Eczema. Everything you need to know

Evidence-based treatments for eczema

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes patches of skin to become inflamed, red, itchy, cracked, and rough. It can affect both children and adults, appear on various parts of the body, and often flares in recurring cycles. While eczema is not contagious, it can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally distressing, with impacts on sleep, mood, and overall quality of life.

Dermatologists who consult at Northside Dermatology are experienced in the diagnosis and management of all types of eczema. Management plans may include practical strategies, prescription treatments, and individualised skincare recommendations to support long-term control and skin comfort.

A consultation is recommended for personalised assessment and guidance.

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About Eczema

Treatments

What is Eczema?

There are many types of eczema, each with different characteristics and triggers. The condition is not caused by poor hygiene or infection. Instead, it often runs in families and is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. A weakened skin barrier and overactive immune response are often also involved.

Common eczema triggers include:

Dry skin/impaired skin barrier function
Heat
Excessive friction on the skin
Irritants (eg. wet wipes, soap, toners, exfoliating cream)
Bacterial infection or overgrowth on the skin
Environmental allergens (e.g. pollen, dust mites, pet dander, grasses)
Stress
Weather (particularly cold and dry climates)
Viral illnesses

Eczema affects everyone differently. One person’s triggers might not be the same as another person’s triggers, and it may take time to identify yours thoroughly.

Because eczema can take many forms, we recommend consulting with a professional to receive a personalised treatment plan that encompasses both immediate care and strategies for long-term management. Schedule an appointment with a consultanting specialist dermatologist at Northside Dermatology by calling us on 03 8582 8688.

Eczema treatments

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and controlling flares through lifestyle changes, prescription medication and in-office treatments.

Because eczema can take many forms, we recommend consulting with a professional to receive a personalised treatment plan that encompasses both immediate care and strategies for long-term management. Managing eczema often requires a multi-faceted approach, combining daily maintenance with targeted treatments during flare-ups. The specialist dermatologists who consult at Northside Dermatology have extensive experience in all aspects of eczema prevention and treatment to help patients find a routine that works for them.

Depending on the severity, triggers and type of your eczema, your dermatologist may recommend topical treatments, systemic treatments or phototherapy. Read about some of our treatments below. For a personalised plan, book an appointment with us today.

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UVB Phototherapy

This non-drug treatment involves exposing the skin to a specific, narrow range of ultraviolet B (UVB) light.

Best for: Moderate to severe eczema

Down time: None

Comments: This controlled UV light acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.

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Topical Prescription Medications

These are creams, ointments, or lotions applied directly to the skin to control inflammation and itch.

Best for: First-line treatment

Down time: None

Comments: Topical Corticosteroids are the most common first-line prescription treatment.

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Oral Medications

Oral medications and injection treatment for eczema suppress the immune system, reducing its ability to send an inflammatory response to the skin.

Best for: Severe eczema

Down time: Treatment dependent

Comments: Treatments can only be prescribed and monitored by a specialist.

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UVB Phototherapy: The Gold Standard Treatment For Eczema

Northside Dermatology provides access to narrowband UVB phototherapy, a medically supervised light-based treatment used in the management of chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, lichen planus, and pruritus (chronic itching). This form of targeted ultraviolet B light helps reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses within the skin.

Unlike cosmetic tanning beds, narrowband UVB phototherapy is delivered in a controlled clinical setting to maximise benefit while minimising risk. Treatments are conducted under medical supervision and are eligible for Medicare rebates when clinically indicated.

To determine suitability, a consultation with a dermatologist who consults at the clinic is required.

Frequently asked questions

What practical advice can you give me when I have eczema?

At-home care plays a critical role in eczema maintenance.

Avoid drying agents and products that irritate your skin, such as certain soaps, detergents and skincare products.
Use mild temperature water for showers and baths.
Moisturise your skin liberally and often, particularly after bathing. Moisturisers can be applied to wet skin straight after a bath or shower.
Use creams rather than lotions as moisturisers for better hydration.
Avoid excessive heat when possible. Turn the heating down at home. Avoid electric blankets in winter.
Wear soft clothing that does not cause friction against your skin.
Wear clothing made of breathable materials.
Take measures to reduce your exposure to household dust mites and other allergens.
During a flare up, keep your fingernails short to reduce trauma from scratching.
Only apply prescription creams to the affected area, not on healthy skin.

What medical treatment is available for eczema?

