Our Research Initiatives

The ALPHA trial has now concluded. It was an exciting study that compared two powerful treatments, Alitretinoin and PUVA therapy, for adults with severe hand eczema that doesn’t respond well to prescription steroid creams. 

The Results Are In 

The study found that Alitretinoin provides a convenient, instant relief or ‘quick fix’ for patients with severe hand eczema. Alitretinoin is also, often, more convenient for lots of people to take. However, it is important to have other options available for people who would prefer not to, or are unable to, take alitretinoin. For example, people who experience unwanted side effects, and/or people who are able to become pregnant, must use contraception whilst taking alitretinoin. 

The study acknowledged that long-term control of severe hand eczema is important. Individual discussions surrounding both the pros and cons of each treatment for hand eczema symptoms are needed as are providing more flexible options to attend ultraviolet therapy appointments. You can read the full NIHR report here. 

Read a general news summary of the results here. 

The UK-Irish Atopic Eczema Systemic Therapy Register (A-STAR) study is undertaking ground-breaking research to uncover how effective systemic medications are in treating atopic eczema. A-STAR will explore not only how these treatments improve disease severity and enhance quality of life but also their safety during long-term use. Recruitment for this study is open. Join us on this important journey to better understand eczema treatments and help pave the way for more effective solutions! 

A-Star is actively recruiting patients. More information here. 

Recruitment is now closed. This research study at St. George’s Hospital in south London explored if the frequency you bathe your baby in the first 6 months of life impacts whether your baby gets eczema or not when either a parent and/or other sibling/s have eczema as well. 

BIOMAP is an exciting international research initiative that harnesses the latest advancements in translational medicine. This exciting endeavour aims to accelerate drug discovery and enhance disease management for individuals living with atopic eczema and psoriasis. 

Introducing the Eczema Care Online (ECO) research study - a game-changer in eczema self-care! This innovative study was dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to take charge of their eczema treatment. By enhancing understanding of various eczema therapies, ECO aims to transform attitudes, skills, and habits surrounding treatment use. Get ready to embark on a journey toward better skin health and improved quality of life as we work together to promote effective self-care strategies for eczema! 

Exciting research from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine! A ground-breaking study led by Prof. Sinead Langan has uncovered a surprising link between eczema and bone fractures. This major research finding could change the way we understand and manage eczema, shedding light on potential health risks associated with this common skin condition. 

Get ready for some exciting insights from Consultant Dermatologist Susannah George and patient representative Anjna Rani. They’re diving into the Cochrane research review on treatments aimed at reducing infections from the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus in individuals with eczema. Together, they’ll explore the evidence behind what really works to treat infected eczema, giving you valuable information that could make a difference in your care. Don’t miss out on these essential findings that could help you or your loved ones manage eczema more effectively. 

Kids in Control is a ground-breaking research study that is currently recruiting children and young people (aged 8-12 years) with eczema. Kids in Control is aimed at empowering and increasing young people’s understanding of the condition, raising awareness of their scratching behaviour and supporting a change in their behaviour to help reduce itchy skin. Get in touch to take part. 

Does your child have ecz.zip – 6Download 

Discover the ground-breaking Mind and Skin study! We’re diving deep into the fascinating connection between skin inflammation, itchiness, and sleep disturbances in patients with eczema (atopic dermatitis). Join us as we explore how these factors influence brain health and overall well-being. 

Mind Skin Poster (2024)Download 

The Rapid Eczema Trials project is designed to empower individuals with eczema to take control of their care! This innovative initiative puts people with eczema and their caregivers in the driver’s seat, addressing common questions about managing the condition, like how often to wash, what to eat, and the best ways to use treatments. With this project, we aim to fill the gaps in research and provide the guidance needed to make informed decisions for healthier skin. 

National Eczema Society was thrilled to be part of an exciting international charity initiative that aimed to redefine what ‘good eczema care’ truly means from the perspective of patients and caregivers! The Global Patient Initiative for Optimal Eczema Care is a mission to create meaningful measures for healthcare services and treatment satisfaction, ensuring the voices of those living with eczema are heard. Download and read the results from this work. We will continue to work to shape policy recommendations that prioritise the experiences and needs of eczema patients, paving the way for better care worldwide. 

The National Eczema Society was thrilled to fund this exciting research study that explored the impact of sleep disturbances on children with eczema and their families! This ground breaking study aims to uncover new insights that will help improve sleep for children and young people dealing with eczema. By shedding light on this important issue, we hope to enhance support strategies and pave the way for future research in this vital area. Together, let’s ensure that every child with eczema gets the restful sleep they deserve. 

The National Eczema Society was thrilled to fund this exciting research study that explored the impact of sleep disturbances on children with eczema and their families! This ground-breaking study aims to uncover new insights that will help improve sleep for children and young people dealing with eczema. By shedding light on this important issue, we hope to enhance support strategies and pave the way for future research in this vital area. Together, let’s ensure that every child with eczema gets the restful sleep they deserve. 

The Teleconsultations for Eczema in Children (TECH) study has finished collecting data. This exciting research explored how effective and acceptable teleconsultations are for the follow-up care of children and young people with eczema. By gathering insights and experiences from both patients and parents, this study aimed to shed light on the benefits of virtual care and help shape future research in this important area. We hope to share soon how teleconsultations can enhance eczema management and make life easier for families! 

Exciting news for parents! This ground-breaking study is on a mission to reduce the risk of peanut allergies in babies and children caused by skin contact. Researchers are diving deep to uncover the mechanisms behind this risk and explore how we can adapt skincare practices to keep children safe. Plus, they’re investigating how peanut snacks are manufactured to minimize the exposure to peanut protein in the environment. Together, we’re working towards a future where peanut allergies can be prevented, giving families peace of mind! 

The TRANS-FOODS research team is recruiting adult volunteers to take part in this study. More Information here. 

The TLA4AE Study is currently looking for children (age 4-16 years old) who have moderate to severe eczema despite treatment who are also allergic to house dust mites. Check out the requirements here. 

TLA4AE Poster for participants V2.1 07.01.2023 – finalDownload