What is eczema?

Eczema is a common skin condition that affects both children and adults. Eczema is also known as:

• atopic eczema
• atopic dermatitis
• allergic eczema

If you have eczema, your skin doesn't keep moisture in very well. So, it becomes dry and easily irritated. This makes your skin more open to irritants and allergens (substances that cause allergies).

The allergens can trigger the release of chemicals in your skin, making it itchy. Scratching only makes your skin more itchy, and so the cycle repeats itself. This is known as the ‘scratch and itch cycle'.

Most people have their first symptoms when they are babies, and eczema usually gets better as you get older.

Your guide to eczema

What are the symptoms of eczema?

The most common type of eczema involves areas of red, dry, itchy skin. Eczema often affects the skin:

• in the creases of your elbows
• behind your knees
• on your wrists and ankles
• on your face and scalp (usually seen in babies)

There are some differences in the pattern of eczema and the areas of skin affected based on your skin colour. People of colour may get:

• eczema on the outsides of your knees or elbows
• scaly skin
• purple, grey or brown areas or irritated skin (not red)
• round areas of inflammation

Eczema symptoms tend to come and go. When you have symptoms, this is known as an ‘eczema flare'.

What causes eczema?

Nobody knows exactly what causes eczema, but it can run in families. It's thought to be caused by both genetic and environmental factors.

It's common for people with eczema and their family members to also have other allergic conditions, including:

• hay fever
• asthma
• dust mite and food allergies

What triggers eczema?

A trigger is anything that might make your eczema symptoms worse. Some common examples include:

• dry weather
• changes in the weather
• overheating
• stress
• skin infections

Other things that can trigger your eczema, if you have contact with them, are:

• skin irritants such as soap, shampoo or bubble bath
• sand, carpet or grass
• chlorine in pools or spas
• woollen or prickly fabrics
• sheepskin
• substances you are allergic to

Triggers vary from person to person, so not all these things will affect every person with eczema. Identifying your personal triggers will help you manage your eczema.

When should I see my doctor?

You should see your doctor if you or your child has itchy, dry skin.

How is eczema diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and what makes them worse. They will ask about your health in general and examine you.

Your doctor should be able to diagnose eczema based on your symptoms and the appearance of your skin.

Your doctor may refer you for allergy tests to help with the diagnosis and to find out what triggers your eczema.

They may also refer you to a dermatologist — skin specialist.

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How is eczema treated?

While there is no cure, eczema is treatable.

It's important to:

• use moisturisers regularly to protect your skin
• avoid your eczema triggers
• treat flare ups

Skin moisturisers

Protect your skin by applying a moisturiser or emollient at least 2 times each day. Use the moisturiser even when your eczema is under control.

Thick moisturisers or ointments are best. Avoid any chemical additives or perfumes in moisturisers that may trigger your eczema.

Treating flare-ups

Steroid creams or ointments can be used to treat eczema flare-ups. Your doctor will prescribe different creams or ointments depending on where your skin is affected.

Be careful to use the cream or ointment exactly as your doctor recommends. Side effects of steroid creams and ointments are rare if you use them as prescribed.

There are alternative skin treatments for people who can't use steroids. Ask your doctor about these.

For itchy skin, try cold compresses. If you have disturbed sleep from itching, your doctor may recommend antihistamine medicines.

Specialist treatments for severe eczema

If you have severe eczema, your doctor may recommend treatment with dressings. These may be wet dressings, which can help cool, protect and rehydrate your skin. Your doctor may suggest that you use these dressings at night.

There are also specialised medicines to help reduce inflammation. Talk to your doctor or specialist about treatments for severe eczema.

How can I prevent eczema flare-ups?

If you know what triggers your eczema, your doctor may be able to help you develop an eczema action plan. This is your personal guide for how to manage your eczema and prevent it from flaring up.

Some things your doctor may recommend:

• Moisturise daily — even when your skin is healthy.
• Avoid your triggers.
• Avoid overheating and make sure your baths and showers aren't too hot.
• Rinse off straight after swimming, especially if swimming in a chlorinated pool.

Complications of eczema

Sometimes your affected skin can get infected. If you have eczema, your skin is more prone to infection with both bacteria and viruses.

If your doctor thinks you have a skin infection, they may take a swab for testing.

Depending on the cause of the infection and how bad it is, treatment may include:

• antibiotics
• special bleach baths or soaks

Resources and support

The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy has information on eczema and allergic conditions.

Health Translations has eczema information in languages other than English.

Support for people with eczema is available at Eczema Support Australia.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.