Sedating antihistamine eczema

Many people find it helpful to keep separate supplies of emollients at work or school, or a tub in the bathroom and one in a living area.

However, you shouldn't make significant changes to your diet without first speaking to your GP.

During a flare-up, apply generous amounts of emollient more frequently, but remember to treat inflamed skin with a topical corticosteroid as emollients used on their own aren't enough to control it.

Don't put your fingers into an emollient pot – use a spoon or pump dispenser instead, as this reduces the risk of infection. If your skin is sore and inflamed, your GP may prescribe a topical corticosteroid (applied directly to your skin), which can reduce the inflammation within a few days.

Don't be afraid to apply the treatment to affected areas to control your eczema.

Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, follow the directions on the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication. Most people only have to apply it once a day as there's no evidence there is any benefit to applying it more often.