Some people may be more prone to allergies thats why they got eczema. Some term eczema as an autoimmnue disesase.
If you experience eczema as a child, chances are high that you may 'outgrow' it. But if you have it as an adult, it may most probably stick with you throughout the rest of your life. Sadly, there is no cure, but to control it.
CREAMS:
There are many types of steroid-based creams out there, with varying strengths. Examples of these creams are Bethamethasone, Dermovate, Elomet, Fucicort, Triderm, supricort, just to name a few. What works for you may not work for others.
There are also those without steroid-bases. I can't remember the names. But they are far more expensive than those steroid types.
MEDICATIONS:
If your types is severe, then the dermatologists will generally prescribe steroids, namely prednisolone to control your eczema. Its meant to calm down the exzema. Short courses of prednisolne is ok. Its not meant to be taken over long term. You need to stop after a course.
Azathioprine might be prescribed if yours is a very serious case. This is meant to suppress your immune system. to prevent eczema from flaring up. You may need to take blood tests every 3 to 4 months to ensure your white blood cells is at a safe level.
Moisturizers:
Most doctors would prescribe aqueous cream, QV cream or white soft parrafin. Aqueous cream is the least oily and paraffin is the most oily.
You can all these from the pharmacies. Where possible try to apply the moisturizers at least 3 times a day.
Some doctors recommend applying steroid creams and after a while your moisturizers. There are some who did it the other way round - Moisturizers before steroid creams. This method is to buffer the steroid creams so that it will not be so harsh on the skin.