Eczema and dermatitis
treatment in Brisbane
Understanding eczema and dermatitis
Dermatitis is an umbrella term for inflamed skin. “Eczema” often refers to atopic dermatitis, but there are other common patterns that behave differently, such as irritant dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and hand eczema.
Eczema is also a skin barrier problem. When the barrier is disrupted, the skin loses moisture, becomes more reactive, and inflammation is easier to trigger. That’s why the routine matters. The best results come from combining the right anti-inflammatory treatment with barrier repair and trigger control.
Common patterns we manage include atopic dermatitis, hand eczema, and contact dermatitis (allergic or irritant).
Dr Mitch’s Take
The goal with eczema is control, not cure. Most people aren’t looking for “perfect skin”, they want less itch, fewer flares, better sleep, and skin that isn’t constantly irritated.
My approach is to avoid systemic medication if we can. I start with the basics done properly: barrier repair, trigger reduction, and a topical plan that’s effective but sustainable. If we can reduce reliance on topical steroids safely, we will.
If topical therapy isn’t enough, I often move to narrowband UVB phototherapy as a more natural, non-systemic option. It can be an excellent steroid-sparing step for more widespread or stubborn eczema.
If the eczema is severe, persistent, or affecting quality of life despite all of the above, then we escalate. That’s when we talk about systemic options, including biologic therapies where appropriate. The goal is steady control with the lowest treatment burden that actually works.
We provide dermatologist-led eczema and dermatitis care for patients across Brisbane and South East Queensland.
What the journey looks like at
Derm Skin Specialists
01
Initial assessment
We confirm the diagnosis and pattern (and rule out look-alikes). We take a proper history: where it is, how long it’s been going on, what worsens it, what you’ve tried, and what has (and hasn’t) helped. We check for signs of infection and possible contact triggers. Baseline clinical photos may be taken where useful to track response.
02
Control Phase
We aim to settle the flare and reduce itch, then step down to a maintainable plan. You’ll receive clear instructions on what to use during flares and what to use between flares, so you’re not left guessing.
03
Maintenance & ongoing review
Once controlled, the focus is on preventing relapse: barrier care, trigger reduction, and the lowest treatment intensity that keeps you stable. Because eczema changes with season, stress, illness, work exposures, and life, we review and adjust your plan to keep you controlled — rather than cycling through repeated “rescue” courses.
Eczema Treatment Options
Barrier repair and skin care
We simplify the routine and rebuild the barrier. This usually includes changing wash habits, using the right moisturiser consistently, and removing irritant or unnecessary actives.
Topical anti-inflammatory treatment
We use topical anti-inflammatory therapy appropriate to the site and severity. The aim is effective control with safe use and a clear step-down strategy. Where possible, we reduce reliance on topical steroids over time.
Hand eczema and contact dermatitis
Hand eczema is often driven by repeated wet work, irritants, and sometimes allergic triggers. If contact dermatitis is suspected (allergic or irritant), we focus on exposures and habits. In selected patients, patch testing pathways may be recommended.
Infection management
Eczema can become infected, especially when scratched. We treat infection when present and focus on prevention to reduce flare frequency and antibiotic need.
Narrowband UVB phototherapy (nbUVB)
Narrowband UVB phototherapy (nbUVB) is a well-established, steroid-sparing option for selected patients. It requires a schedule commitment and works best with consistency.
Systemic options (when needed)
If eczema remains severe or continues to impact quality of life despite appropriate topical care and phototherapy, systemic therapy may be considered, including biologic medications where appropriate.
Not sure where to start?
Book a dermatology consultation so we can confirm the diagnosis and build a plan that fits your severity and lifestyle.
If you’ve already been diagnosed and you’re mainly exploring UVB phototherapy, we can discuss whether narrowband UVB (nbUVB) is appropriate and how it would be scheduled. You can also read our Narrowband UVB (nbUVB) page for what to expect.
What results to expect
Most patients can achieve much better control than they’ve been living with. The main measures are itch, sleep, frequency of flares, and how often you need rescue treatment.
Some eczema doesn’t disappear completely, but stable control is a realistic goal. The earlier you treat properly, the less entrenched the cycle becomes.
Medical Disclaimer
Before-and-after images are for general information only. Results vary between individuals and are not guaranteed. Images show outcomes for one patient only and may not reflect typical results. Any procedure or treatment should be considered only after a clinical assessment by a qualified health practitioner.