ECZEMA TREATMENT FACTS
About eczema treatment
Eczema can’t be cured but we can offer a variety of topical steroids to manage your eczema flare-ups.They come as cream, ointment or lotion, as well as a scalp-specific solution.
For a long-term preventative measure, you should apply moisturiser every day. Combining prescription treatment together for short periods with moisturiser is the best way for you to manage your symptoms.
How do eczema treatments work?
Topical steroids are a type of medicine that calms down the immune response that causes eczema. They reduce the redness, itchiness and swelling of the skin.
How do I apply eczema treatments?
If treatment is suitable for you, you would apply the prescribed amount of cream or lotion over the affected area. For most treatments you’ll need to do this once a day.
Don’t wrap or tightly cover treated areas.
You should see an improvement within two weeks but it may take longer to clear completely. You should not use steroid creams for more than four weeks without professional advice.
What are the side effects of eczema treatments?
Using too much can cause your skin to become thin and fragile, so only apply it in a thin layer as directed.
For the full information of a medicine’s side effects and how to take it, it’s important to read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with your medicine.
How quickly do these eczema treatments work?
It can take time for the appearance of your skin to improve but you should notice it clearing up after 14 days. Don’t use these steroid creams for more than four weeks without professional advice.
If you don’t notice an improvement after two weeks please message us.
You may need repeat treatment if you experience a flare-up again in future.
Important Safety Information
Only certain treatments can be applied to delicate areas like your face, under your arms, or your groin. If you’re prescribed a treatment, we’ll make it clear where you can use it. If appropriate, we may suggest an alternative treatment that’s more suited to delicate regions.
If you apply too much treatment or use it for too long, your body can start to rely on these steroids instead of its own. Do not use treatment for more than four weeks.
It’s important that you tell us which other medicines you’re taking or using — whether they’re prescription or medicines you’ve bought without a prescription. We need to know so that we prescribe a suitable eczema treatment. You must also tell us if you start taking steroids in any other form (such as steroid inhalers or tablets).
What are my options if I don’t want treatment?
Tackling an eczema flare-up early on can help prevent it progressing to other parts of the body.
Applying large amounts of moisturisers regularly is an essential part of managing eczema, regardless of any other treatments.
Whilst eczema may resolve on its own, you should do your best to avoid scratching or itching as it damages the skin even more. Antihistamines can help with itching symptoms.
Page last reviewed by: Dr. Christina Hennessey 21/06/2021