When Should You See an Eczema Specialist?
Most eczema can be managed with moisturisers and short courses of cream. But if your eczema is controlling your life rather than the other way round, it is time for more focused help.
Signs it is time to get more focused help
Your eczema has not cleared after several weeks of regular treatment.
You have needed repeated courses of steroid cream in the past year.
It keeps coming back in the same places.
It affects your sleep, or your child's sleep, most nights.
It is on sensitive areas such as the face, eyelids or genitals and you are unsure what is safe to use.
You have had skin infections, or your eczema weeps, crusts or bleeds.
It is affecting work, school, exercise or your mood.
You are worried about using steroids and want a clear plan.
Your diagnosis is uncertain.
What does a GP who focuses on eczema do differently?
Eczema-doc is led by a GP who treats eczema only and has treated thousands of patients with it. That experience helps in recognising what is keeping eczema active, choosing the right treatment strength for each area of the body, spotting infection, and planning how to reduce treatment safely once the skin has cleared.
Dermatologist or GP-led eczema clinic?
Dermatologists are consultant specialists in all skin conditions. They are the right choice for complex diagnoses, patch testing, phototherapy and systemic treatments such as biologics. Waiting times can be long, particularly in the NHS.
eczema-doc is a GP-led clinic, not a dermatology service. Our doctor is a GP who treats eczema only, using an individualised topical treatment approach. For many people with persistent eczema, this is a faster route to getting the condition under control, and we will refer you on or advise you to see a dermatologist if that is what you need.
When to seek urgent care instead
Do not wait for a routine appointment if eczema becomes suddenly painful with clusters of blisters or punched-out sores, you develop a fever or feel unwell, or a baby with eczema is feeding poorly or seems unwell. Seek same-day medical care.
Seeing us
Eczema-doc is a fully virtual, GP-led clinic. Consultations are by video, and we see adults and children. Follow-up reviews at two and four weeks allow us to adjust treatment as your skin improves.
This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.