Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes symptoms like dryness, irritation and itching. Flare-ups happen when symptoms suddenly worsen, skin can become red, sore and cracked. Eczema flare-ups often manifest as dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin, leading to discomfort. Although there's no cure for eczema, various effective methods exist to soothe flare-ups and maintain long-term skin health.

This blog takes a closer look at what happens during an eczema flare-up and offers practical advice for calming irritation and supporting long-term skin health.

Symptoms of Eczema Flare-Ups

Eczema is a long-term skin condition where the skin barrier becomes weakened, leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. During a flare-up, the skin’s protective barrier becomes particularly compromised, leading to irritation and inflammation. Typical symptoms include:

• Persistent itching or burning sensations
• Dry, cracked or scaly skin
• Red or inflamed patches (which may appear discoloured on the skin)
• Thickened skin from repeated scratching 
• Pus-filled blisters on skin, which can rupture, sometimes called weeping eczema. Weeping eczema is a skin problem that is more commonly found in babies and young children; however, adults can also suffer from it.

Types Of Eczema

• Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis)– the most common type of eczema
• Discoid eczema – a more serious type of eczema that shows up as round patches on skin
• Contact dermatitis – this type is caused by contact with certain substances, such as allergens or certain soaps and detergents
• Varicose eczema – is most common in those with varicose veins, affecting their lower legs
• Seborrhoeic eczema – manifests as red and scaly patches on skin, particularly around the nose, ears and on scalp
• Dyshidrotic eczema – this type causes small blisters across the palms of your hands

How To Manage Eczema Flare-Ups

Eczema management involves daily skin care, topical treatments, and/or internal support to keep the skin barrier strong and reduce inflammation.

“When it comes to eczema, restoring and maintaining the skin barrier is key. Regular moisturising with a rich, fragrance-free emollient helps reduce flare-ups and supports long-term skin health.” – Neesha Desai, Pharmacist at Landys Chemist

Topical Care 

At Landys Chemist, we recommend trusted, pharmacist-approved skincare that helps reduce discomfort, repair the skin barrier, and keep eczema under control. Below are some of our favourite options for eczema-prone skin, or click here to browse our full collection for eczema and very dry skin.

Lifestyle changes

• Limit hot showers: Use warm, not hot, water and keep bathing time short to prevent skin dryness.
• Use soap substitutes: Choose fragrance-free, gentle cleansers instead of regular soap. 
• Avoid Synthetic Fabrics: Certain fabrics can also increase irritation and these tend to be synthetic fibres like polyester and nylon, or rough materials such as wool or linen. Instead aim for breathable natural fibres like cotton or silk and loose fitting clothes that allow your skin to breathe. 
• Pat skin dry, don’t rub: After bathing, gently pat the skin with a soft towel rather than rubbing to avoid friction.
• Choose mild laundry detergents: Opt for fragrance-free, non-bio detergents to minimise skin irritation from clothing.

Supplements to support

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in sources like flaxseed, chia, and fish oil, are essential fats that play a role in regulating inflammation and supporting overall skin health.
• L-Histidine: L-Histidine supports the production of filaggrin, a key protein that strengthens the skin barrier. Studies show it can reduce eczema flare-ups and improve hydration when taken as a daily supplement.
• Probiotics: Healthy gut bacteria can influence skin health through the gut–skin axis. Probiotic supplements may help reduce inflammatory responses linked to eczema.
• Quercetin: A plant-derived antioxidant that helps calm inflammation and stabilise histamine release, which can ease itching and redness during flare-up

When To Consult a Doctor

You should seek medical advice if your eczema does not improve with regular moisturising or over-the-counter treatments, if itching disrupts your daily life, or if large areas of skin are affected. For mild eczema, a pharmacist can provide advice. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, consult your GP or dermatologist.

Summary

Eczema is a common and often long-term skin condition, but flare-ups can be managed with the right care. From daily moisturising and lifestyle habits to targeted products and supportive nutrients like L-Histidine and Quercetin, small changes can make a big difference. Consistency and professional guidance remain key to keeping eczema under control and maintaining healthy, comfortable skin.

This article was medically reviewed by Girish Desai, Chief Pharmacist at Landys Chemist since 1982 (GPhC Reg. No. 2019217). Written and compiled by Wiktoria Suder, Digital Marketing Coordinator at Landys Chemist.

 Disclaimer: This content is grounded in research and expert pharmacy and nutrition knowledge to ensure accuracy and relevance. All studies referenced in this article are human clinical studies to ensure validity and reliability of the information provided.

Sources

1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/atopic-eczema/
2. Dermatological Skincare for Eczema | Landys Chemist 
3. Fabric Selection in Atopic Dermatitis: An Evidence-Based Review - PubMed 
4. Feeding filaggrin: effects of l-histidine supplementation in atopic dermatitis - PubMed 
5. Quercetin Improves Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Impaired Wound Healing in Atopic Dermatitis Model of Human Keratinocytes