Eczema Treatment & Management Online

What is eczema?

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterised by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. The Australasian College of Dermatologists adult management consensus estimates that atopic dermatitis affects 10–15% of the Australasian population — up to 2.8 million Australians — and is particularly common in children, though many adults continue to experience flare-ups throughout their lives.

Symptoms include dry and sensitive skin, intense itching, red or inflamed patches, rough or scaly areas, and in some cases, oozing or crusting. Eczema commonly affects the face, hands, inner elbows, and behind the knees, but can appear anywhere on the body.

Eczema is linked to an overactive immune response and a compromised skin barrier. It often runs in families and is associated with other atopic conditions such as asthma and hay fever. Triggers can include irritants, allergens, stress, temperature changes, and certain fabrics.

When to see a doctor about eczema

You should see a GP if your eczema is not controlled with over-the-counter moisturisers, if the itch is disrupting your sleep or daily activities, or if the affected skin shows signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus.

Regular GP reviews are important for ongoing eczema management. Your doctor can adjust your treatment plan as needed and ensure you are using the most effective and appropriate therapies for your skin.

How a telehealth GP can help with eczema

A NewDoc telehealth GP can assess your eczema via video consultation, review your current treatment, and prescribe appropriate medications. Telehealth is well suited for eczema management, as the condition is visually identifiable and ongoing care often involves medication reviews and prescription renewals.

Your GP may prescribe appropriate topical treatments, emollients, and other medications depending on your circumstances. They can also create a chronic disease management plan, provide a referral to a dermatologist for severe cases, and help you identify and manage triggers.

Common eczema triggers

Understanding what triggers your eczema flare-ups is an important part of managing the condition. While triggers vary from person to person, some of the most common include irritants such as soaps, detergents, and fragrances. Allergens like dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mould may also contribute to flare-ups in some people.

Environmental factors can play a role as well. Dry or cold air, sudden humidity changes, and exposure to certain fabrics such as wool or synthetics may irritate sensitive skin. Stress is another well-recognised trigger that can worsen atopic dermatitis symptoms.

In some cases, particularly in children, food allergies may be associated with eczema flare-ups. Hormonal changes and skin infections can also trigger or worsen symptoms. Your GP will assess your individual triggers and may suggest strategies to help you avoid them. An online GP in Australia can discuss trigger management during a bulk billed telehealth consultation.

Treatment options for eczema

The foundation of eczema management is a good moisturising routine. Regular application of emollients helps repair the skin barrier and reduce flare-ups. Your GP can recommend suitable products and prescribe soap-free washes and intensive moisturisers.

For active flare-ups, your GP may prescribe topical treatments matched to the severity and location — see the topical steroid potency ladder below. Severe eczema that does not respond to topical treatments may benefit from a dermatologist referral for systemic therapies (methotrexate, ciclosporin) or newer biologic medications (dupilumab / Dupixent).

Topical steroid potency ladder for eczema

Australian eczema guidelines and the Therapeutic Guidelines recommend matching topical steroid potency to the severity, body site, and patient age. A telehealth GP can prescribe across this ladder:

• Mild — Hydrocortisone 1%: face, eyelids, and skin folds; safe for children and most short-term use. Available on PBS with prescription.
• Moderate — Methylprednisolone aceponate 0.1% (Advantan), Mometasone furoate 0.1% (Elocon): trunk and limbs for moderate flare-ups, typically a short course (1–2 weeks). Once-daily application is convenient.
• Moderate-to-potent — Betamethasone valerate 0.05%: moderate-to-severe flares on body areas other than face.
• Potent — Betamethasone dipropionate 0.05%: severe or thickened (lichenified) eczema, short courses only and not for face or skin folds.

Topical calcineurin inhibitors — tacrolimus 0.03–0.1% ointment (Protopic) and pimecrolimus 1% cream (Elidel) — are steroid-sparing alternatives, particularly useful on the face, eyelids, and skin folds where prolonged steroid use is undesirable. Your GP will choose the right step based on flare severity, your treatment history, and the body site involved.

Eczema in children and infants

Eczema affects up to 1 in 4 Australian children, often starting before age 2. Most cases improve significantly by adolescence. Treatment principles are the same as for adults — thick emollients, soap-free washes, lukewarm baths, and topical steroids matched to severity. Hydrocortisone 1% is the typical first-line steroid for infant face and skin folds. Wet-wrap therapy can be effective for severe paediatric flares and your GP can explain how to do it safely. If your child has not responded to standard treatment, or has recurrent skin infections, paediatric dermatology referral can be issued during the consult. Food allergy investigation is sometimes warranted for moderate-to-severe infant eczema not responding to optimised topical care.

Daily skincare tips for eczema

A consistent daily skincare routine may help reduce the frequency and severity of eczema flare-ups. Moisturising regularly is key, especially immediately after bathing while the skin is still slightly damp, as this may help lock in hydration. Using lukewarm water rather than hot water for baths and showers can also help, as hot water may strip the skin of its natural oils.

Choosing soap-free and fragrance-free cleansers is generally recommended for people with atopic dermatitis, as harsh products may irritate sensitive skin. After washing, patting the skin dry gently with a soft towel rather than rubbing may help reduce irritation. Wearing soft, breathable fabrics like cotton can also make a difference for those with eczema.

Keeping nails short may help reduce skin damage from scratching, which is particularly helpful for children with eczema. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or regular exercise may also support overall skin health. Your GP can provide personalised skincare advice during a bulk billed telehealth appointment and recommend products suited to your skin. If you need ongoing eczema treatment online, regular reviews with your GP can help keep your management plan on track.