Dubidi, on the hydrocortisone issue - we were given similar advise to Lizziejo (although by a dif dermatologist) - basically, the problem with a most people is that they don't use enough steroids. (Obv depends on how bad the eczema is, so check with the dermatologist). But as our ds's was quite severe, on his whole body and face, we were advised to use quite a lot of 1% hc, twice a day I think, on his face, and something stronger called Synalar 1 in 4 on his body. I think the idea is that if you use the steroid ointments quite aggressively for a relatively short period it shouldn't harm the skin (as it is not used long term) and should "kill" the eczema once and for all. Well, not exactly get rid of the eczema, as I think that is a life condition, but that it shouldn't manifest itself nearly as severly as originally. e.g. she said it could clear up for years and then flare up again as an adult if, for example, the child became a surgeon and did lots of hand-washing (which would irritate the skin) etc..
Sorry, long rant.. as I said before, all kids are different and react better or worse to dif creams etc.
Also, for what it's worth, my ds is allergic to milk, eggs and other things, but those had no effect on his eczema as he never ate them, has never eaten them, I breastfed exclusively for 8 months and completely abstained from those things myself, and carried on breastfeeding and avoiding those foods etc. for 17 months. No change to the ezcema - but then it does affect some, so again, no real help there!
Epaderm also good, but v heavy and greasy. Good for tough patches.