Sleep improvements following atopic dermatitis management in young children.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this pilot study was to assess improvements in associated sleep and caregiver mood following treatment of atopic dermatitis in young children.

METHODS: Participants included children (n = 23; Mage = 22.0 months) and their caregivers. Topical management of atopic dermatitis was conducted for 2 weeks, with measures of skin, sleep (child, caregiver), and mood (caregiver) at baseline and day 14.

RESULTS: Topical management resulted in significant improvements in child skin, with associated increases in sleep consolidation. There were similar improvements in caregiver nightwakings, with nighttime sleep duration improving by over an hour. Caregivers also reported more energy to engage with their family and feeling better rested.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, topical management significantly improved atopic dermatitis. There were concomitant improvements in sleep outcomes for children and their caregivers, as well as caregiver mood. Daily management of atopic dermatitis may result in improvements in not just skin health but also sleep and family well-being.