DRY ITCHY ECZEMA SKIN

There is an inherited tendency for the immune system to overreact to certain environmental factors, causing disruption of the skin's barrier function - inflammation, redness and itching.

The dermatologist 'People with atopic eczema often have drier, itchier skin,' Dr Mayou says. 'Initial treatment should be a moisturiser and a soap substitute. The second line of defence is to suppress the immune reaction with topical steroids. The newest one (no long-term trials have been done on it yet) is tacrolimus ointment (also known as Protopic), used when eczema hasn't responded to emollients and steroids. UV light is helpful. Avoid environmental allergens, such as pollen and fur.'

'I've found that most eczema sufferers are allergic to something. I run a food intolerance check, then eliminate identified allergens. To reduce inflammatory potential, increase your intake of omega-3 fats and decrease meat and milk, both high in arachidonic acid which promotes inflammation. Caffeine and stress also aggravate eczema.' Vitamin A cream in limited amounts helps to heal skin.