Peat, particularly in the form of peat mud or peat balneotherapy, has traditional uses in Europe for various skin conditions, including dermatitis. In recent years, some scientific studies have explored its efficacy. Peat contains humic substances, fulvic acids, and various minerals that are thought to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, which could be beneficial for inflammatory skin diseases like atopic dermatitis.

Several small clinical trials and observational studies, mostly from Eastern Europe and Germany, have reported improvements in symptoms of atopic dermatitis following peat baths or topical peat preparations. These studies suggest reduced itching, erythema, and overall disease severity, possibly due to the anti-inflammatory and barrier-repair effects of peat components. However, most studies are limited by small sample sizes, lack of blinding, and potential publication bias. There is also some in vitro evidence for the anti-inflammatory activity of humic substances found in peat.

Major dermatological guidelines do not currently recommend peat therapy due to insufficient high-quality evidence. While the use of peat for dermatitis has a plausible physiological basis and some early clinical support, more rigorous randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.