At Kent Skin & Laser Clinic, our consultant dermatologist-led team assesses and treats all common types of eczema. Based in Canterbury, we welcome patients from across Kent, including Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover, Deal and the surrounding areas.
What is Eczema?
Eczema, also called dermatitis, is a group of conditions that make the skin dry, red, itchy and sore. Symptoms often include:
- Dry, scaly or cracked skin
- Intense itching, which can disturb sleep
- Red or darker patches, depending on skin tone
- Weeping, crusting or thickened skin during flare-ups
There are several types, and the right treatment depends on which one you have:
- Atopic eczema: the most common type, often starting in childhood and linked to a sensitive skin barrier and a personal or family history of asthma or hay fever.
- Contact dermatitis: caused by skin touching an irritant or allergen, such as soaps, metals, fragrances or latex.
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis: red, flaky skin affecting oily areas such as the scalp, face and chest.
- Discoid eczema: coin-shaped, itchy patches, most often on the limbs.
Common triggers include irritants, allergens, dry skin, stress, sweating, temperature changes and some fabrics. Eczema can look similar to psoriasis, fungal infections and other rashes, so an accurate diagnosis matters before treatment starts.
How We Treat Eczema
Eczema is long-term and managed rather than cured. Your plan is decided by your doctor after assessment, and may combine several of the following.
Emollients and Skin Barrier Care
Regular use of emollients, moisturisers designed to restore the skin barrier, is the foundation of eczema care. Our team will explain which suits your skin.
Prescribed Topical Treatment
During flare-ups, your doctor may prescribe topical treatments to calm inflammation and itching. What is suitable, how much to use and for how long is decided individually, and we will explain it clearly.
Patch Testing for Contact Allergy
If contact dermatitis is suspected, patch testing can help identify substances your skin reacts to, so you can avoid them.
Skincare Routine Support
Gentle cleansing, trigger avoidance and a consistent routine all help. If appropriate, our Prescriptive Strength Skin Care service can support your day-to-day skincare.
If your rash does not look like eczema, our consultant dermatologist will assess the rash to confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes a rash may need to be further investigated by skin tests or biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Why Choose Kent Skin & Laser Clinic?
Patients choose us because we offer:
- Consultant dermatologist-led assessment
- Accurate diagnosis, including look-alike rashes
- Patch testing on site where contact allergy is suspected
- CQC-regulated care, with all major private medical insurers accepted
Based in Canterbury, we welcome patients from across Kent.
What Happens at the Appointment?
Your appointment is arranged through our Dermatology Consultation. Our team will:
- Ask about your symptoms, history and anything you have already tried
- Examine your skin closely
- Explain the diagnosis and your options
- Advise whether patch testing would help
You leave with a clear plan covering emollients, any prescribed treatment and your skincare routine. The consultation is £300 with our Consultant Dermatologist and Medical Director. We may suggest a follow-up to review how your skin is responding.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Eczema that is infected needs prompt medical attention. Please seek urgent medical advice, or emergency help if it is severe, if you have:
- Weeping, crusted or very painful skin, or yellow crusts or pus
- A fever or you feel generally unwell
- Rapidly spreading or widespread eczema
- Clusters of painful blisters
Frequently Asked Questions
Can eczema be cured?
No, eczema cannot be cured, but it can be managed. With the right emollients, prescribed treatment and trigger avoidance, many people keep flare-ups under control. Individual results vary.
What is the difference between eczema and psoriasis?
They can look alike, but they are different conditions. Psoriasis tends to cause thicker, scaly plaques, while eczema is typically itchier with dry, inflamed skin. A dermatology assessment confirms which you have.
Do I need a patch test?
Not everyone does. A patch test helps when contact allergy is suspected, for example if a rash appears after touching certain products or materials.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, you can book directly as a self-funded patient. Some private medical insurers require a GP referral, so please check with your insurer first. All major private medical insurers are accepted.
Will I need to use creams every day?
Emollients are usually used daily, even when your skin looks clear. Prescribed topical treatments are used as directed by your doctor, usually during flare-ups.
Book this treatment
Price
Dermatology consultation £300 with the Consultant Dermatologist
Appointment
15 to 30 minutes, depending on consultation type
Downtime
None
Fees vary by clinician and are confirmed at your consultation.
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