What Does Eczema Control Mean.
What Does Eczema Control Mean.
What Does Eczema Control Mean.
Explore the perceptions of eczema control among affected individuals and parents of children with eczema.
Explore the perceptions of eczema control among affected individuals and parents of children with eczema.
Explore the perceptions of eczema control among affected individuals and parents of children with eczema.
2023-03-14T00:00:00.000Z
2023-03-14T00:00:00.000Z
2023-03-14T00:00:00.000Z
This research spotlight focuses on a paper from 2017. It explores the perceptions of control amongst people with eczema and parents of children with eczema in the UK.
In A Nutshell
Eczema control means different things to different people.
The various categories of control can be split into symptoms, psychological impact, treatments and scoring systems.
The Proton Health app is a great way to assess overall eczema control because it includes all of the above themes.
Introduction
It’s pretty common to talk about ‘controlling’ eczema. But what does that really mean? Is that when we’re not experiencing flare-ups, when we have no itching sensations or when it doesn’t affect our day-to-day life?
Researchers from the UK wanted to find out by understanding the perspectives of eczema sufferers and parents of those with eczema.
How They Did It
They recruited 36 participants for semi-structured interviews. This is when the conversations include both questions and open discussions to get as many insights as possible. The interviews, in this case, involved understanding what good eczema control meant to different people.
The interviews were then recorded and transcribed with a framework analysis to get the results. Framework analysis is a fancy method of analysing interviews by grouping the answers into different themes to answer the original question.
This research spotlight focuses on a paper from 2017. It explores the perceptions of control amongst people with eczema and parents of children with eczema in the UK.
In A Nutshell
Eczema control means different things to different people.
The various categories of control can be split into symptoms, psychological impact, treatments and scoring systems.
The Proton Health app is a great way to assess overall eczema control because it includes all of the above themes.
Introduction
It’s pretty common to talk about ‘controlling’ eczema. But what does that really mean? Is that when we’re not experiencing flare-ups, when we have no itching sensations or when it doesn’t affect our day-to-day life?
Researchers from the UK wanted to find out by understanding the perspectives of eczema sufferers and parents of those with eczema.
How They Did It
They recruited 36 participants for semi-structured interviews. This is when the conversations include both questions and open discussions to get as many insights as possible. The interviews, in this case, involved understanding what good eczema control meant to different people.
The interviews were then recorded and transcribed with a framework analysis to get the results. Framework analysis is a fancy method of analysing interviews by grouping the answers into different themes to answer the original question.
This research spotlight focuses on a paper from 2017. It explores the perceptions of control amongst people with eczema and parents of children with eczema in the UK.
In A Nutshell
Eczema control means different things to different people.
The various categories of control can be split into symptoms, psychological impact, treatments and scoring systems.
The Proton Health app is a great way to assess overall eczema control because it includes all of the above themes.
Introduction
It’s pretty common to talk about ‘controlling’ eczema. But what does that really mean? Is that when we’re not experiencing flare-ups, when we have no itching sensations or when it doesn’t affect our day-to-day life?
Researchers from the UK wanted to find out by understanding the perspectives of eczema sufferers and parents of those with eczema.
How They Did It
They recruited 36 participants for semi-structured interviews. This is when the conversations include both questions and open discussions to get as many insights as possible. The interviews, in this case, involved understanding what good eczema control meant to different people.
The interviews were then recorded and transcribed with a framework analysis to get the results. Framework analysis is a fancy method of analysing interviews by grouping the answers into different themes to answer the original question.
The Discoveries
The results were surprising because there wasn’t a single answer that participants mentioned. Instead, 4 themes came from the research:
Theme 1 - Symptoms of control
Some participants felt that a reduction in symptoms such as itch and sleep loss was how they determined their control. But there were differences in the level of symptom control between participants.
Theme 2 - Eczema control goes beyond the skin
Many interviewees mentioned that controlling their psychological and social factors was significant. They also considered the impact of scratching on everyday activities as a way of being in control of their eczema.
Theme 3 - Stepping up and down treatment
This measure of control was influenced by the treatments a participant was using. So if they were using fewer treatments, they’d consider this reasonable control and vice versa.
Theme 4 - Using scoring systems
Many participants used self-reporting tools to measure their degree of eczema control. Most believed it was essential to measure their eczema frequently. However, they often felt this wasn’t realistic with the available tools.
What’s Does It Mean For You
The clear conclusion is that people's sense of control varies from person to person. Whilst some feel that reducing symptoms is a great day, others are happy when their social life isn’t affected. Either way, it’s important to remember that you aren’t alone and that eczema affects people differently.
A great way to improve your sense of control is by journalling frequently. The research is pretty staggering when it comes to regular journaling. It’s shown to enhance our sense of control and ability to handle unexpected situations (like flare-ups) much better.
The advantage of doing this using the Proton Health Skin Score is that you’ll also receive an analysis of your triggers and symptoms. So the above 4 themes are always covered!
