Eczema Creams

Eczema is the inflammation of the skin which produces symptoms such as dryness, rash and itchiness, flaking and redness of the affected areas. It can be caused by genetic factors and is particularly prevailent with people who have hay fever and asthma. Eczema is also caused by allergies or comming into contact with an irritant such as strong washing up liquids and soaps.

An eczema flare up can also occur as a result of an allergy. It can be very difficult to determine which substance has caused such a reaction. In some cases it may be necessary to take a test where blood is taken from the patient and mixed with different allergens. In each case, the blood's antibody levels are measured and will exhibit an increased level of antibodies to indicate which substance is the allergen.

Eczema Creams are used to treat flare ups and are typically moisturising because of the dryness of skin. However, eczema cream is quickly absorbed into the skin and therefore needs frequent re-application. Ointment on the other hand has less water and so will stay on the skin longer but are not always appropriate because they leave the skin greasy.

Some eczema creams may contain anti itch agents such as antihistamine or menthol which stops the patient from scratching the affected area which would further damage the sensitive skin.

Corticosteroid creams can be used to treat severe cases of eczema and work by inhibiting immune responses. These can cause atrophy which makes the skin fragile and occlusion which is the absorbtion of the medicine into the blood, and so are not usually suitable for long term use.