# Eczema (atopic dermatitis)

> Dry, itchy, inflamed skin that flares and settles, in babies, children and adults.

Source: https://www.skinhealth.clinic/conditions/eczema/
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Ting Seng Tang, Consultant Dermatologist (GMC 7020502). Last reviewed 2026-10.

Atopic eczema is a common long-term condition in which the skin barrier is weaker than usual, so skin loses moisture and reacts more easily to irritants and allergens. It often starts in childhood and can continue into, or first appear in, adult life.

Flares can be triggered by soaps, heat, sweat, infections, stress and sometimes specific allergens. Good control usually comes from a clear daily plan rather than a single treatment.

## How We Can Help

- A tailored skin-care plan: emollients, washing routine and how to step treatments up and down during flares.
- Review of topical treatments, including how much to use and for how long, to get control safely.
- Assessment for infection, contact allergy or other conditions that can look like eczema.
- Discussion of options for more severe eczema, including phototherapy and systemic or newer targeted treatments where appropriate.

## When to get urgent help

If eczema suddenly becomes painful, weepy or blistered, or comes with fever or feeling unwell, seek same-day medical advice: this can be a sign of infection such as eczema herpeticum.

## Book

See https://www.skinhealth.clinic/services/ for online (£150), face-to-face (£250 new, £180 follow-up) and Mole Check / Rash Review (£75) appointments.

_General information only, not a substitute for individual medical advice. Provided by SkinHealth.Clinic (Dr Ting Seng Tang, GMC 7020502)._