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A person wiping ointment into a patch of eczema on the back of their hand
Eczema (dermatitis)

Our expert Consultant Dermatologists are here to help you find the most effective and personalised treatment to manage the symptoms of eczema (dermatitis).

Private eczema treatment 

Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a long-term (chronic) condition that causes the skin to become itchy, red, dry and cracked. It usually affects younger children, but most will be clear of it by the age of seven, although it may sometimes continue into adulthood. 

Eczema usually appears on the areas where we have folds of skin, including behind the knees and inside the elbows, around the neck, and around the ears and eyes. It can also sometimes appear on hands and feet.

 Dr Veronique Bataille, Consultant Dermatologist, discusses childhood eczema, the causes and how to treat it. 

Eczema: FAQs

While there’s no simple cure for eczema, thankfully, there are treatments and lifestyle changes that can help you to effectively manage the symptoms. These include: 

  • Choosing fragrance-free skincare products to reduce the risk of irritation
  • Avoiding known triggers such as soap, washing detergents, certain fabrics, or pets
  • Moisturising regularly using a suitable emollient, and applying it at least twice a day and continuing even when symptoms improve
  • Using an emollient instead of soap when washing to prevent the skin from drying out
  • Keeping cool, as heat can increase itching and discomfort
  • Limited sun exposure may help some people, but always protect the skin to avoid sun damage or burning
  • Keeping nails short to minimise damage caused by scratching
  • Using anti-scratch mittens on babies to help protect their skin

While Eczema is a common, chronic skin condition that often starts in childhood, it can appear at any age, including later in life. However, eczema usually goes away in childhood, with 65% of children being clear of it by the time they're 16.

Luckily, our dermatologists are experts in delivering private eczema treatment, and can help you to find the best ways to manage the symptoms that are most affecting your life, or your child’s life. 

If the eczema is caused by an allergy then it's important to find the cause and eliminate or reduce it. In some cases, antihistamines may help with the allergy. Using a humidifier and synthetic pillows and duvets can also help to keep your environment free from dust and mould.

For more severe cases of eczema we offer several private eczema treatment choices depending on the cause and severity. In some cases, our dermatologists may prescribe a steroid cream. These can have side effects, which may include thinning of the skin, so our dermatologist will discuss this treatment with you in detail to minimise any effects.

Antibiotics are rarely needed, but steroid ointments mixed with antibiotics may help. Your dermatologist may also suggest using an antibacterial oil or cream in the bath. If eczema becomes very severe, you may be recommended a course of UVB light treatment in hospital. Sometimes, an immunosuppressant may also be prescribed.

Whatever the cause of the eczema, it's important to speak to one of our private dermatologists. Without the right treatment, eczema may cause long-term damage to the skin, particularly in children with dark skin. 

Our dermatologists will thoroughly examine the areas of skin affected by eczema, discuss symptoms and family history with you, together with assessing any allergies, to offer you (or your child) the best treatment.

Treatment for a range of skin conditions

Acne

Acne

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Baby Eczema

Baby Eczema

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Visit our Dermatology Clinic in London

We’re here to offer our care and expertise, with appointments often available at short notice. To find out more about our specialist private eczema treatment, please telephone 020 7244 4200 or make an appointment online.

Meet the team

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