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The itching of my eczema is driving me nuts – normally it has started to clear up at this time of year but not this year – any recommendations to soothe? (Paul)

Eczema is an itchy skin condition that can be uncomfortable during flares. Some people find that their eczema flares in the summer months due to irritation caused by sweating. Keeping cool and use of oat or urea-based moisturisers with anti-itch properties may improve your symptoms. You may also wish to see your GP who can prescribe antihistamines or topical steroids if appropriate.

Dear Paul,

Itch can be very frustrating and trigger stress and of course scratching. This can set up vicious cycles of itch-stress & scratching-inflammation/skin damage-itch..... scratching can in some cases also become a habit and occur when there is minimal or lower levels of itch.

There's a new website out that offers some advice on managing itch see https://www.eczemacareonline.org.uk/en?language_set=1

I hope this is useful and if not do seek support from local healthcare services as holistic dermatology care may include medication review and access to habit reversal / itch management.

Kind regards,

Andrew