eczema aftercare at home

Overview

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that makes your skin dry, itchy, and inflamed. It is not contagious, so you cannot catch it from someone else. The word 'atopic' means a tendency to develop allergies, and 'dermatitis' means inflammation of the skin.

Yes. Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions in the world. It affects millions of people of all ages, but it is especially common in children.

Anyone can get eczema, but it often first appears in babies and young children. Many children outgrow it or have milder symptoms as they get older. Some people continue to have eczema through adulthood, and it can also appear for the first time in adult life.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Dry, sensitive skin
• Intense itching, especially at night
• Red, brown, or gray patches of skin
• Rough, scaly, or leathery areas
• Small raised bumps that may leak fluid or crust over when scratched
• Sore or swollen skin from repeated scratching

Symptoms in children

• Rashes often appear on the face, scalp, elbows, and knees
• Children may scratch so much that they have trouble sleeping
• The skin may look particularly dry and patchy, and scratching can cause oozing or crusting
• Irritability or fussiness from the discomfort

Symptoms in older adults

• Skin tends to be very dry and may look leathery or thickened
• Rashes commonly affect the hands, neck, ankles, and around the eyes
• Itching can be severe and may interfere with work, sleep, and daily activities
• In older adults, eczema can look different, with more scaling and less red, weepy patches

Causes

Main causes

• A problem with the skin barrier, which makes it easier for moisture to escape and irritants to get in
• An overactive immune system that responds to triggers by causing inflammation
• Dry skin that becomes easily irritated
• Not fully understood, but a mix of genes and environment plays a role

Risk factors

• Having a family history of eczema, allergies, or asthma
• Having personal or family history of hay fever or food allergies
• Living in cold, dry climates or very hot, humid climates
• Using harsh soaps, detergents, or fragranced skin products
• Frequent stress or lack of sleep

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you see signs of a skin infection, such as yellow crusting, pus, spreading redness, or pain
• If the rash spreads quickly or becomes very painful
• If itching is uncontrollable and interferes with sleeping or daily life

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your current skincare routine is not keeping symptoms under control
• If eczema affects your sleep, work, school, or mood
• If you want a clear, personalized care plan for your skin
• If you are unsure how to manage a flare-up or prevent future ones

Diagnosis

A doctor usually diagnoses eczema by looking at your skin and asking about your symptoms. They may ask when the rash started, how often it appears, and whether you or your family have allergies or asthma.

Tests that may be done

• Usually no tests are needed for eczema
• Sometimes a patch test may be used to check for contact allergies
• A skin swab may betaken if an infection is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will examine your skin, ask about your itching and sleep, and review your daily skincare habits. They may talk with you about possible triggers and help you create a plan. The appointment is a chance to ask questions and get practical advice.

Treatment

Treatment for eczema focuses on keeping the skin moist, reducing inflammation, avoiding triggers, and preventing scratching. There is no one-size-fits-all cure, but most people can control their symptoms with a consistent routine and the right medical support.

Self-care at home

• Moisturize at least twice a day, including right after bathing
• Take warm (not hot) baths or showers for about 5 to 10 minutes
• Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers instead of harsh soaps
• Pat your skin dry with a soft towel, never rub
• Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of bathing to lock in moisture
• Wear soft, breathable cotton clothes and avoid wool directly on the skin
• Keep fingernails short and smooth to reduce damage from scratching
• Use a cool compress or wet wrap during a flare-up to calm itching

Medical treatments

Doctors may recommend treatments that you apply to your skin, such as moisturizers, barrier creams, or medicated ointments. For more difficult cases, other options may include light therapy or prescription medicines that calm the immune system. A doctor will choose a treatment based on your age, how severe the eczema is, and where it appears. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using any treatment, and follow the plan they give you.

Living with this condition

Living with eczema means making skincare part of your daily rhythm. Many people find that a steady, simple routine — morning and night — is the best way to reduce flare-ups and keep itching under control. It may take a few weeks to see improvements, so be patient with yourself.

Lifestyle tips

• Moisturize consistently, even when your skin looks and feels clear
• Avoid scratching by pressing a cool, damp cloth on itchy areas
• Use fragrance-free laundry detergents and avoid fabric softeners
• Manage stress with activities like walking, deep breathing, or talking to someone
• Try to get regular, restful sleep; a cool bedroom can help with night-time itching

Diet and exercise

There is no single diet that cures eczema. Some people notice that certain foods trigger a flare-up, but this varies for everyone. Eating a balanced, varied diet and getting gentle exercise are good for overall health. If you think a food may be triggering your eczema, talk to your doctor or a dietitian before removing it from your meals.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Eczema is not just physical — it can affect how you feel about yourself. Itching, visible rashes, and poor sleep can cause frustration, anxiety, or low mood. These feelings are normal and understandable. Remember that your mental health matters, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength. If you are feeling overwhelmed or in crisis, please talk to someone you trust or contact your local mental health support service right away.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent eczema from appearing, but you can often prevent flare-ups. This means keeping your skin well moisturized, avoiding your known triggers, and staying on top of your routine. The earlier you respond to the first signs of a flare-up, the easier it is to calm it.

Complications

If left untreated

• Repeated scratching can break the skin and allow bacteria to enter, causing infection
• Skin may become thick, cracked, or discolored over time
• Poor sleep from itching can affect energy, focus, and mood
• Scratching may leave scars or permanent changes in skin color

Long-term outlook

With good care, most people with eczema can manage their symptoms and enjoy a good quality of life. Many children outgrow eczema or have fewer and milder flare-ups as they get older. It may take time to find the routine that works best for you, but there are many safe and effective ways to keep your skin comfortable. You can live well with eczema.

Find support

International organisations

• National Eczema Association ↗
• National Eczema Society (UK) ↗

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