Do you cover up your eczema?
How does living with eczema affect those who have it? According to research almost half of people who are affected are being held back due to their condition.
A third admit to going to extreme lengths to hide the effects, examples given included wearing a polo neck and jeans or gloves in summer and trips to the beach fully dressed.
Research conducted by Lloydspharmacy to launch its new Skin Service shows the extent to which the condition is impacting on the lives of six million UK people with eczema. Nearly a fifth of those questioned said they had avoided being intimate with their partner because they are so self-conscious about how their eczema looks.
Their daily routine can also be affected with 18% saying they’d taken time off work or their studies, and 17% had cancelled plans with friends or parties because of their condition.
Louise Baglole, a Lloydspharmacy’s pharmacist, said; “Although generally considered to be a childhood condition, eczema affects over four million UK adults and the symptoms can be severe, interrupting sleep and causing painful flare ups.
“In pharmacy we talk to people with eczema on a daily basis and know their frustrations. Many have tried various creams and treatments but felt they haven’t worked. However, a change in treatment and application techniques can make all the difference, which is why we have developed our skin advice service. With effective management, symptoms can be reduced and those with the condition can start to take back control of their life.”
The physical symptoms mean that for many, eczema is a daily struggle. One fifth said they scratch at least 10 times a day and almost half think about it on a daily basis. Everyday activities can also prompt a reminder of the condition including bathing / showering, dressing and even as soon as they wake up.
The research also found over a third of those with eczema believe they would have more confidence if they could better control the symptoms. Over a quarter would go on beach holidays, a fifth would feel more confident meeting new people and 16% would be more comfortable being intimate with their partner.
The National Eczema Society recommends all people with eczema use medical moisturisers, known as emollients, and that they should be used regularly on a daily basis. However, the research found only half of eczema sufferers used emollients and just 11% were applying them more than twice a day, topical steroid creams were also popular.
Margaret Cox, Chief Executive of the National Eczema Society, said: “Eczema can impact on every element of your life both physically and psychologically. People with this often very distressing condition can struggle to find an effective solution. It’s important for those with eczema to know that they are not alone and that there are lots of options to help them manage their condition. For example, we know that 90% of people who use emollients aren’t applying them enough, and, if used properly and regularly, at least three times a day, could mean much better control.”