Eczema in children: treatment and support for effective self-management

Abstract This NIHR Collection brings together major studies on the prevention and treatment of eczema, highlighting which interventions are effective and which do not appear to help. Other studies explore what support children and their families need to better understand and self-manage the condition effectively. The information could not only help parents and clinicians to make informed decisions about how best to help children with eczema, but could also save money for the NHS and parents alike.

This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

In this article…

• Recent research on interventions to prevent and treat childhood eczema

• Misconceptions that get in the way of successful eczema care

• How professionals can support children and their families to self-manage eczema

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We select NIHR-funded research studies that are most likely to be of interest to the public and professionals and inform changes to policy or practice. NIHR Collections bring together NIHR research on a specific theme or health and care topic.

Key points

Research shows which common treatments for eczema work and which may not

The best emollient for treating eczema is the one that suits the child and family

Professionals need to acknowledge the physical and emotional impact of living with eczema

Young people would like a choice of treatments as well as consistent, practical advice

A new website can help children and parents develop their knowledge, skills and confidence about eczema