For patients with eczema, a bleach or condys crystals bath can be used to reduce the bacterial load on the skin which can be contributing to recurrent flare ups and infection.

Bleach Baths instructions

Add 12 mL of bleach for every 10 litres of water

Plain white bleach (e.g. white king bleach regular) can be used - avoid fragranced bleach

Bathe for 10-15 minutes

Pat skin dry after

1-2 caps of QV bath oil can also be added

This can be done once or twice a week, or more frequent in an active infection.

Find more information at the Royal Children’s Hospital Website

Condy’s crystals bath instructions

Purchase condys crystals (potassium permanganate) at your regular pharmacist

Make a solution of potassium permanganate, fill the bath with water and add a small pinch of condys crystals

The water should turn a very light pink, like this

Please see an instructional video at the Queensland Children’s Hospital website

Condys crystals can also be used to the lower legs in venous eczema - isntead of making up a bath use a bucket.

For smaller lesions such as cuts, abrasions, or healing skin cancer excisions, the condys crystals solution can be made up in a small cup, a clean makeup round or cotton ball can be soaked into this solution, and then placed on the skin for 15 minutes.

What if I don’t have a bath?

Microshield 2 Chlorhexidine Skin Cleanser or phisohex wash can also be used as antibacterial agents in the shower.