Eczema Awareness Week Blog
Understanding, Managing, and Treating Eczema
At Oxona Health, we see first-hand how much eczema can impact daily life. From constant itching and discomfort to the effect on sleep and confidence, eczema is more than “just a skin condition”. For Eczema Awareness Week, our Specialist Dermatology Doctors want to raise awareness, share practical advice, and remind you that help is available. Keep an eye out on Facebook and Instagram for helpful videos from our specialist Dermatology Dr’s and Consultants.
🔹 What is Eczema?
Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It affects both adults and children and often runs in families alongside asthma and hayfever. Symptoms can vary, but typically include:
- Dry, itchy, and sensitive skin
- Red or inflamed patches
- Crusting or oozing in severe cases
- Thickened or scaly skin over time
Eczema can appear anywhere on the body but is commonly found on the hands, face, elbows and behind the knees.
🔹 Common Triggers
Eczema can wax and wain, with most patients experiencing periods of worsening (flare-ups) and periods of improvement (controlled eczema). Certain triggers can worsen flare-ups, such as:
- Cold and/ or dry weather
- Harsh soaps, detergents, or skincare products
- Stress or lack of sleep
- Allergens e.g. dust mites, pollen or pet hair
- Certain fabrics or foods
Identifying and avoiding triggers can make a big difference in controlling symptoms. However, in many cases a trigger is never identified, and the most important focus should be on controlling the flare-up.
🔹 Practical Self-Care Tips
If you live with eczema, there are steps you can take to help reduce flare-ups and manage your skin day-to-day:
✅ Moisturise regularly and liberally – apply fragrance-free emollients at least twice a day, more often if practically possible.
✅ Avoid irritants – switch to mild, soap-free cleansers. You can use an emollient in the shower or for hand washing instead of soap.
✅ Bathe with care – keep showers warm (not hot) and apply moisturiser after. Babies and children with eczema do not require daily baths(!) – only bathe if needed.
✅ Protect your skin – wear gloves when you come into contact with chemicals e.g. washing up, using household cleaners or when exposed to cold air.
🔹 When to Seek Professional Help
Eczema can be difficult to manage alone. If your skin is:
- Painful, cracked, or infected
- Affecting your daily life or sleep
- Not improving with over-the-counter creams
- Impacting your confidence
…it’s important to seek specialist advice.
At Oxona Health Dermatology, our team can:
- Accurately diagnose eczema and rule out other skin conditions
- Prescribe effective treatments such as topical steroids, non-steroidal creams or alternative options
- Provide tailored skincare and lifestyle advice
- Support long-term management to improve your quality of life
Eczema is a lifelong condition for many, but with the right care it can be controlled. Our dermatologists are here to provide expert and compassionate support to help you manage flare-ups and protect your skin for the future.
📞 To find out more or to book a consultation online or call 01865 965027 or 01727 620101.