The skin condition, eczema, is now 30% more frequent than it was in the 1980s - affecting one in five children under the age of seven and one in 12 adults in Ireland.

Eczema is a group of skin complaints that can affect all age groups and can occur anywhere on the body. Symptoms can include an itchy, scaly red rash. For most people affected, it begins in the first year of life.

According to the Irish Eczema Society (IES), which this week is running Eczema Awareness Week, the condition can be ‘very distressing' for those affected.

"It causes considerable emotional distress as well as discomfort. It is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed and we need to raise awareness in Ireland about the treatment and effects of eczema," explained IES chairperson, Jeannette Brazel.

She pointed out that while there is no outright cure for eczema, in 65% of children, the condition disappears by the age of seven. For those with continuing eczema, it can be well controlled with proper diagnosis and treatment.

"We want to encourage everyone and especially parents and teachers to take time to educate themselves about eczema and understand the emotional distress it causes to sufferers," Ms Brazel said.

She emphasised that it is ‘vital' that children receive early treatment to control eczema and encourages any parents of children with rashes and irritated skin conditions to seek help from their GP, practice nurse or pharmacist.

Removing irritants and moisturising the child's skin adequately is the basic cornerstone of treatment.

As part of Eczema Awareness Week, which runs until September 25, the IES is holding an open day at the Brookfield Health Sciences Building in University College Cork from midday until 5pm on September 25.

This event will include a talk from consultant dermatologist, Dr Michelle Murphy. A specialist dermatology nurse will also be present for the day to show how to apply creams correctly and there will be information stands and samples of eczema specific products. Admission is free.

For more information on Eczema Awareness Week and the condition in general, contact the IES on (01) 832 1250.

See also our Eczema Clinic here