Dermatologists at The London Clinic see many cases of eczema as it is such a common skin disease. Successful therapy usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes with medical treatment.
Need answers quickly?
Our Rapid Diagnostics Centre offers fast access to advanced imaging, specialist clinics and on-site testing - helping you get clarity in days, not weeks. Plus, our 24/7 private GP service is here whenever you need urgent advice.
Our charitable purpose
As a charitable hospital, we reinvest in exceptional care, research and innovation - helping us improve healthcare for patients here and far beyond our walls.
Everything you need for your visit
Your Patient Hub brings together everything you need to prepare for your visit, understand your care and know what to expect throughout your stay.
Get answers fast
See a doctor or consultant within days
Advanced imaging and tests
Quick access to leading diagnostics on-site
World-class specialists
Expert support guiding your next steps
On this page
What causes eczema?
Eczema runs in families, affecting around 20% of children in the UK, often from an early age. Many children grow out of it and the prevalence of eczema in the adult population reduces to about 8%.
The symptoms of eczema range in severity from small patches of dry, itchy, red skin to multiple broken, weeping sores that can easily become infected.
Eczema can flare up, getting rapidly worse for a time, usually in response to a specific trigger. A wide range of environmental and emotional factors affect eczema including:
- Allergies to pets, dust mites, artificial fibres, metals and other substances
- Food allergies including nuts, wheat and dairy products
- Sweating due to exercise or warm temperatures
- Stress, which can create a positive feedback loop, as an eczema flare-up can cause more stress
- Bathing products that can irritate and dry the skin causing it to crack around eczema sites
Why choose The London Clinic?
Trusted for over 90 years, The London Clinic is an independent charitable hospital that reinvests into care, research, and support for those who can’t easily access private treatment.
The UK’s largest independent hospital
More patients choose The London Clinic than any other.
Top-rated by real patients
4.86/5 from over 1,600 reviews on Doctify and over 4.5 on Google.
Full intensive care on-site
World-class 13-bed ICU for expert support if your care becomes complex.
Investing in clinical excellence
Backed by Northwestern, we equip our teams with cutting-edge medical equipment.