Reference
Howells, L. M., Chalmers, J. R., Cowdell, F., Ratib, S., Santer, M., & Thomas, K. S. (2017). 'When it goes back to my normal I suppose': a qualitative study using online focus groups to explore perceptions of 'control' among people with eczema and parents of children with eczema in the UK. BMJ open, 7(11), e017731. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2017-017731
Available from:
The Discoveries
The results were surprising because there wasn’t a single answer that participants mentioned. Instead, 4 themes came from the research:
Theme 1 - Symptoms of control
Some participants felt that a reduction in symptoms such as itch and sleep loss was how they determined their control. But there were differences in the level of symptom control between participants.
Theme 2 - Eczema control goes beyond the skin
Many interviewees mentioned that controlling their psychological and social factors was significant. They also considered the impact of scratching on everyday activities as a way of being in control of their eczema.
Theme 3 - Stepping up and down treatment
This measure of control was influenced by the treatments a participant was using. So if they were using fewer treatments, they’d consider this reasonable control and vice versa.
Theme 4 - Using scoring systems
Many participants used self-reporting tools to measure their degree of eczema control. Most believed it was essential to measure their eczema frequently. However, they often felt this wasn’t realistic with the available tools.
What’s Does It Mean For You
The clear conclusion is that people's sense of control varies from person to person. Whilst some feel that reducing symptoms is a great day, others are happy when their social life isn’t affected. Either way, it’s important to remember that you aren’t alone and that eczema affects people differently.
A great way to improve your sense of control is by journalling frequently. The research is pretty staggering when it comes to regular journaling. It’s shown to enhance our sense of control and ability to handle unexpected situations (like flare-ups) much better.
The advantage of doing this using the Proton Health Skin Score is that you’ll also receive an analysis of your triggers and symptoms. So the above 4 themes are always covered!
Reference
Howells, L. M., Chalmers, J. R., Cowdell, F., Ratib, S., Santer, M., & Thomas, K. S. (2017). 'When it goes back to my normal I suppose': a qualitative study using online focus groups to explore perceptions of 'control' among people with eczema and parents of children with eczema in the UK. BMJ open, 7(11), e017731. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2017-017731
Available from:
The Discoveries
The results were surprising because there wasn’t a single answer that participants mentioned. Instead, 4 themes came from the research:
Theme 1 - Symptoms of control
Some participants felt that a reduction in symptoms such as itch and sleep loss was how they determined their control. But there were differences in the level of symptom control between participants.
Theme 2 - Eczema control goes beyond the skin
Many interviewees mentioned that controlling their psychological and social factors was significant. They also considered the impact of scratching on everyday activities as a way of being in control of their eczema.
Theme 3 - Stepping up and down treatment
This measure of control was influenced by the treatments a participant was using. So if they were using fewer treatments, they’d consider this reasonable control and vice versa.
Theme 4 - Using scoring systems
Many participants used self-reporting tools to measure their degree of eczema control. Most believed it was essential to measure their eczema frequently. However, they often felt this wasn’t realistic with the available tools.
What’s Does It Mean For You
The clear conclusion is that people's sense of control varies from person to person. Whilst some feel that reducing symptoms is a great day, others are happy when their social life isn’t affected. Either way, it’s important to remember that you aren’t alone and that eczema affects people differently.
A great way to improve your sense of control is by journalling frequently. The research is pretty staggering when it comes to regular journaling. It’s shown to enhance our sense of control and ability to handle unexpected situations (like flare-ups) much better.
The advantage of doing this using the Proton Health Skin Score is that you’ll also receive an analysis of your triggers and symptoms. So the above 4 themes are always covered!
Reference
Howells, L. M., Chalmers, J. R., Cowdell, F., Ratib, S., Santer, M., & Thomas, K. S. (2017). 'When it goes back to my normal I suppose': a qualitative study using online focus groups to explore perceptions of 'control' among people with eczema and parents of children with eczema in the UK. BMJ open, 7(11), e017731. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2017-017731
Available from:
Dr Niall Jawad
Dr Niall Jawad
Dr Niall Jawad
our journal
our journal
our journal
More insights for you.
More insights for you.
More insights for you.
Explore more reflections, guidance, and practical tools to support your growth and well-being.
Explore more reflections, guidance, and practical tools to support your growth and well-being.
Explore more reflections, guidance, and practical tools to support your growth and well-being.
Explore the relationship between eczema and sleep, and learn tips for better sleep and eczema management.
Explore the relationship between eczema and sleep, and learn tips for better sleep and eczema management.
Explore the relationship between eczema and sleep, and learn tips for better sleep and eczema management.
Here, we'll examine the impact of education programs on quality of life and eczema severity.
Here, we'll examine the impact of education programs on quality of life and eczema severity.
Here, we'll examine the impact of education programs on quality of life and eczema severity.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.