Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), particularly basic FGF (bFGF or FGF-2), have been studied for their role in wound healing and skin regeneration, including in the context of dermatitis. FGFs are a family of signaling proteins involved in angiogenesis, tissue repair, and cellular proliferation. In clinical and preclinical studies, topical bFGF has demonstrated efficacy in accelerating wound healing, promoting re-epithelialization, and reducing inflammation in various skin injuries, including atopic and contact dermatitis-induced lesions.

Several small randomized controlled trials and animal studies have shown that topical application of recombinant bFGF can improve healing rates and skin barrier function in models of dermatitis. For example, studies in humans with chronic eczema or radiation-induced dermatitis have reported faster resolution of lesions and improved patient-reported outcomes with bFGF-containing treatments compared to standard care or placebo. Mechanistically, FGFs enhance the migration and proliferation of keratinocytes and fibroblasts, key cells in skin repair, and may modulate local immune responses.

However, while these findings are promising, the overall quality and quantity of evidence remains moderate. Large-scale, high-quality randomized trials are limited, and there is variability in formulations and treatment protocols. FGFs have regulatory approval in some countries (notably Japan and China) for use in skin ulcers and wounds, including some forms of dermatitis, but are not widely adopted in Western dermatology practice for dermatitis specifically.