In this episode of OSCE Talk, Peter and Matthew talk through how to counsel a patient with eczema and psoriasis, with a strong focus on clear, patient-friendly explanations and practical management advice.

We start by breaking down eczema as a chronic atopic condition, explaining the skin-barrier problem in simple terms that patients can understand. We discuss common triggers, the relapsing–remitting nature of eczema, and how it often sits alongside asthma and hay fever as part of the atopic triad.

The episode then moves into practical counselling, covering the core principles of management — emollients and topical steroids — including how to reassure patients about steroid use, how to explain potency, and how to encourage long-term prevention rather than repeated flares.

We also highlight the mental health impact of chronic skin conditions, the importance of screening for infection during flares, and when to escalate care or refer to dermatology for specialist treatments.

This episode is ideal for OSCE counselling stations, medical students, and foundation doctors looking to improve confidence in explaining dermatological conditions in a structured, empathetic way.