Eczema: Causes, Types & Treatment Options in the UK
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes dryness, itching, redness and irritation. It affects people of all ages and can range from mild patches of dry skin to more severe flare-ups that significantly impact comfort and quality of life.
In the UK, eczema is one of the most common skin conditions. While it cannot always be permanently cured, professional eczema treatment can help manage symptoms, reduce flare-ups and improve overall skin health.
Early intervention and personalised treatment planning are key to long-term control.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is commonly linked to a combination of genetic, immune and environmental factors. The condition develops when the skin barrier becomes weakened, allowing irritants and allergens to trigger inflammation.
Common causes and triggers include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Immune system dysfunction
- Stress
- Allergens
- Harsh skincare products
- Cold or dry weather
- Hormonal changes
Understanding individual triggers is an important part of effective eczema treatment.
Types of Eczema
- Atopic – The most common form of eczema and is more common in children.
- Contact dermatitis – It appears as a red, itchy rash that can be caused by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to it. It is not contagious or life-threatening, but it can be uncomfortable.
- Neurodermatitis – This skin condition is typically characterised by chronic itching or scaling. You may notice raised, rough and itchy areas of skin. It will normally appear on the neck, wrists, forearms, and legs.
- Dyshidrotic eczema – Typically affecting only the hands and feet, this eczema typically lasts for life but can be controlled with treatment.
- Nummular eczema – This is a treatable chronic condition, and it causes coin-shaped spots to appear on the skin. Areas can often be very itchy and well-defined, and they may ooze clear fluid or become dry.
- Seborrheic dermatitis – Also known as dandruff and cradle cap, this eczema causes an itchy rash with flaky scales and can cause redness on light skin and light patches on darker skin.
- Stasis dermatitis – A common form of eczema, it develops in people who typically have poor blood flow
Eczema Treatment Options in the UK
Eczema treatment focuses on calming inflammation, restoring the skin barrier and reducing the frequency and severity of flare-ups. The most appropriate treatment depends on the type of eczema, its severity and how your skin responds to therapy.
Professional treatment may help:
- Reduce itching and redness
- Calm inflamed skin
- Strengthen the skin barrier
- Improve skin texture and comfort
- Minimise long-term flare-ups
Exciplex Light Therapy
Exciplex light therapy delivers targeted UV light to inflamed areas of the skin. This helps reduce inflammation and regulate immune activity in the affected region without exposing surrounding healthy skin.
Light therapy may be particularly suitable for:
- Localised eczema patches
- Persistent areas that do not respond to topical treatment
- Moderate to severe eczema
Treatment is delivered in controlled sessions over several weeks, depending on individual response.
LED Phototherapy
LED phototherapy uses specific wavelengths of light to calm irritated skin and reduce inflammation. It is a non-invasive treatment option that can support overall skin recovery.
LED therapy may help:
- Reduce redness
- Improve hydration
- Promote skin healing
- Support maintenance between flare-ups
A personalised consultation determines whether light-based therapy is suitable for your condition.
How Much Does Eczema Treatment Cost in the UK?
The cost of eczema treatment in the UK varies depending on the severity of the condition, the treatment method recommended and the number of sessions required.
Factors that influence pricing include:
- Size and location of affected areas
- Frequency of flare-ups
- Type of light therapy used
- Number of treatment sessions
- Ongoing maintenance requirements
Following a consultation, a personalised treatment plan will outline the recommended course of treatment and associated costs.
Early treatment may help reduce the need for prolonged therapy.
