The Janus kinase (JAK) family and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins play a central role in intracellular signaling pathways and mediate the effects of more than 50 cytokines and growth factors. JAK inhibitors act by selectively targeting receptor-associated kinases, thereby suppressing the transduction of pro-inflammatory signals. With increasing evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of targeted agents, both systemic and topical JAK inhibitors have been investigated for the management of atopic dermatitis and have demonstrated diverse mechanisms of action, variable efficacy, and distinct safety profiles. This review evaluates the clinical utility and safety of JAK inhibitors in the treatment of inflammatory and atopic dermatoses. While these agents have shown promising therapeutic outcomes in many patients, there remains considerable variability in response rates and a risk of severe and sometimes life-threatening adverse effects. Ongoing research is essential to further elucidate the complex signaling mechanisms involved, optimize therapeutic efficacy, and reduce the incidence of adverse effects.
