Key facts
- Eczema makes the skin dry, itchy and inflamed, with flare-ups that come and go.
- It is not contagious.
- Atopic eczema is common in children and often runs in families with eczema, asthma or hay fever.
- Daily moisturisers (emollients) are the mainstay of eczema care at every age.
- It is usually diagnosed from the appearance of the skin and your history.
Signs and symptoms
Eczema usually causes itchy, dry skin that may look red, or darker brown, purple or grey on brown and black skin. Affected areas may become scaly, cracked, weepy or thickened, commonly in the elbow and knee creases, on the hands and neck, and on babies' cheeks. Symptoms often flare and settle over time.
Symptoms alone cannot always tell eczema apart from fungal infection, scabies, psoriasis or contact dermatitis, so a persistent or unusual rash should be checked by a doctor.
Risk factors
Family history of eczema, asthma or hay fever
Personal history of asthma or hay fever
Dry or sensitive skin
Frequent contact with soaps, detergents or other irritants
Hot, humid weather and sweating
Stress
Common causes
Eczema results from a mix of inherited tendency and a weakened skin barrier. Flares are often triggered by irritants such as soaps and detergents, heat and sweating, allergens such as dust mites or pollen, infections, stress or hormonal changes.
How it is checked
A doctor asks when the rash started, where it appears, how itchy it is, how it affects sleep, possible triggers and any family history of eczema, asthma or hay fever, then examines the skin. Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on the pattern of the rash over time. Tests such as a skin swab, fungal scraping or allergy testing are only considered in selected cases, for example when infection or contact allergy is suspected.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if the rash is new or unclear, itching disturbs sleep or daily life, moisturisers and simple skin care are not helping, or flares keep coming back.
Urgent warning signs
Seek prompt medical care if eczema suddenly becomes painful, blistered or weepy with open sores, spreads quickly, or you feel unwell with a fever, as these can be signs of infection or eczema herpeticum.
Frequently asked questions
Is eczema contagious?
No. Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition, not an infection, so it cannot be caught from someone else.
Can eczema be cured?
There is no permanent cure, but daily moisturising, avoiding triggers and prescribed treatment can keep it well controlled, and it often improves over time, especially in children.
Is steroid cream safe for eczema?
Yes, when used as prescribed. Topical steroids are the first-line treatment for flares, and your doctor will choose a suitable strength for the body area and your age.
Which moisturiser is best for eczema?
The best moisturiser is one you will use regularly. There is no reliable evidence that one emollient works better than another, so choose a fragrance-free product you find comfortable.
Does food allergy cause eczema?
Not usually on its own. Food can be a trigger in some young children, but speak to a doctor before cutting out foods, especially for a growing child.