Varicose ezcema

[Harrison1]

I have varicose ezcema and have been told to put 'makeup' to cover the 'rash' I have on the bottom of my leg which is unsightly. Is there anything else I can do to hide the rash please

[Dr Helen Webberley]

Hi, have you ever tried a mild steroid cream? Any chance you could share a photo? Dr Webberley

[Dr Anjali Mahto]

Many thanks for your question regarding varicose eczema.

Often the skin changes that occur with this condition develop over many years and the associated skin changes can potentially become permanent if treatment isn't initiated.

It is important to do the following:
1. Ensure that you are washing your legs with a soap substitute - soaps/shower gels should be avoided
2. Moisturise regularly at least once or twice a day
3. Use of steroid creams for a period of 1-2 weeks if eczema is active or red/itchy/scaly - repeat these courses as necessary
4. Elevate your legs when possible
5. Wear compression stockings (see your GP for these) if there is any associated swelling or oedema of the legs - this is important to reduce the risk of any ulcers forming in the future

This link may be helpful http://www.dermnetnz.org/dermatitis/venous-eczema.html

I hope these measures provide some relief and this information is helpful.

Best wishes,

Dr Anjali Mahto

[Dr Anton Alexandroff]

Thank you for your question.

This can be a challenging condition to manage. I completely agree with Dr Mahto recommendations. I would add that a greasier moisturisers tend to be more effective (e.g. emulsifying, hydromol or epaderm ointment) and that the duration and strength of steroid ointments should be directed by your family doctor or dermatologist. Compression stockings, after checking leg circulation by your GP) are usually helpful but sometime we have to use compression bandages.

I hope this is helpful.
With best wishes,

Dr Anton Alexandroff MCP(UK) CCT(Dermatology) FAAD FRSM
Consultant Dermatologist in Leicester Spire and Nuffield Health Hospitals and University Hospitals of Leicester
Member of the British Association of Dermatologists
www.alexandroff.org.uk

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