Worried about atopic eczema?

What is atopic eczema?

Atopic eczema is a common condition causing dry, itchy, cracked, and sore skin. It often starts in childhood and can improve or come and go throughout life. Eczema commonly affects the hands, insides of elbows, backs of knees, and the face and scalp. Daily moisturising (emollients) and avoiding triggers are the foundation of management.

When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP

• Eczema is severe, widespread, or affecting daily life.
• Over-the-counter treatments aren't controlling symptoms.
• The skin looks infected — red, hot, swollen, oozing, or painful.
• Eczema is disrupting sleep regularly.
• You're unsure whether the rash is eczema or something else.
• A child's eczema is getting worse or they're scratching constantly.

Self-care information from NHS

• Moisturise at least twice a day with an unperfumed emollient — this is the most important treatment.
• Use emollient as a soap substitute when washing — regular soap dries the skin.
• Avoid known triggers — common ones include soaps, detergents, stress, heat, and certain fabrics.
• Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton next to the skin.
• Keep nails short and consider cotton gloves at night to reduce scratching damage.
• Apply prescribed steroid creams to flare-ups as directed — don't avoid them out of fear of side effects.
• Pat skin dry after washing rather than rubbing.

Common questions

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