Increasingly common, eczema is a chronic skin condition, which manifests itself in the outbreak of dry, itchy, cracked and reddened skin.
Atopic eczema, the most common form, is prone to allergy sufferers and children in the main, but anyone could be affected.
Whilst no magic cure exists, overcoming eczema is achievable.
The simplest, yet, at the same time, the hardest treatment to undergo is to stop scratching.
This is particularly the case with children.
However, mittens and other devices that will prevent the sufferer from being able to scratch are available.
Limiting the episodes of scratching will allow the skin to heal, and reduce instances of infection, which can worsen symptoms.
Other self-care treatments are also recommended.
Through diagnosis, triggering factors such as dust mites, food allergens and synthetic materials can be isolated.
Avoiding these will help reduce symptoms.
However, eradicating dust mites completely from the home is not practical, now thought to be conducive to the development of the body's natural immunity.
Eczema can also flare up through exposure to heat sources, and chemicals.
Try to keep certain areas of the home cool, and be aware of ingredients in soaps and detergents that cause inflammation of the condition.
For most cases, doctors and dermatologists will prescribe medication.
Common ones that prove effective are emollients, which help to sooth the irritation, and soften the skin.
Applied during and after washing, they can come as creams, ointments and lotions.
Antihistamines are also an effective treatment.
Working to prevent the body producing histamines - a natural defense to allergens - these can be taken when a flare-up occurs.
It is important to ensure that the appropriate medication is taken however, as some can cause drowsiness.
Overcoming eczema can usually be achieved by constant care and, certainly in the case of children, often naturally recedes through time.