Key Information:

Regaining Control: When your eczema flares up (becoming red, inflamed, and intensely itchy) moisturisers alone may not be enough. You need a specific tool to calm the inflammation, steroid creams or ointments.

Safety Assurance: Many people worry about using steroids. However, when used correctly for short periods to control a flare-up, they are safe and are the most effective treatment available.

The Goal: To calm the inflammation so you can return to your normal routine of using just your moisturiser (emollient).

The "Fingertip Unit": Getting the Dosage Right

The key to safety is applying the right amount. We measure this using the Fingertip Unit (FTU).

• The Measurement: One FTU is the amount of cream squeezed from the tube onto the tip of your index finger (from the very tip down to the first crease).
• The Coverage: This single unit is the perfect amount to treat an area of skin that is twice the size of your palm.

Using this guide ensures you are always using the correct, safe amount. Neither too little nor too much.

How to Apply:

• Target the Inflammation: Apply the cream only to the red, inflamed, and itchy areas. Do not put it on healthy skin.
• Thin Layer: Smooth a thin layer gently into the skin, just enough to make it glisten. (Usually once a day).
• The 30-Minute Gap: Continue using your regular emollient all over your body. But, wait about 30 minutes after applying the steroid before you put on your emollient. This allows the steroid to be fully absorbed first.
• Know When to Stop: Use the cream every day until the inflammation has completely gone. Once the skin is no longer red or itchy, and feels smooth, stop the steroid and return to using only your emollient.

When to Seek Help

If a flare-up is not improving after one week, or if the skin starts to weep or crust over (signs of infection), please let us know immediately.

Discuss Your Symptoms

Further Information

Managing Eczema

Infected Eczema: When To Seek Help

For more information on how to use steroid creams safely and effectively, please visit the NHS website.

Learn more about steroid creams

Last reviewed: 12 April 2026
Next review due: 12 April 2029