Eczema
NICE guidance for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis starts with “generous amounts of emollients” used frequently and liberally. For skin redness it suggests a topical corticosteroid such as hydrocortisone 1% for mild dermatitis or a slightly stronger one, such as betamethasone valerate 0.025% or clobetasone butyrate 0.05%, for moderate dermatitis. Topical corticosteroids should be used for 48 hours after the flare redness has been controlled.30
Asteatotic or xerotic eczema, also known as eczema craquelé, is usually precipitated by the drying effect of a cold winter, or by dehydrating the skin by excess washing. It is most likely to appear as a ‘crazy pavement’ pattern of cracks or fissures on otherwise dry skin, typically on the lower legs, and typically on older people.31
The Primary Care Dermatology Society recommends copious use of emollients, while restricting bathing but using emollients as a wash. Woollen clothing should not be worn over the affected skin.31