Infected Eczema Action Plan

Printable one page action plan on infected eczema (PDF, 423KB). 

Signs of infected eczema 

• weeping crusted areas
• lots of pustules (yellow/white pimples)
• sudden flaring of eczema all over the body
• shivering, painful skin
• painful chicken pox-like blisters and sores – this can be the cold sore virus – see your doctor urgently

Care of infected eczema

Antibiotic medicine/tablets

• take the antibiotic every day until it is finished

Bath or shower

• bath or shower every day to clean the skin
• use warm water and a soft cloth to gently soak and lift off any crusts
• use a soap-free wash such as non-ionic cream, aqueous cream, emulsifying ointment - don't use soap and bubble bath as these make the skin dry
• antiseptic baths 2 times a week can help - see antiseptic or bleach bath instructions

Steroid creams and ointments

• apply steroid to all red and itchy skin (active eczema) once a day. Immediately after the bath is best
• use enough to make the skin shiny

Steroid for the face/neck: ________________________________________

• when the skin is no longer red and itchy stop using the steroid but keep moisturising - if eczema comes back start using the steroid again

Moisturiser (emollient)

• smooth on lots of moisturiser many times a day to keep the skin soft - apply all over, not just where there is eczema
• aim to finish a 500g tub every 2–3 weeks

When to go back to your doctor/nurse

• if the infection is not improving after 2–3 days of treatment
• if other people in the house have skin infections – they also need to get treatment
• if your child is missing school, getting lots of skin infections or not sleeping well because of eczema