Eczema

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, however genetic and environmental influences are significantly important. People with eczema often have relatives with eczema or sensitive skin and asthma or hayfever. Patients with eczema have a problem with their skin barrier function, resulting in water loss from the skin, leaving it dry, scaly and vulnerable to allergens, infections and irritants.

What does Eczema look like?

Eczema may appear as dry, itchy or inflamed patches. Skin can become cracked, thickened, blistered or weepy, and its appearance varies by eczema type and skin tone.

How do I manage my Eczema?

Eczema is usually a long-term problem. While it cannot be cured, the condition can certainly be controlled. The suggested approach for management of eczema includes:

• Avoid long, hot showers (use luke-warm water) or prolonged baths
• Use a soap-free wash or cleansing oil instead of soap
• Apply a moisturiser on affected areas after bathing or showering
• Avoid clothing with rough fabrics such as wool and some synthetics and instead wear soft, breathable fabrics
• Avoid potential skin irritating detergents when washing your clothes or cleaning
• Topical steroids are an effective relief option and can help reduce inflammation
• Other prescription anti-inflammatory creams can sometimes be used instead of topical steroids, such as Elidel
• If your eczema is infected, it may well require a course of systemic antibiotics
• For severe eczema, additional approaches that may be used to control the problem include narrow-band UVB, excimer laser and various systemic medications.