Eczema
Dry, itchy, inflamed skin that comes and goes in flares. Common in children and often improves with age. Not contagious.
Treatment options
Ratings show how strong the research is.
- Strong evidenceMoisturiser every dayThick, fragrance-free cream or ointment at least twice daily, even when skin looks clear. Reduces flares and the need for steroid creams.
- Strong evidenceSteroid cream for flaresThe main treatment. Safe and effective when used as directed. Apply to all red, itchy skin until settled, usually 1 to 2 weeks.
- Strong evidenceTwice-weekly "maintenance" steroidFor eczema that keeps returning in the same spots, using steroid cream 2 days a week on those areas prevents flares.
- Strong evidenceNon-steroid prescription creamsTacrolimus or pimecrolimus. Useful for the face and eyelids or long-term use.
- Strong evidenceSpecialist treatmentFor severe eczema, a dermatologist can offer light therapy or newer tablets and injections.
- Moderate evidenceWet wrapsDamp bandages over cream for severe flares, mainly in children. Ask your GP how.
- Limited evidenceAntihistaminesDon’t treat eczema itself. A drowsy one may help sleep during a bad flare.
- Not recommendedCutting out foodsRarely helps and can harm growth in children. Only with medical advice if a food allergy is confirmed.
What you can do
- Soap-free wash and short, lukewarm showers. Pat dry, then moisturise.
- Cotton clothing and short nails. Stay cool, as overheating and sweat worsen itch.
- Treat flares early rather than waiting.
See your GP if
- Skin is weeping, crusted or not improving after a week of treatment
- Itch is stopping sleep
See a doctor the same day for sudden painful clustered blisters or sores, especially near the eyes, or a child with fever who seems unwell.
Evidence and more information
maladywise.com/eczema/