Depending on the type and severity of your eczema, a specialist dermatologist may recommend combining practical lifestyle changes like those above with medical treatment.

Prescription options for managing eczema include steroid creams and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory creams applied topically to the affected skin.

For moderate to severe cases of eczema that do not respond to topical treatments, phototherapy or oral medication may be used. Phototherapy is an in-office treatment that involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light to reduce the body’s inflammatory response. Oral medications and injection treatment for eczema suppress the immune system, reducing its ability to send an inflammatory response to the skin.

Can I exercise if I have eczema, or will sweating make it worse?

You should continue to exercise, but manage your sweat carefully. Sweat contains salt, which can irritate already inflamed skin. To minimise flare-ups during exercise:

Wear Loose, Cotton Clothing to allow your skin to breathe.
Exercise in a Cool Environment if possible.
Shower immediately after exercising using a gentle, non-soap cleanser, and perform the “soak and seal” method (pat dry, immediately apply medication/moisturiser) to soothe the skin.

How is eczema different from psoriasis?

Both cause red, scaly patches, but they are distinct conditions:

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Causes intense, deep itchiness; patches are often poorly defined, and frequently appear in the creases (behind the knees, inside the elbows). It is a skin barrier and immune dysfunction.
Psoriasis: Causes milder itch, often with a burning sensation; patches are typically very thick, sharply defined, and covered with silvery scales, appearing on the outside of joints (knees, elbows, scalp). It is a true autoimmune condition where skin cells grow too quickly.

What is the "itch-scratch cycle" and how can I stop it?

The itch-scratch cycle is the core problem in eczema. The rash causes an intense itch; scratching the skin damages the barrier further, which releases more inflammatory chemicals, causing more itch. Breaking this cycle is key to healing. You can stop it by immediately applying your prescribed topical steroid or a thick, cold layer of moisturiser to calm the skin, rather than scratching.

Why do dermatologists often recommend a diluted bleach bath?

Bleach baths (using a very small amount of regular household bleach diluted in a large tub of water) are an effective way to reduce bacteria (specifically Staphylococcus aureus) on the skin. Eczema-affected skin is prone to harbouring this bacterium, which can worsen inflammation and itching. A diluted bleach bath helps reduce this load, calming infection-prone or constantly irritated skin.

How are "moisturisers" different from "topical steroids"?

They serve two different purposes:

Moisturisers (Emollients): Provide long-term maintenance. They hydrate the skin and repair the physical barrier to prevent future flares. They should be used daily, even when the skin is clear.
Topical Steroids: Are a targeted medication used only for active flares. They rapidly calm the intense inflammation, redness, and itch. They should be used only as prescribed by your dermatologist, then stopped once the flare is controlled.

Is there a cure for eczema?

Eczema is a chronic, non-infectious condition caused by a combination of genetics and an over-reactive immune system. Currently, there is no permanent cure, but there are highly effective treatments (including the ones discussed on this page) that can successfully manage symptoms, heal the skin, and prevent flare-ups for long periods.

Can you recommend a daily eczema care routine?

A dermatologist will walk you through a tailored treatment plan and care routine that addresses your specific needs. When it comes to daily care, moisturising is the cornerstone of eczema management. Eczema skin has a damaged barrier, which allows moisture out and irritants in. High-quality, fragrance-free moisturisers (ointments are best for very dry skin) should be applied liberally and frequently, ideally within three minutes of bathing or showering, to “seal in” the water and protect the skin barrier. The dermatologists who consult at Northside Dermatology can recommend moisturisers. Contact us today on 03 8582 8688

Does diet or a food allergy cause eczema?

For most adults, food does not cause eczema. For a small percentage of young children with severe eczema, a food allergy (like cow’s milk or egg) may be a trigger that worsens the condition. If a food allergy is suspected, a dermatologist or allergy specialist will perform tests to confirm if the food is genuinely impacting the skin. Removing foods unnecessarily can lead to nutritional gaps.

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Your Eczema Solution Awaits

Eczema can appear in various forms and often requires an individualised approach to care. A consultation with a specialist dermatologist who consults at Northside Dermatology is recommended to assess your skin and develop a tailored treatment plan focused on both symptom relief and long-term management.

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Two Melbourne Clinics

Northside Dermatology operates from modern facilities in Fitzroy North and Reservoir. Consulting dermatologists and doctors offer a range of medical and aesthetic skin treatments, supported by a team of cosmetic nurses and dermal therapists.

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