Stressed to the skin

Plagued by dry, unbearably itchy skin? You’re not alone. Almost half of British adults have eczema, with seven in 10 blaming stress and anxiety for their flare-ups, a recent survey found*. Other triggers include airborne allergens like dust mites and pollen, toiletries, some fabrics, chlorine and even sunshine.

‘The best news for those with eczema is that there’s no need to suffer in silence,’ says GP Dr Nisa Aslam. ‘There are now a variety of prescribed skin treatment options, from ointments and creams to the development of new formats like fludroxycortide tape – a transparent medicated surgical tape that delivers steroids.’

Struggling with eczema can impact your mental health, so don’t delay discussing possible treatments with your GP.