Eczema and Dermatitis: When to See a GP

Eczema and Dermatitis: When to See a GP

Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) is one of the most common skin conditions in Australia, affecting around 1 in 3 children and 1 in 10 adults. It causes dry, itchy, red, and inflamed skin that can significantly affect quality of life. This guide covers the basics, treatment options, and when to see a GP.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition where the skin barrier does not work properly, allowing moisture to escape and irritants and allergens to enter. This leads to dryness, itching, and inflammation. It often runs in families alongside asthma and hay fever (the “atopic triad”).

“Dermatitis” is a broader term for skin inflammation and includes atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and others.

Common Eczema Symptoms

  • Dry, sensitive, itchy skin
  • Red, inflamed patches — often in skin folds (elbows, knees, neck, wrists)
  • Small, raised bumps that may leak fluid when scratched
  • Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin from chronic scratching
  • Sleep disturbance in children due to night itching
  • Flares triggered by stress, weather changes, or allergens

Common Triggers

  • Dry air and cold weather
  • Hot showers and harsh soaps
  • Wool, synthetic fabrics, and perfumed laundry detergents
  • Dust mites, pet dander, and pollens
  • Stress and fatigue
  • Sweat and heat
  • Certain foods (in some children — less common in adults)

When to See a GP

  • Eczema that does not respond to over-the-counter moisturisers within a couple of weeks
  • Severe itching affecting sleep, work, or school
  • Skin that is weeping, crusting, or looks infected
  • Widespread eczema covering large body areas
  • Eczema in a baby or young child that is distressing
  • Sudden worsening despite your usual treatment
  • Fever with worsening skin — possible bacterial infection
  • Painful blisters or cold-sore-like spots — possible herpes infection (eczema herpeticum), which is a medical emergency

Daily Management: The Basics

  • Moisturise at least twice a day: Use a thick, fragrance-free emollient. Apply while skin is still damp after bathing to lock in moisture.
  • Short lukewarm showers or baths: Avoid hot water. Use a soap-free wash (e.g. QV, Cetaphil, Hamilton).
  • Pat dry, do not rub: Leave skin slightly damp, then moisturise.
  • Avoid known triggers: Identify what makes your eczema worse and minimise exposure.
  • Wear cotton next to skin: Avoid wool and synthetic fabrics directly on inflamed areas.
  • Keep cool: Heat and sweat often worsen itching. Air-conditioning in summer helps.
  • Manage stress: Stress is a well-recognised flare trigger in many people.

Prescription Treatments

  • Topical corticosteroids: Still the first-line prescription treatment for flares. Your GP will choose an appropriate strength for the affected area — mild for face and children, stronger for body. Used correctly and under supervision, they are safe.
  • Topical calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus): Non-steroid option for sensitive areas like the face. Useful for long-term control.
  • Oral antihistamines: Can help with sleep if night itching is a problem, though not a primary treatment.
  • Antibiotics: Only if there is a bacterial skin infection.
  • Newer biologics (dupilumab): For severe eczema not controlled by topical treatments. Available under the PBS for eligible patients. Needs dermatologist prescription.

Steroid Phobia — The Truth

Many parents and patients are reluctant to use topical steroids because of fear of side effects. Used as directed — correct strength for the area, applied for the right duration — topical steroids are safe and very effective. Undertreated eczema causes more harm (sleep loss, infections, lichenification) than appropriate steroid use. Talk to your GP about your concerns; they will recommend the lowest effective strength and duration.

Eczema in Babies and Children

Childhood eczema often starts in the first 6 months of life. Many children outgrow it by school age, though some continue to have flares as adults. Key points for parents:

  • Moisturise multiple times a day — wet wrap therapy can help in severe cases
  • Use fragrance-free laundry detergent and double-rinse clothes
  • Cotton onesies under clothing can reduce friction
  • Keep nails short to minimise scratching damage
  • If eczema is severe or infected, see a GP promptly

For more on children’s GP care, see our children’s health page.

Find a Family Doctor Clinic Near You

Eczema is highly manageable with the right treatment plan. Do not put up with itchy, sleepless nights or embarrassing flares — book a GP appointment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can eczema be cured?

There is no “cure” but eczema can be very well controlled with consistent moisturising and prescription treatment during flares. Many children outgrow eczema; adult eczema tends to be lifelong but manageable.

Is eczema an allergy?

Not exactly. Eczema is linked to immune dysfunction and a defective skin barrier, but it is not a classic allergy. Some people have eczema that is worsened by specific food allergies (mainly in infants) but most eczema is not food-driven.

Can I use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream?

Yes for mild flares on body areas — short-term use is safe. For face, armpits, groin, or children under 2, see a GP first for appropriate selection. If symptoms do not improve within a week of OTC hydrocortisone, see a GP for stronger treatment.

Is eczema contagious?

No. You cannot catch eczema from someone else. If eczema becomes infected with bacteria or herpes virus, that infection is contagious — but the eczema itself is not.