Eczema

Medical cannabis can help provide relief for eczema by reducing inflammation, soothing itching, and supporting skin healing.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition causing itchy and dry skin. It tends to appear in patches, affecting areas like the elbows, knees and hands. It’s common in young children, but can persist into adulthood, and the cause is unknown. In the UK, eczema is thought to affect 5-10% of adults.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the flare-up severity, but typically include dry, unbearably itchy skin. Sometimes skin becomes red, cracked and very painful, resulting in sleep issues and mental health problems.

Treatments

Eczema usually improves with age, but some day-to-day changes can help manage symptoms, such as avoiding irritations like soaps, certain fabrics or pets, and staying cool. You can also regularly apply over-the-counter moisturisers, or your doctor may prescribe steroid creams to help calm inflammation. Research suggests medical cannabis can also ease symptoms of various skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory properties. 

94%

A 2022 survey found 94% of respondents would be comfortable seeing a dermatologist who recommended medical cannabis

25%

A 2021 study found that 25% of dermatologic conditions being treated with topical cannabis were eczema 

67%

A 2020 study found 67% of subjects reported a decrease in itch with topical CBD, and 50% saw improved eczema

Word from our expert

Dr Sunil Arora Chief Medical Officer

For some patients with eczema, especially those struggling with itch or inflammation despite standard treatments, medical cannabis may offer a gentle and supportive option. 

If stress is a trigger, which it often is, we may also be able to help address that through the endocannabinoid system. It’s an area of growing interest in dermatology.

At Emerald, our team of experts can help you explore medical cannabis treatments for eczema that work for you, providing you with a safe, natural option to restore balance in your life.

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