Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Treatment in Singapore
MOH-Accredited Dermatologist | Oxford Fellowship Trained in Mohs Micrographic Surgery & Advanced Dermatologic Surgery
Consult Dr Tay Liang Kiat, a fully accredited dermatologist in Singapore with more than 25 years of clinical experience. He manages medical, surgical, and aesthetic dermatology conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, acne, urticaria, hair loss, children’s skin conditions, skin cancers, and other complex dermatological concerns.
Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions which can affect people of all ages
What is eczema?
How Common is Eczema in Singapore?
According to HealthHub Singapore, about 20% of school children in Singapore have eczema, while the National Skin Centre states that eczema affects about 1 in 10 people at some time in their life. If you have persistent dry, itchy, red, or inflamed skin, consult our dermatologist for proper assessment and treatment advice.
Treatment Options for eczema
Which Eczema Treatment Option Is Suitable For You?
| Treatment Option | When It May Be Considered | Treatment Details |
|---|---|---|
| Topical Steroid Creams | For eczema skin inflammation, depending on the extent and area of rashes. | Different potency steroid creams can be used to treat eczema skin inflammation. Your dermatologist can explain the proper use of creams and monitor for side effects. There are also non-steroid creams to treat skin inflammation, generally used for sensitive areas on the face and eyelids. |
| Treatment for Flare-Ups | If you have a bad eczema flare. | You may require intensive topical treatment such as wet wraps or a course of oral steroids. Oral medications may be required to treat any skin infections or infected eczema. |
| Treatment for Difficult-to-Control Eczema | If flare-ups are recurrent or eczema is difficult to control. | You may need to escalate treatment. Your dermatologist may prescribe medication to control the immune system, such as ciclosporin or azathioprine, or the biologic injection dupilumab. This will require close monitoring and regular blood tests may be required. Phototherapy may be another option. |
For eczema skin inflammation, depending on the extent and area of rashes.
Different potency steroid creams can be used to treat eczema skin inflammation. Your dermatologist can explain the proper use of creams and monitor for side effects. There are also non-steroid creams to treat skin inflammation, generally used for sensitive areas on the face and eyelids.
If you have a bad eczema flare.
You may require intensive topical treatment such as wet wraps or a course of oral steroids. Oral medications may be required to treat any skin infections or infected eczema.
If flare-ups are recurrent or eczema is difficult to control.
You may need to escalate treatment. Your dermatologist may prescribe medication to control the immune system, such as ciclosporin or azathioprine, or the biologic injection dupilumab. This will require close monitoring and regular blood tests may be required. Phototherapy may be another option.
Symptoms of eczema
Symptoms of eczema may vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms of eczema include:
- Dry skin
- Patches on the skin that appear darker than the surrounding area
- Inflamed red rashes
- Skin that is thickened or leathery and cracked
- Itchiness that may become more severe at night
- Hard bumps on the skin that may leak fluid and form crusts when scratched
- Raw and sensitive skin as a result of scratching
Eczema symptoms can start in infancy and continue through adulthood.
However, nearly half of children diagnosed with eczema will outgrow the condition or have their symptoms greatly improve by the time they reach puberty.
In other people it can start in the teenage years and disappear by young adulthood.
For many others, eczema can be a lifelong condition. There also be times when symptoms disappear (called the remission period) and other times when symptoms worsen (called flare-ups).
Types of eczema
Causes of eczema
- animal dander
- any infections eg. common colds, upper respiratory tract infection
- insect bites
- certain foods that may aggravate eczema in some patients
- chemicals found in cleaners and detergents that dry out the skin
- contact allergy eg. nickel, hair dye
- rough scratchy material, like wool
- stress
- sweating
- synthetic fabrics
- temperature changes, especially to heat
Allergy Testing for Eczema
Allergy tests may be required for certain types of eczema and to identify potential substances which your skin may be allergic to.
