Book your Flu and/or Covid-19 vaccines now - use your online booking link in your text or email invitation.
Invitations are currently being sent out to our eligible patient groups. Use the online booking link in your text or email invite. Remember to use the dropdown menu to change the site and choose a date and time.
Get help from your GP by completing your health form
About Us

Infected Eczema: When to Seek Help

Key Information:

  • Why Watch: It is important to tell the difference between a standard eczema flare-up and an infection. This video explains how to spot the “golden crusts” and other warning signs that mean you need urgent medical attention.
  • The Mechanism: Eczema causes a “leaky” skin barrier. Sometimes, bacteria can get through this barrier and cause an infection. When this happens, a standard flare-up changes its character and needs a different approach.

Spotting the Signs

A standard flare-up is red, dry, and itchy (inflammation). An infection looks and feels different. 

Look out for these key signs:

  • Weeping fluid
  • Golden-yellow crusts
  • Pus spots
  • Feeling unwell

What Happens Next?

If you notice weeping fluid, yellow crusts, pus spots, or feel unwell, please contact us. Infected eczema usually needs antibiotics to clear the bacteria. While steroid creams are excellent for inflammation, they cannot clear a bacterial infection on their own.

Discuss Your Symptoms

 

 

Further Information

Managing Eczema: The Brick Wall & Emollients

Treating Eczema Flare-Ups: Using Steroid Creams Safely

For more information about how eczema presents, how to manage it and treatment, please visit the NHS website.

Learn more about eczema

 

 

Last reviewed: 26 December 2025
Next review due: 26 December 2028