Get clinically-approved eczema treatments from the comfort of your home

Eczema is a common skin condition that causes patches of dry, itchy, inflamed skin. It can affect people of all ages, although it's particularly common in children.

The most common form is atopic eczema, which is often linked to allergies and an overactive immune response. Symptoms can come and go, with calm periods where the skin feels manageable, followed by more irritable, uncomfortable flare-ups.

Many people find that their eczema improves or even disappears with age, although others continue to experience symptoms throughout adulthood.

Eczema can look different for everyone, but some common symptoms include:

• Dry, cracked skin
• Intense itchiness
• Red, inflamed patches
• Sore or sensitive skin
• Thickened skin caused by repeated scratching
• Flaky or scaly patches

If you're unsure whether your symptoms are eczema, our clinically-trained pharmacists can help assess your condition through the online consultation process.

There isn’t one root cause of eczema. Instead, it's usually the result of a combination of factors and can be brought on by various ‘triggers’, including:

• Genetics and family history – if one or both parents have atopic eczema, their children are more likely to develop it too1
• Allergies - allergies such as hay fever or asthma are similar genetic traits linked to the same immune system, and can sometimes trigger eczema flare-ups
• Skin barrier problems – a weakened skin barrier makes it easy for viruses to penetrate and cause infections, often shown through inflammation and itchiness
• Environmental triggers – stress, food allergies, cold, dry weather and being unwell can all be triggers for eczema flare-ups
• Skin irritants– using perfumed skincare or harsh soap products, and being around dust, heat (e.g. central heating) or pets can all trigger eczema

Understanding your triggers can help reduce flare-ups and improve long-term eczema management.

Emollients are moisturising treatments that soften and soothe to help hydrate the skin and support the natural protective barrier.

Using an emollient regularly can help:

• Reduce dryness
• Relieve itching
• Protect against irritants
• Reduce the frequency of flare-ups
• Improve overall skin comfort

Summer

Hot weather and sweating can irritate sensitive skin. Do what you can to stay cool, wear breathable clothing and moisturise regularly.

Winter

Cold weather and central heating can dry out the skin, so you might need to apply emollients more frequently during the colder months.

Spring and Autumn

Seasonal allergies such as pollen can sometimes contribute to flare-ups. Pay attention to potential triggers and adjust your skincare routine as needed.

You should ask for an urgent GP appointment or call 111 if the skin is:

• Blistered, crusty, leaking fluid or has pus-filled spots
• Painful, swollen or warm to the touch
• Suddenly getting worse or more widespread

You should also seek medical attention if you have a high temperature and are feeling unwell due to eczema, as this could be a sign of infection.