Researchers from the University of Hong Kong have developed a plant-based composite formula that improves the condition of those who suffer from eczema.

The moisturiser, called Anesinin, tames the toxicity of eczema-causing bacteria rather than existing methods that outright kill them.

They said this helps combat the global challenge of resistance to antibiotics and offers an alternative to other short-term treatments for the condition.

Professor Richard Kao from the university's department of microbiology said Anesinin was unique as it was the first formulation of a non-antibiotic approach to eczema treatment.

"They do not kill the bacteria...instead they just shut down the capability of the bacteria to produce toxins," he said.

"[The eczema-causing bacteria] becomes normal bacteria, just [staying] on your skin, just like other beneficial bacteria, they will not cause problems."

Kao cited the case of a woman who had to live with eczema since she was one year old.

Now in her 20s, she no longer needs to use injected biologics and topical steroids after using the formula to control her skin condition.

"Eczema patients, after applying [Anesinin] maybe four or five times, will usually feel the itchiness seem to be kind of subsiding," Kao said.

"After a few days, they can really tell 'oh wow, it's not as itchy as before.'"