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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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