Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
A long-term condition that makes the skin dry, itchy, red and cracked. It's common in children and often linked to allergies.
Quick Summary
Dry, itchy, red or darker patches of skin, often in skin creases, which may weep or crust during flares.
Regular moisturisers, avoiding triggers, steroid creams for flares and other medicines for severe eczema.
Family history of eczema, asthma or hay fever, irritants such as soaps, sweat, heat and stress.
Overview
Eczema happens when the skin barrier doesn't work well, so the skin loses moisture and lets irritants in.
It often improves as children grow but can continue into adulthood. Good daily skin care reduces flares.
Symptoms
Itchy skin
Often intense, especially at night.
Dry, cracked skin
Rough patches.
Red or dark patches
In elbows, knees, neck and face.
Infected eczema
Weeping, crusting or painful skin needs medical care.
Causes & Risk Factors
Biological Causes
A weak skin barrier and an overactive immune response, influenced by genes.
Key Risk Factors
- Family history Of eczema, asthma or hay fever.
- Irritants Soaps, detergents and wool.
- Triggers Heat, sweat, dust mites and stress.
Management & Treatment
01. Moisturise
Emollients several times a day, especially after bathing.
02. Avoid triggers
Mild soap-free cleansers and cotton clothes.
03. Medicines
Steroid creams for flares; other treatments for severe eczema.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eczema contagious?
Are steroid creams safe?
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Eczema(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Atopic eczema(opens in a new tab) · NHS