Effective Eczema Treatment

Different Types of Eczema 

While our primary focus at Clinica London is providing bespoke eczema treatment plans, tailored to each individual’s needs, it’s beneficial to acknowledge the variety of eczema types that exist. Understanding the different forms of eczema can help in recognising symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment. Though atopic dermatitis is the most common form we treat, several other types of eczema can affect individuals, each with its own triggers and symptoms. 

Atopic Dermatitis 

Atopic dermatitis is the most frequently encountered type of eczema, often beginning in childhood. Characterised by dry, itchy skin that can become inflamed and infected, it’s a condition that requires a careful, managed approach to treatment. At Clinica London, our eczema specialists have extensive experience in treating atopic dermatitis, offering relief and management strategies to those affected.

Specific Treatment 

At Clinica London, our approach to eczema treatment is personalised, considering the unique needs and conditions of each patient, whether they are children or adults. Our treatment procedures are meticulously designed to manage symptoms effectively and improve skin health over the long term. 

Eczema can affect various parts of the body, including the face, hands, feet, inside the elbows, and behind the knees. Treatment areas are identified based on where eczema flare-ups are most severe and how the condition impacts the patient’s daily life. 

The treatment procedure begins with a detailed consultation to understand the patient’s medical history, the severity of their condition, and any previous treatments. From there, our eczema specialists tailor a treatment plan that may include a combination of emollients, topical treatments, and, if necessary, oral medication. 

As a starting point for their treatment, we recommend that every patient takes on a detailed skincare regime. Emollients play a crucial role in this initial phase, providing moisture to the skin and forming a protective barrier to prevent dryness and irritation. 

How Many Sessions Are Needed? 

The number of sessions or duration of treatment varies depending on the individual’s condition, the type of eczema, and how they respond to the initial treatments. Some patients may see improvements within a few weeks, while others may require ongoing management to control their eczema effectively. 

Eczema Self-Care 

Managing eczema effectively often requires a combination of professional medical treatments and diligent self-care practices. At Clinica London, we understand the importance of empowering our patients with knowledge and tools for self-care to complement the treatments our eczema specialists provide. Dr Jennifer Crawley, our esteemed dermatologist, offers valuable advice for coping with atopic dermatitis, emphasising the role of self-care in managing this condition. 

Tips for Eczema Self-Care

• Moisturise Regularly: Keeping your skin moisturised is crucial in managing eczema. Use emollients and moisturisers daily to prevent dryness and relieve itchiness. Apply within minutes after bathing to lock in moisture.  

• Gentle Skincare Products: Opt for gentle, fragrance-free soaps and skincare products to avoid irritating sensitive skin. Harsh chemicals and fragrances can trigger eczema flare-ups.  

• Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid known triggers that can worsen your eczema. This may include certain fabrics, detergents, soaps, and allergens like dust mites and pet dander.  

• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to minimise skin irritation. Avoid wearing tight-fitting or rough-textured clothing.  

• Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate eczema symptoms. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine.  

• Keep Nails Short: Short nails reduce the risk of breaking the skin when scratching. Consider wearing gloves at night to prevent scratching in your sleep.  

• Use Anti-itch Creams: Over-the-counter anti-itch creams can provide temporary relief from itching. For more severe cases, consult your doctor for a prescription-strength option.  

• Stay Cool: Overheating can trigger eczema flare-ups. Keep your living environment cool and avoid sudden temperature changes.  

While not a standard part of self-care for eczema, anaesthetics or numbing creams may be used in specific situations, such as before medical procedures that might cause discomfort on sensitive eczema-affected skin, however, for routine eczema management, focusing on the above self-care tips is more relevant and beneficial.