Severe eczema flare in my 3-year-old: steroids vs nonsteroidal options

[Stephen_A]

My three-year-old has moderate atopic eczema, and we've been managing it with over-the-counter moisturizers and occasional hydrocortisone cream, but we're experiencing a bad flare-up that isn't responding. Our pediatrician mentioned stepping up to a prescription steroid, but I'm hesitant about long-term use. For other parents who have navigated this, what treatment paths have you found most effective for managing severe flares while minimizing side effects? Have you had success with non-steroidal options like topical calcineurin inhibitors, and what was your experience with identifying and eliminating potential triggers through allergy testing or elimination diets? I'm also looking for recommendations on specific clothing fabrics and laundry detergents that made a noticeable difference.