Atopic Eczema — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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EasyInflammatory DermatosesAtopic EczemaSCE Dermatology

A 42-year-old woman with moderate atopic eczema asks about bathing frequency and technique. According to NICE guidelines, what is the recommended bathing advice?

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Correct answer: B — Bath daily using a soap substitute instead of soap; apply emollient immediately after bathing while skin is still damp

NICE CG57 recommends daily bathing as part of atopic eczema management, using soap substitutes (not conventional soap/shower gel which contains detergents that damage the skin barrier). Bathing should be in lukewarm (not hot) water for 10-15 minutes. Emollient should be applied within 3 minutes of bathing while the skin is still slightly damp to trap moisture (the 'soak and seal' technique). Bath emollients/oils may be added to the bath water. This regimen restores and maintains the skin barrier, reduces transepidermal water loss, and improves eczema control. Overwashing with soap is a common exacerbating factor that patients should be educated to avoid.

Reference: NICE CG57 2007 (updated 2023); BAD