Eczema (atopic dermatitis) Treatment
Eczema (or atopic dermatitis), is characterised by very dry, inflamed patches of skin. It is very common and can be severe for some children and adults.
The team at The Dermatology Clinic understand that as well as being painful and itchy, eczema can affect sleep and quality of life and have a significant psychological impact – but there’s lots we can do. Get in touch today to find out how we can help.
About eczema
Eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition predominantly found in children, although it can occur at any age. It is often an allergic reaction characterised by itching, redness, swelling and scratch marks, but persistent scratching of the eczema can cause the skin to thicken, darken and become scaly.
Types of eczema
Caused by an allergic reaction to something in contact with your skin, such as hair dye or perfume.
Occurs with age and is caused by cracked, dry skin
Linked to other allergic conditions like hay fever and asthma.
Eczema caused by certain medications.
Caused by a chemical such as disinfectants or soap irritating the skin.
Caused by repeated scratching and rubbing
Multiple small itchy areas of inflamed, thickened skin.
Occurs under the skin on the hands or feet in the form of tiny blisters.
This affects parts of the body covered by hair, particularly the scalp and face. This is known as cradle cap in babies.
If you or your child are suffering with any of the above conditions, our consultant dermatologists team appreciate exactly how much of a burden it is putting on your life. You may feel constantly distracted by itching, or self-conscious due to the appearance of your eczema. We understand this and our clinic offers a number of eczema treatment options to ease your symptoms and help regain your confidence.
Eczema treatment
Eczema treatment can be divided into three broad categories. The treatment recommended will be tailored for you depending on the type and severity of your condition and may incorporate elements of all three categories listed below.
1 Topical treatments
These treatments include creams to soothe irritated skin and reduce redness and swelling, such as:
- Emollients to calm the itching and soften your skin
- Soap substitutes to use whilst bathing
- Steroid creams to reduce inflammation
- Tacrolimus to control flare-ups
2 Phototherapy eczema
During phototherapy treatment, we will deliver precise doses of ultraviolet light using a special medical machine to directly reduce itching and inflammation.
3 Systematic medication
If your eczema is severe or life-limiting, we may prescribe systematic medications to reduce your symptoms. These are taken orally and include azathioprine, ciclosporin, methotrexate and prednisolone.
Eczema can be a distressing problem and you shouldn’t have to suffer when over the counter products don’t work. Our team of dermatologist can expertly assess the severity of your eczema and help you achieve effective results.
