New Managing Eczema - Eczema Association of Australasia

About eczema

Managing Eczema

Practical strategies and advice to help soothe flare-ups, avoid triggers,

and take control of your eczema.

Get support

Managing eczema can feel like an ongoing battle, affecting not just your skin, but your daily

life and overall well-being. The constant need to soothe flare-ups and avoid triggers can

be frustrating and exhausting.

We're here to help make that journey a little easier. On this page, you'll find practical tips

and advice to manage your eczema day-to-day, understand your triggers, and discover

treatments that work for you. With the right approach and support, you can take steps

toward healthier, more comfortable skin.

Routine Essentials

A consistent skincare routine is key to managing eczema. Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturise regularly to keep your skin hydrated and protected. Opt for products designed for sensitive skin to help soothe irritation and prevent flare-ups.

Identify Your Triggers

Knowing what triggers your eczema is crucial for effective management. Keep a diary of flare-ups to track potential triggers, such as certain foods, fabrics, or environmental factors. By identifying and avoiding these triggers, you can reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

Diet & Nutrition

What you eat can play a big role in how your skin reacts. Certain foods may trigger eczema symptoms or inflammation, while others, like those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can help support skin health. Pay attention to your diet and consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice.

Treatments

For many, eczema management requires more than skincare alone. Topical treatments, prescription medications, and even natural remedies can provide relief. Work with your doctor or dermatologist to explore the best medical options for your specific condition.

Lifestyle

Eczema management goes beyond the skin — stress, sleep, and your environment can also impact flare-ups. Incorporating stress-relieving activities, maintaining a regular sleep routine, and controlling your environment (like reducing allergens) can help you manage eczema more effectively.

Managing eczema

Diagnosing Eczema

Diagnosing eczema(opens in new tab) can be frustrating, as it presents differently in each person. Many people go through trial and error before getting a clear diagnosis. If you've been dealing with persistent skin issues, it's important to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Here are some common methods used to diagnose eczema:

Medical history review: Your doctor will discuss your personal and family history of eczema, allergies, or other related conditions.

Symptom evaluation: A detailed assessment of your symptoms, including when flare-ups occur and what triggers them.

Physical examination: A visual inspection of your skin for common signs of eczema, such as redness, dryness, or inflammation.

Allergy testing: Tests to identify any allergens that could be triggering or worsening your eczema symptoms.

Patch testing: A method to determine if specific substances cause skin reactions, which may contribute to your eczema.

Skin biopsy: A small sample of skin is taken to rule out other skin conditions and confirm a diagnosis of eczema.

While the journey to an eczema diagnosis can feel frustrating and overwhelming, getting the right diagnosis is an essential step in managing your condition and finding relief.

Get support

Managing eczema

Types of Eczema Treatment

Cleansers: Use soap-free cleansers that contain moisturising agents and have a balanced pH, helping the skin stay hydrated and healthy. The skin's barrier is really important for keeping moisture in and protecting against irritants. Regular soaps can damage this barrier, leaving the skin more sensitive.

Moisturisers: Moisturisers are a vital part of managing eczema, helping to hydrate skin, repair the skin barrier, and soothe flare-ups. They come in various forms, including ointments, creams, lotions, gels, sprays and oils, each suited to different needs. Ointments are thick and ideal for very dry skin, while creams are lighter and better for daytime use. Lotions and gels are cooling but less effective for deep hydration; sprays are convenient for hard-to-reach areas, and oils work well in baths or showers to leave a moisturising layer.

Choosing the right moisturiser depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and preferences. Ointments have fewer preservatives, making them good for sensitive skin, while creams and gels may need more frequent application unless they contain humectants. Lotions and sprays offer quick, light hydration, and oils are great for all-over moisture. Since you'll use it daily, pick one you find comfortable and easy to use.

Topical corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory creams and ointments prescribed to settle eczema flare-ups. They come in different strengths, from mild to very potent, and your doctor will recommend the right strength for the area of skin being treated.

Used correctly and as directed by your healthcare professional, topical corticosteroids are safe and effective. Apply them to the affected areas as prescribed, and continue moisturising the rest of the skin. If you have questions or concerns about using corticosteroids, speak with your doctor or pharmacist — stopping treatment too early is a common reason flare-ups return.

Wet wrap therapy can help calm moderate to severe eczema, particularly during flare-ups. After bathing and applying moisturiser (and any prescribed treatment), a layer of damp bandages or clothing is applied over the skin, followed by a dry layer on top.

Wet wraps cool the skin, relieve itching, keep moisturisers working longer, and protect the skin from scratching. They are especially helpful for children overnight. Ask your healthcare professional to show you the technique before trying it at home, and download our Wet Wrapping information sheet for step-by-step guidance.

Diluted bleach baths can reduce bacteria on the skin, helping to prevent infections and reduce inflammation in people with moderate to severe eczema. When prepared correctly, a bleach bath is gentle — similar to a swimming pool — and is considered safe for children.

The key is correct dilution: follow the measurements recommended by your healthcare professional, soak for around 10 minutes, rinse, pat dry and moisturise straight away. Always consult your doctor before starting bleach baths, and download our Bleach Baths information sheet for detailed instructions.

For severe eczema that does not respond to topical treatments, your dermatologist may recommend systemic treatments — medications that work throughout the whole body. These include traditional immunosuppressant medications, as well as newer targeted therapies such as biologics and JAK inhibitors.

Systemic treatments require medical supervision, with regular reviews and sometimes blood tests. If your eczema is significantly affecting your quality of life, talk to your doctor or dermatologist about whether a systemic treatment may be right for you.

Eczema FAQs

Managing eczema

Lifestyle adjustments

Making simple lifestyle adjustments can play a key role in managing eczema and reducing flare-ups. Small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact on the health of your skin and overall well-being.

Stress management: Emotional stress can trigger or worsen eczema. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and keep flare-ups at bay.

Sleep hygiene: A good night's rest supports skin health and gives your body time to heal. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and keeping your environment cool and comfortable can help prevent eczema from disrupting your sleep.

Dietary choices: Eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, can support healthy skin. Some people find that avoiding certain food triggers, like dairy or gluten, helps manage their eczema.

Hydration: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day keeps your skin hydrated and helps it maintain its natural barrier.

Environmental control: Reducing allergens and irritants in your home, such as using a humidifier, opting for fragrance-free products, and keeping your living space clean, can prevent flare-ups.

These lifestyle changes can help you better manage eczema, improving both your skin's condition and your overall quality of life.

Get support