Eczema — medically known as atopic dermatitis — affects approximately 1 in 5 children and 1 in 12 adults in the UK. Despite being so prevalent, it remains poorly understood by many of those living with it, leading to ineffective management and unnecessary suffering. With the right approach, the vast majority of eczema cases can be kept well-controlled, with flares becoming less frequent and less severe over time.
At Esthe Clinic, we stock the Bioderma Atoderm range specifically because it is one of the most clinically robust emollient ranges available — and we are asked about eczema management regularly. Here is everything you need to know.
What Is Eczema and What Causes It?
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by dry, itchy, inflamed skin that can appear anywhere on the body. It is driven by a combination of genetic factors — particularly mutations in the filaggrin gene that impair barrier function — and immune system dysregulation that leads to heightened inflammatory responses to environmental triggers.
The skin of someone with eczema has a compromised moisture barrier that allows water to escape more easily (transepidermal water loss) and allows irritants and allergens to penetrate more readily. This creates a cycle: dry skin becomes itchy, scratching damages the barrier further, the damaged barrier allows more irritants in, which triggers more inflammation and itching. Breaking this cycle requires consistent, daily emollient use — even when the skin looks and feels normal.
The Fundamental Rule: Emollient Every Day
The single most important thing anyone with eczema can do is apply an emollient every single day — not just during flares. Daily emollient use maintains the skin barrier, reduces the frequency and severity of flare-ups, and decreases the need for topical steroid treatments. Yet it remains the most consistently under-used intervention in eczema management.
For eczema-prone skin, the general principle is the thicker the better. Ointments and very rich creams provide more effective barrier protection than lotions or gel-based products, though for daytime use many people prefer lighter formulas for comfort and practicality. The Bioderma Atoderm range covers every texture from the rich 500ml cream for daily body application through to the ultra-soothing intensive balm for severely dry patches.
The Bioderma Atoderm Range at Esthe Clinic
Bioderma Atoderm Cream 500ml
The daily workhorse of eczema management. This ultra-rich restructuring cream consolidates the skin barrier with a biological complex of fatty acids, niacinamide and vitamin E. Suitable for the whole body, including babies and children, and available in the 500ml pump format that makes generous daily application practical. Apply immediately after bathing while skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture most effectively.
Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Ultra-Soothing Balm 200ml
For severely dry patches and areas of intense irritation. The Intensive Balm has a richer, more occlusive texture than the standard cream — ideal for elbows, knees, hands and any area of the body that is particularly dry or compromised. Suitable for very dry to eczema-prone skin including babies from birth.
Bioderma Atoderm Ultra-Soothing Emollient Cream 500ml
Specifically formulated for very dry to eczema-prone skin with a formula that focuses on immediate itch relief alongside long-term barrier repair. The emollient film it creates reduces transepidermal water loss and provides continuous soothing action between applications.
Bioderma Atoderm SOS Anti-Itching Spray 200ml
One of the most useful products in the Atoderm range for acute flares. The SOS spray immediately soothes the urge to scratch — the spray format means it can be applied quickly to affected areas without friction, and its ultra-light texture is absorbed immediately. Particularly useful for areas of active itching where applying a cream would cause further irritation through rubbing.
Bioderma Atoderm Cleansing Oil 1L
Conventional soaps and shower gels are a major eczema trigger — they strip the skin barrier and leave skin drier and more reactive after washing. The Atoderm Cleansing Oil is a soap-free, fragrance-free shower oil that cleanses the body while simultaneously nourishing and protecting the skin barrier. The 1L format makes daily use practical and cost-effective.
Bioderma Atoderm Body Wash 1L
For those who prefer a more traditional shower gel format, the Atoderm Body Wash provides the same gentle, non-stripping cleansing in a foaming gel texture. Fragrance-free and clinically tested for skin tolerance.
Managing Eczema Flare-Ups
During a flare, the priority is to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin without causing further irritation. Increase emollient application frequency — applying two to three times daily rather than once. Use the Atoderm SOS Spray on actively itching areas. Avoid hot baths and showers — lukewarm water is much less drying and less likely to trigger itching. Pat skin dry gently rather than rubbing.
If flares are severe or frequent, topical corticosteroids prescribed by your GP or dermatologist are the appropriate first-line medical treatment. Emollients should always be used alongside prescription treatments — they are complementary, not alternative. Apply emollient first and allow it to absorb for at least 30 minutes before applying any topical steroid.
Eczema Triggers to Avoid
Common eczema triggers include fragranced skincare and household products, biological washing detergents, certain fabrics (especially wool and synthetic fibres), dust mites, pet dander, stress, sweating, extreme temperatures and certain foods. Identifying your personal triggers through a symptom diary can significantly reduce flare frequency.
Browse our full eczema and dry skin range at Esthe Clinic. For personalised skincare advice, book a consultation with our team.