority of people with eczema.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Dupixent, Ebglyss, and Nemluvio?

These are all biologics for moderate to severe eczema but target different pathways. Dupixent blocks IL-4 and IL-13 (broad anti-inflammatory effect), Ebglyss blocks IL-13 only (anti-inflammatory with convenient monthly dosing), and Nemluvio blocks IL-31 (specifically targets itch). Dupixent has the most extensive safety data. Nemluvio is best for itch-dominant eczema. Ebglyss offers the most convenient dosing schedule. Your dermatologist can advise which is most appropriate for your specific situation.

Are JAK inhibitors safe for long-term eczema treatment?

JAK inhibitors are effective but require monitoring due to potential risks including infections and, with some oral JAK inhibitors, cardiovascular events and malignancies. Topical JAK inhibitors like Opzelura have a better safety profile than oral versions as they're applied to skin rather than taken systemically. Your doctor will assess your individual risk factors and monitor you appropriately. For many people, the benefits outweigh the risks, but this must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Can I use new eczema treatments on my face?

Non-steroidal topicals like Zoryve, Vtama, and Opzelura can be safely used on the face without concerns about skin thinning that limit steroid use. Biologics and oral JAK inhibitors work systemically, treating eczema wherever it occurs including facial areas. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions about where to apply topical treatments.

How much do new eczema treatments cost privately in the UK?

Biologic treatments typically cost £1,000-£2,000+ monthly when paid privately. Newer topical treatments may cost £200-£400+ monthly depending on how much you need. Some manufacturers offer patient assistance programmes or payment plans. For many people, the quality of life improvement justifies the cost, particularly if eczema is impacting work, sleep, or mental health. NHS access is available for some treatments if you meet eligibility criteria.

Can children use the new eczema treatments?

Yes, many new treatments are approved for children. Opzelura (ruxolitinib cream) is approved from age 2, Vtama from age 2, Zoryve from age 6, and several biologics including Dupixent, Ebglyss, and Nemluvio are approved from age 12. Dupixent is even approved for babies as young as 6 months with severe eczema. Your paediatrician or paediatric dermatologist can advise on the most appropriate options for your child.

Will I still need to use moisturisers with new treatments?

Yes, moisturising remains fundamental to eczema management regardless of which medications you're using. Regular emollient use helps restore and maintain skin barrier function, reducing water loss and irritant penetration. Most eczema specialists recommend moisturising at least twice daily even when using biologics or other systemic treatments. Think of moisturisers as complementary to, not replaced by, newer treatments.

How quickly do new eczema treatments work?

Timelines vary. Nemluvio often reduces itch within days. Topical treatments like Opzelura, Zoryve, and Vtama may show improvement within 2-4 weeks. Biologics typically take 2-3 months for full effect, though some improvement may occur earlier. Oral JAK inhibitors often work relatively quickly, with noticeable improvement in 2-4 weeks. If you're not seeing any improvement within the expected timeframe, discuss with your doctor whether a different treatment might be more effective.

Can I switch from Dupixent to a newer biologic?

Yes, if Dupixent isn't providing adequate control or causes side effects, switching to another biologic like Ebglyss or Nemluvio may be appropriate. Your dermatologist will assess whether switching is advisable and manage the transition. Some people respond better to different biologics, and having multiple options means treatment can be optimised for individual needs.

Do I need a dermatologist or can my GP prescribe new eczema treatments?

GPs can prescribe newer topical treatments like Opzelura, Zoryve, and Vtama, though availability on NHS prescription varies. Biologics and oral JAK inhibitors typically require specialist dermatology prescribing due to the need for comprehensive assessment, initiation protocols, and ongoing monitoring. Your GP can provide a dermatology referral. Private dermatologists offer faster access to specialist assessment and newer treatments.

What if I've tried everything and nothing works?

If you've tried multiple treatments without success, specialist dermatology assessment is essential. Newer biologics targeting different pathways, combination therapy approaches, or identifying previously unrecognised triggers may help. Some people require combination treatment using multiple medications with different mechanisms. Additionally, ensuring the diagnosis is definitely eczema rather than another condition that mimics it is important. Don't give up – with the range of treatments now available, solutions can be found for most people.

Struggling with eczema and want to explore the latest treatment options? The Online GP can assess your eczema, prescribe appropriate topical treatments, and arrange specialist dermatology referrals to access biologics and systemic therapies.

Message us on WhatsApp to discuss your eczema – we typically respond within 15 minutes and offer same-day appointments. Get the clear, comfortable skin you deserve with modern, evidence-based treatment.