You are in the group that will use your usual steroid creams:

As you would normally do during a flare-up.

You should apply the cream in the same way you normally do and for the same number of days.

We are interested in understanding how you usually treat your eczema.

This does not affect your usual eczema care. You should not need to change anything else about the way you manage your eczema.  You can consult your GP, nurse, pharmacist or other healthcare professional as usual.

You will be asked to answer some questions every week for four months. These are very important for us to understand how you are getting on, and to help answer the important question about the best way to use steroid creams during a flare-up.

Frequently asked questions

What is a flare up?

A flare-up is where the skin is more itchy or sore than usual. In lighter coloured skin, an eczema flare-up may make the skin look red. In darker coloured skin, an eczema flare-up may make the skin look grey, purple or brown.

What steroid creams should I use?

You should use your usual steroid creams. Normally these will have been prescribed by your healthcare professional.

How should I apply steroid creams?

As a rough guide, put on a thin layer, enough to cover where there is active eczema.

What if my eczema isn’t getting better?

If your eczema isn’t getting any better or if you are worried about your eczema, you should discuss this with a healthcare professional.

What if I forget to use my steroid creams, do I need to leave the study?

No, it is very important you stay in the study and fill in your questionnaires. This is helpful even if you don’t manage to use your steroid creams. Just let us know what you did in your questionnaire answers. 

Can I still use moisturising creams (emollients)?

Yes. You can still use your moisturising creams (emollients) as often as you need to. 

Common concerns

I’m worried about my eczema

If you are worried about your eczema, please speak to a healthcare professional.

My doctor changed my steroid creams prescription, can I still take part?

Yes, you can still take part. Just let us know that your prescription changed when filling in the questionnaires.

What do I do if I’ve run out of steroid creams?

Steroid creams are usually prescribed by a healthcare professional at your GP surgery. If you have them on repeat prescription you may be able to request them through your practice or through the NHS app. 

It’s a good idea to keep a supply of steroid creams so that you have them ready for when you have a flare up. You can also request more steroid creams before you run out.

Version 1: updated 04/06/2025