Reclaim your skin with eczema treatments

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a group of chronic skin conditions that causes dry, scaly and itchy skin. It is most common in children, but it also occurs in adults. It affects 4-7 in 100 people in Europe.

Healthy skin has a protective barrier against damage and infection and produces more natural fat and oils to seal moisture into the skin.

Eczema skin, on the other hand, produces less fat and oil, which means it cannot retain moisture as well. This creates gaps between the skin cells, which weakens the skin barrier.

This allows bacteria or irritants to pass through more easily, which breaks down the skin and causes eczema symptoms.

It is not known what exactly causes someone to develop eczema, but it can run in families and is more common in people with hay fever or asthma.

Eczema, or the medical term dermatitis, describes a group of dry skin conditions. There are several types of eczema with their own symptoms and causes. Below are some of the main types of eczema.

1. Atopic dermatitis - The most common form of eczema, which usually starts in childhood. It usually occurs in the back of the knees and inside of the elbows, but can occur anywhere across the body.
2. Contact dermatitis - A type of eczema that is caused by coming into contact with irritants (e.g. soap or cleaning products) or allergens (e.g. pollen or dust). It causes dryness, redness or skin burning, particularly on the hands.
3. Seborrhoeic dermatitis - A type of eczema that affects the scalp and hairline. It causes red and scaly skin on the scalp, but can extend to parts of the face.
4. Dyshydrotic eczema (pompholyx eczema) - A more uncommon type of eczema that causes intensely itchy, watery blisters. It mainly affects the hands and feet.
5. Discoid eczema (nummular eczema) - A distinctive type of eczema that causes oval-shaped rashes (known as discs) across the body.
6. Stasis eczema - A type of eczema caused by poor circulation, which mainly affects the legs.
7. Asteatotic eczema - A type of eczema caused by dry skin from low humidity or excessive bathing, typically affecting the shins and upper limbs.
8. Neurodermatitis - A type of eczema that causes intense itching and scratching, usually confined to one or two patches of skin.

Finding out what triggers your eczema symptoms is the first step to managing it. If you know the cause, you can prepare for it. Eczema can be sensitive to a wide range of triggers, such as:

• allergens (e.g. pollen, dust, pet fur or mould spores)
• irritants (e.g. harsh chemicals, detergents or soaps)
• certain fabrics (e.g. wool or synthetic materials)
• sudden temperature changes
• stress
• hormonal changes
• viral or bacterial infections
• food allergens (e.g. dairy, egg or gluten)

The symptoms of eczema will depend on the type you have. The most common symptoms include:

• itchy skin
• dry, cracked, crusty, scaly or thickened skin
• discoloured skin
• blisters or bleeding

Symptoms are most common on the elbows, knees and hands, but can occur across the body. Your symptoms will sometimes get worse or "flare up’, and other times they might feel better.

A doctor or dermatologist can diagnose eczema based on your symptom history. It’s a good idea to keep a symptom diary to help you and your doctor understand what causes it and how to manage it.

There are several treatment options available for eczema.

• Moisturisers - Over-the-counter moisturisers help to protect and nourish the skin. They are available as creams, lotions, gels or ointments.
• Emollients - They help to form a protective film over the skin, fill in the gaps in the skin barrier and prevent skin cracking. They can also be used as a gentle soap for bathing.
• Topical steroids - Treatments which target inflammation, relieving symptoms. Designed for short-term use for flare-ups. Available as lotions, ointments, gels and creams for eczema (e.g. Dermovate, Betnovate or Elocon).

Eczema is usually a chronic condition which will require lifelong management. Symptoms can be managed with daily moisturiser or emollient use, as well as other self-help measures.

Topical steroids should not be used long-term as they can thin the skin over time. If stopped suddenly after a long period of use, topical steroids can also cause topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). This is a skin reaction where symptoms return and become worse than before.

As well as treatment, there are several simple tips you can do to help manage your symptoms.

• wash with an emollient instead of soap
• rub the itch gently instead of scratching
• keep nails short to avoid damaging the skin
• avoid putting your fingers in emollient pots - use a spatula to apply instead
• keep cool - being hot can make your skin more itchy

No, eczema is not contagious. You cannot “catch” eczema from someone else. Most people usually develop it in childhood due to differences in their skin barrier.

Most people with eczema will have it throughout their lives. They may have periods where it gets better or worse (flare-ups). But it can be managed with treatment and lifestyle changes.

No, sunbeds do not help eczema. Sunbeds emit high-intensity UV rays that can damage the skin's DNA and increase the risk of skin cancer. The heat can also irritate the skin and cause a flare-up. A safe and medically recommended alternative is phototherapy, which uses controlled UV rays to help eczema.

If your eczema is getting worse or is impacting your everyday life, you should see your doctor or dermatologist. They can prescribe more specific or stronger treatment to help you better manage your symptoms.

You can order eczema treatment online from 121doc. 121doc offers an online service that allows you to complete a secure medical questionnaire and receive expert guidance and treatment options without the need for a face-to-face appointment.