Eczema - What will happen?

Many children's eczema clears up when they reach their early teens.

Overall, about 6 in 10 children grow out of their eczema altogether or have milder symptoms as they grow older. But most people will still tend to have dry and irritable skin. And sometimes eczema can come back when you are an adult, often on your hands.[1]

Eczema affects people differently. It's likely that you or your child will go through phases, called flare-ups, when the symptoms are especially bad. At other times, the symptoms may go away completely.[1]

Although eczema can sometimes cause a lot of pain and stress, most people who have it lead normal lives. There are several treatments, and it's possible to keep symptoms under control so that you hardly notice them.[1]

There are a number of things you can do to help keep your skin in good condition. They help prevent flare-ups and help you feel better generally. To learn more, see Things you can do to help.

References

National Health Service; National prescribing centre. Atopic Eczema in primary care. Available at http://www.npc.co.uk/MeReC_Bulletins/2003Volumes/Vol14no1.pdf (accessed on 7 September 2006).

This information does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned you might have a medical problem please ask your Boots pharmacy team in your local Boots store, or see your doctor.