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Conditions
Eczema(AtopicDermatitis)
A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, inflamed skin. Often runs in families and can flare with triggers.
Get assessed
From $24.95 · No appointment needed
6 min
avg cert turnaround
13 min
avg doctor review
2
days a week
30%
refund if declined
Symptoms
CommonsymptomsofEczema(AtopicDermatitis)
An AHPRA-registered doctor assesses these symptoms online - no in-person visit required.
Dry, itchy skin
Red or brown patches
Thickened, cracked skin
Small raised bumps
Raw, sensitive skin from scratching
Flare-ups that come and go
Our Scope
Howwecanhelp
InstantMed handles many common conditions entirely online. Here's what fits our service.
What we can help with
- Treatment for eczema flares (topical steroids, etc.)
- Medical certificates when eczema affects work
- Advice on moisturisers and triggers
- Referral to dermatologist if needed
What needs in-person care
- Patch testing for allergens
- Biologic treatments (require specialist)
Depending on your situation, an AHPRA-registered doctor may be able to issue a medical certificate or arrange a repeat prescription after reviewing your request online.
Clinical Guidance
Whentoseeadoctor
These indicators suggest you should seek professional medical advice promptly.
Signs you need a doctor
- 1Eczema not controlled by moisturisers
- 2Signs of infection (oozing, crusting, fever)
- 3Severe itching affecting sleep or work
- 4You need a medical certificate
Seek emergency care if
- Widespread infected eczema
- Eczema with high fever
- Severe allergic reaction to treatment
Call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department
Clinical Insight
Adoctor'sperspectiveonEczema(AtopicDermatitis)
InstantMed Clinical Team
AHPRA-registered medical team · Reviewed 2026-03
Eczema is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management rather than a one-off cure. The foundation of eczema management is moisturising - and most people do not moisturise enough or use the right products. Thick, fragrance-free ointments (like emulsifying ointment or sorbolene) applied liberally and frequently (at least twice daily, more during flares) are far more effective than light lotions. Topical corticosteroids get an unfairly bad reputation - when used correctly, they are safe and highly effective for managing flares. The common fear of 'steroid damage' leads many patients to under-treat, resulting in prolonged flares and more discomfort than if the steroid had been used properly from the outset. A telehealth assessment is well-suited for eczema management because photos of the affected skin, combined with your history, allow us to assess severity and adjust treatment.
Treatment
TreatingEczema(AtopicDermatitis)
Eczema management follows a stepwise approach: emollients (moisturisers) are the foundation, topical corticosteroids control flares, and calcineurin inhibitors are used for sensitive areas or steroid-sparing. The 'fear of steroids' leads to significant under-treatment in Australia -- when used correctly, topical steroids are safe and effective.
Betamethasone valerate
Eleuphrat, Betnovate
Class:Topical corticosteroid (potent)
Typical dose:Apply thinly to affected areas once or twice daily for up to 2 weeks
PBS:PBS listed for eczema and dermatitis
- Potent steroid suitable for moderate-severe eczema on the body
- Not for use on face, groin, or axillae (use mild steroid or calcineurin inhibitor instead)
- Use the 'fingertip unit' method to gauge correct amount
- Step down to a milder steroid once flare is controlled
Hydrocortisone
Sigmacort, DermAid
Class:Topical corticosteroid (mild)
Typical dose:Apply thinly to affected areas once or twice daily
- Mild steroid safe for face, eyelids, and skin folds
- Available over-the-counter (1% strength)
- First-line topical steroid for children and sensitive areas
- Can be used for longer periods than potent steroids
Tacrolimus
Protopic
Class:Topical calcineurin inhibitor
Typical dose:0.1% ointment (adults) applied twice daily to affected areas
PBS:PBS authority required for moderate-severe eczema unresponsive to topical steroids
- Steroid-free option for facial eczema and sensitive areas
- No risk of skin thinning (unlike long-term topical steroids)
- May cause initial stinging/burning for first few days (settles with continued use)
- Can be used for proactive maintenance therapy (twice weekly) to prevent flares
Source: Therapeutic Guidelines - Dermatology, 2024. This information is educational only and does not replace clinical assessment.
Specialist referral: Referral to a dermatologist is recommended if eczema is not controlled with potent topical steroids, if secondary infection is recurrent, if eczema is significantly affecting quality of life or sleep, or for consideration of systemic immunomodulatory therapy.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) in Australia
Eczema affects approximately 1 in 3 Australian children and 1 in 10 adults
Australia has one of the highest rates of eczema in the world
Eczema is strongly associated with other atopic conditions - 50-80% of children with eczema develop asthma or hay fever
The annual cost of eczema management in Australia exceeds $1.2 billion
Recovery
Whattoexpect
Typical recovery timeline and return-to-work guidance for most patients.
Typical recovery
Mild flares may settle within a few days with proper moisturising and topical steroids. Moderate flares typically take 1-2 weeks of consistent treatment. Eczema is chronic and recurring - the goal is management, not cure.
Return to work
Most people can work with eczema. Severe flares - especially on the hands or face - may warrant a day or two for intensive treatment. If your work involves frequent hand washing, chemicals, or irritants, discuss protective strategies and workplace modifications with your doctor.
When to reassess
See a doctor if eczema is spreading or not responding to your usual treatment, if the skin becomes weepy, crusted, or painful (possible infection), if eczema is significantly affecting your sleep or mental health, or if you are using topical steroids for more than 2 weeks without improvement.
Self-Care
ManagingEczema(AtopicDermatitis)athome
Evidence-based tips to support your recovery alongside medical treatment.
Moisturise at least twice daily with a thick, fragrance-free ointment or cream - apply within 3 minutes of bathing
Take short (5-10 minute), lukewarm showers - hot water and long showers strip the skin barrier
Use soap-free wash (like QV wash or Cetaphil) - regular soap is too harsh for eczema-prone skin
Wash clothes with fragrance-free detergent and avoid fabric softener
Keep nails short and consider cotton gloves at night if you scratch during sleep
Identify and avoid your personal triggers - common ones include stress, heat, sweat, wool, dust mites, and certain foods
FAQ
CommonquestionsaboutEczema(AtopicDermatitis)
Answers to the most common questions from patients.
Yes. For flares, our doctors can prescribe topical treatments. For severe or complex eczema, a dermatologist may be needed.
Common triggers include dry air, irritants (soaps, detergents), stress, allergens, and certain fabrics. Keeping skin moisturised helps.
No. Eczema is not contagious. However, scratched skin can become infected, and infections can spread.
Yes, if severe eczema is affecting your ability to work (e.g. hands affected, sleep deprivation, infection).
Ready to get help with Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)?
Australian-registered doctors review your request when available.
Full refund if the doctor declines.