Asteatotic eczema

Asteatotic eczema (also known as ‘eczema craquelé’) is a type of eczema that is more common in older people.

Symptoms

Asteatotic eczema usually affects the shins but sometimes affects other areas such as the thighs, arms, tummy and back. With this type of eczema the skin becomes very dry, rough and scaly, and sometimes resembles crazy paving or a dried-up riverbed.

Triggers

Overheating - If you live in dry, heated accommodation or are exposed to winter weather or excessive bathing or showering, you are more at risk of developing this type of eczema. Avoid sitting right next to a radiator or fire.
Hot water - Don’t spend too long in the bath – 10-15 minutes is ideal. It’s best to wash in warm rather than hot water, as hot water will dry out the skin and cause itchiness.  
Cleansing agents - Avoid soap and vigorous towelling. Use plenty of emollient, both as a leave-on moisturiser and as a soap substitute, to keep the skin moisturised. 
Dry air - Try to keep the air in the home moist. A bowl of water in each room should help.

View all triggers

Treatments

Emollients

Emollients are the main first-line treatment for eczema and are necessary to keep your skin moisturised. Emollients can be bought over the counter in pharmacies and some supermarkets, or supplied on prescription.

Topical steroids

Topical steroids are the most common treatment for inflammation in eczema. They should be used according to the instructions of your GP. 

All treatments

FAQ’s

You can reduce the risk by avoiding: Sitting next to radiators, long baths or showers, soap and vigorous towelling. Make sure to use plenty of emollient, both as a leave-on moisturiser and as a soap substitute, to keep the skin moisturised. We also recommend keeping the air in the home moist with a bowl of water in each room. 

Asteatotic eczema (also known as ‘eczema craquelé’) usually affects older adults. It causes very dry, rough, and scaly skin that often looks like cracked paving or a dried-up riverbed. 

The key symptoms of asteatotic eczema is dry, rough, and scaly skin that may crack and resemble paving. Flare ups are also common, especially in colder weather, after bathing or as a result of dry air. 

The first-line treatment of asteatotic eczema is emollients to keep the skin moisturised. Topical steroids are also prescribed by GPs to reduce inflammation.  

There are many different types of emollient creams available, from creams to ointments. Find out which would work best for you with our Emollients factsheet. 

Asteatotic eczema usually appears on the shins, but can also affect the thighs, arms, tummy and back.  

Related Downloads ⁽¹⁾

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Living with eczema (for adults) booklet

Supportive, practical information for adults managing eczema, based on the latest research and regularly reviewed by doctors and nurses. 