Managing eczema
Our Eczema Dermatologist
Dr Tay Liang Kiat
Dr Tay Liang Kiat is a fully accredited Dermatologist who specialises in skin cancers, Mohs micrographic surgery, dermatologic and nail surgery, aesthetic dermatology and laser procedures. With more than 25 years of clinical experience, he also manages other aspects of general ambulatory and inpatient dermatology, including eczema, psoriasis, acne, urticaria, hair loss, children skin issues and other complex medical dermatology. In addition, he has expertise in the use of the latest immunotherapy (biologics) treatment for severe eczema, psoriasis and urticaria.
Background
- UK (Oxford) Fellowship trained Dermatologist, specialising in Skin Cancer Screening and Treatment, Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Advanced Dermatologic Surgery
- UK-educated with more than 25 years clinical experience
- Accredited Dermatologist by Ministry of Health and Specialist Accreditation Board, Singapore
- Former Senior Dermatologist in private dermatology group practice
- Former Consultant Dermatologist and Head of Dermatology Surgery Services and Eczema Clinic at Changi General Hospital, Singapore
- Former Visiting Consultant Dermatologist at Military Medical Institute Specialist Centre, Singapore Armed Forces
Fellowship & Accreditation
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, University of Glasgow, UK
- Member of the Royal College of Physicians, UK
- Member of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, UK
- Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, UK
- Fellow of the Academy of Medicine (Dermatology), Singapore
- Fellowship in Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Advanced Dermatologic Surgery, University of Oxford, UK
Frequently Asked Questions About Eczema Treatment in Singapore
How is eczema diagnosed in Singapore?
Our dermatologist diagnoses eczema through a clinical consultation by assessing the patient’s skin symptoms, itch pattern, affected areas, and medical and family history of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis. In certain cases, our doctor may also check for other possible causes of the rash and conduct tests if the diagnosis is unclear.
How do I know if I have eczema or a fungal infection?
Eczema and fungal infections may look similar, as both can cause redness, itchiness, and skin irritation. However, eczema often comes and goes due to triggers such as heat, sweat, soaps, or allergens, and is commonly linked to dry, sensitive, and itchy skin. Meanwhile, a fungal infection may appear as a ring-shaped rash with a scaly border and may spread in moist areas, such as the feet or skin folds. Patients are advised to consult a doctor if they are unsure, as incorrect treatment may worsen the condition.
Can eczema be cured permanently?
There is no guaranteed permanent cure for eczema. However, many patients can manage the condition well with regular moisturising, suitable medication, trigger management, and follow-up care. Eczema may improve for periods of time and flare up again when triggered.
When should I see a doctor for eczema?
You should consult a dermatologist if you experience a persistent, spreading, or itchy rash that does not improve with moisturisers and basic care. You should also consult our doctor if you are unsure whether your rash is eczema or another skin condition.
How to treat eczema in babies in Singapore?
Baby eczema should be managed gently and under medical guidance. Common care steps may include using fragrance-free moisturisers regularly, avoiding harsh soaps and bubble baths, bathing with lukewarm water, and keeping the baby cool.
Book a Consultation & Protect Your Skin
Our team of experienced dermatologists and skin surgeons are here to help you identify, diagnose, and manage any suspicious skin changes with precision and care. Don’t ignore unusual spots or slow-healing lesions, book your appointment today for a thorough evaluation and peace of mind.
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What Triggers Eczema Flare-Ups on the Face, and How to Manage Them
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that can be difficult to manage. Various factors can trigger flare-ups, and when one affects your face, it could also lower your self-esteem. Proper management of facial eczema is therefore important, making it key to know your triggers and how to treat flare-ups effectively.
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Contact Information
Our Locations
- Suite #04-04 Parkway East Medical Centre 319 Joo Chiat Place Singapore 427989
- 1 Scotts Road #03-02 Shaw Centre Singapore 228208
Contact Numbers
- Whatsapp: +65 9159 2824
- Phone: +65 6539 9365
- Fax: +65 6539 9465
Email Address
- contact@stratumskin.com.sg
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Our Locations
- Suite #04-04 Parkway East Medical Centre 319 Joo Chiat Place Singapore 427989
- 1 Scotts Road #03-02 Shaw Centre Singapore 228208
Contact Numbers
- Whatsapp: +65 9159 2824
- Phone: +65 6539 9365
- Fax: +65 6539 9465
Email Address
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