I personally have eczema on my nipples.  I have found that I need to be very
observant and start treating a flare up as soon as it happens.  When I first
got eczema, my first son was 22 months old.   My second son is now 6 months
old. I used a very strong steroid cream initially I can't remember exactly
what it was.  I used it after each feeding and only fed one breast per feed.
 I now use 1% over the counter cortisone cream when a flare occurs.  I did
not wash off the cream before feedings.  I spoke to a dermatologist (Sharon
Billon MD) who did a study with Kathleen Huggins (Twenty Cases of Persistant
Sore Nipples JHL 1993) before I started with the steroid cream.  Other things
that the dermatologist suggested that have helped to keep flare ups to a
minium are wearing a cotton bra that does not have a seam over the nipple.
 Changing bras or nursing pads frequently even if they are just damp.
 Leaving my nipples open to air when possible.  Being observant and treating
early.  Hope this helps.

Helen Schieve RN BSN LLLL