Eczema on the Skin: What to Know

Eczema reflects a weakened skin barrier and inflammation. Flares may be encouraged by soaps, fragrance, heat, sweating, dry air, friction or stress, although triggers differ between people. Skin tone changes how redness appears; inflammation may look brown, purple, grey or darker than surrounding skin. Scratching can cause small wounds and can leave temporary colour changes after the flare improves. Similar features may occur with contact dermatitis, psoriasis or infection, so a diagnosis depends on the history and examination.

Keep showers short and lukewarm, use a fragrance-free cleanser only where needed, and pat rather than rub the skin dry. Apply a thick, unperfumed moisturiser while the skin is damp and reapply when it feels dry. Choose soft breathable clothing, remove irritating jewellery or products, and keep nails short to limit scratching damage. Introduce one new skin product at a time so a reaction is easier to identify. A clinician or pharmacist can guide treatment for an active flare.

Arrange an assessment if itching is persistent, the rash is widespread, sleep is affected, the skin repeatedly cracks, or self-care is not helping. Seek prompt care for rapidly spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, crusting with worsening pain, red streaks or fever. A clinician can check for infection and review whether the appearance fits eczema or another condition before treatment is selected.

Ask what may be triggering the flare, which moisturiser and treatment fit your skin, how to prevent scratching, and which changes should prompt a faster review.