Golden rules

These creams are used to get control of eczema. They are:

• Used to treat flare-ups where the skin is more sore or itchy than normal
• These are usually topical corticosteroids (also called steroid creams).  Sometimes they are other flare control creams.

Most people with eczema will need to use flare control creams at some point.

Use them as soon as there is a flare-up.

During a flare-up, apply generously once a day (or as often as directed by your health professional) to all areas of inflammation until your skin feels smooth and is itch-free.

Apply generously to areas of skin affected by eczema, not just the worst areas

Use them until your skin feels smooth and is itch-free. It is a good idea to follow up with your health professional after 2-4 weeks.

Yes. Studies show that flare control creams are safe when used following the instructions above. They should be applied to the affected skin only.

These creams are used to keep control of eczema. They help to:

• Stop eczema flare-ups by keeping out things that may irritate the skin
• Make the skin soft by locking water in the skin
• Stop itching

Most people with eczema will need to use moisturising creams every day.

At least once a day after bathing. The drier your skin is, the more often you should use a moisturising cream.

The drier your skin is, the more often you should use a moisturising cream.

Put on a thick layer. Moisturising creams cannot be overused.

Always. Use moisturising creams even when your skin is clear will reduce flare-ups in the future.

Yes. Moisturising creams are very safe. They are used by millions of people with eczema across the world. Sometimes people find they irritate or sting. You may need to find one that works for you.