Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
Also known as: eczema, atopic dermatitis, atopic eczema, dermatitis
Eczema causes itchy, dry, inflamed skin that flares and settles. Moisturisers and topical steroids are the foundation of care. Chinese medicine treats it as Shī Zhěn with Wind-Damp-Heat, Blood deficiency with Wind-Dryness, or Spleen deficiency with Damp patterns.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Moisturise generously every day — this is the foundation, even when skin looks clear.
- •Use topical steroids as prescribed during flares; used correctly they are safe.
- •Avoid soap, hot showers and fragranced products.
- •Cotton clothing and cool rooms reduce itch; keep nails short.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Infected or rapidly worsening eczema needs medical care before or alongside Chinese medicine.[,]
- •Do not advise stopping prescribed topical steroids abruptly.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Review every 4 weeks. Track flare frequency, itch score and sleep. Refer to GP/dermatology for infection, poor control despite good topical care, or suspected allergy.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
- NICE · 2023
- ACD · 2024
- AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.