---
title: "Eczema & dermatitis: symptoms, causes & treatment"
description: "Eczema causes itchy, inflamed skin that flares with triggers like stress, soaps and weather."
url: "https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/conditions/eczema/"
source: "Sanara Health"
licence: "Quote with attribution and a link to the url above."
---
# Eczema & dermatitis: symptoms, causes & treatment

Eczema causes itchy, inflamed skin that flares with triggers like stress, soaps and weather. Most mild-to-moderate eczema is managed with emollients and prescription topicals when pharmacy options fail.

Editorial information by **Kaiser Khan**. Not clinically reviewed.

## Symptoms

- Itchy, dry or cracked skin
- Red patches in skin creases or on hands
- Flares after stress, sweating or new products
- Sleep disruption from itching

## Why it happens

A combination of genetic skin barrier weakness and immune overreaction. Triggers include harsh soaps, fragrances, wool, dry air, stress and some foods in children.

## Treatment

Daily emollients plus prescription topical anti-inflammatories for flares. Severe or widespread eczema may need specialist dermatology.

## Self-care that helps

Fragrance-free emollient several times daily; short lukewarm showers; cotton clothing; identify and avoid personal triggers.

## When to get help

Weeping, crusted or infected skin, fever, or eczema not controlled after 4 weeks of treatment — seek review.

[See our eczema & dermatitis support →](https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/medicines/acne/)

Go deeper

## Related guides

[Eczema treatment online UK: emollients and prescription creams — How to treat eczema in the UK — daily emollients, prescription topicals, triggers to avoid, and when you need a dermatologist.](https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/guides/eczema-treatment-online-uk/)

[Eczema vs psoriasis UK: how to tell the difference — Eczema or psoriasis? UK guide to symptoms, appearance, triggers, treatment and when you need a GP or dermatologist.](https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/guides/eczema-vs-psoriasis-uk/)

Available without prescription

## Products that can help

[Everyday health — Vitamin D3: 1000 IU explained](https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/supplements/vitamin-d3-1000iu/)

[Everyday health — Omega-3 fish oil](https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/supplements/omega-3-fish-oil/)

[Everyday health — Daily multivitamins](https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/supplements/daily-multivitamin/)