Eczema is a skin condition that can affect any age group. Up to one in five UK schoolchildren will develop eczema before the age of seven, and one in twelve adults have eczema. The severity of the eczema can vary. In mild forms the skin is dry, hot and itchy; with more severe eczema the skin can become broken, raw and infected.
There are many causes of eczema. Some people inherit a tendency to develop eczema (atopic eczema, which is often linked to hay fever and asthma), while some people develop it as a reaction or sensitivity to a particular substance (e.g. nickel).
People with eczema often choose a non-bio detergent as these are designed to be kinder to sensitive skin.
Eczema can look unpleasant but it isn't contagious. Anyone with eczema in their family should consult their doctor. The UK's National Eczema Society is a good source of information, advice and support www.eczema.org.
