Direct Observed “Soak and Smear” Therapy for Severe Eczematous Dermatitis in the Combat Setting

Soak and smear: An effective treatment for eczematous dermatoses

“…1 For over 60 years topical corticosteroids have played an important role in treating eczematous dermatoses. 4 We report successful results after implementing this technique in treating patients with a range of eczematous conditions including atopic eczema, discoid eczema and widespread unclassified eczema. 2 Another modification of topical steroid therapy is soak and smear.…”

“…3 In 2009 seven patients were treated in a combat environment twice daily for 3 days using this modality, with rapid improvement. 4 We report successful results after implementing this technique in treating patients with a range of eczematous conditions including atopic eczema, discoid eczema and widespread unclassified eczema.…”

Prehydration is Effective for Rapid Control of Recalcitrant Atopic Dermatitis

“…7 Patients are instructed to apply the ointment within three minutes of getting out of the bath tub after a brief “pat dry.” While two studies have shown this “soak and smear” method may have utility in a variety of dermatoses, this technique has not been systematically evaluated in a population of patients with AD. 7–11 The objective of the current study was to determine the effectiveness of the pre-hydration technique combined with topical steroid therapy in achieving disease control in patients with moderate-to-severe AD.…”