Eczema and psoriasis clinical trials test new treatments for these skin conditions — including biologics, JAK inhibitors and creams — and many pay volunteers for their time. In the UK, dermatology studies are run by the NHS, universities and private research units, all regulated by the MHRA. Because they often need volunteers with visible, active skin conditions, these trials can be among the better-paid studies available. This guide explains who can take part, what you can earn, and how to find a genuine study.
Who is this guide for?
This guide is for people living with eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis or other inflammatory skin conditions who are interested in research studies, as well as healthy volunteers wanting to understand how dermatology trials work, eligibility, pay, and how to apply safely.
What are eczema and psoriasis clinical trials?
These are controlled studies that test new ways to treat skin conditions. They may involve biologic injections (such as dupilumab), JAK inhibitor tablets, new creams and topical treatments, phototherapy, or research into how the conditions progress. Some studies recruit people with active eczema or psoriasis; others recruit healthy volunteers for early-phase research. UK trials such as BEACON, run through St John’s Institute of Dermatology, are comparing systemic treatments for more severe eczema.
Why dermatology trials are often well paid
Many skin studies need volunteers with a visible, active condition at the time of the study — a more specific requirement than general healthy-volunteer research. Because eligible participants can be harder to recruit, dermatology studies often compensate well for time, travel and inconvenience. Units such as the Medicines Evaluation Unit in Manchester regularly recruit paid volunteers with eczema, psoriasis and similar conditions.
Who can take part in a skin trial?
Eligibility depends on the specific study. Common criteria include:
- A diagnosis of eczema, psoriasis or another specified skin condition
- A minimum level of disease severity or affected body area
- Being within a certain age range
- Whether you currently use systemic or topical treatments
- General health and other medical history
Each trial sets out its full inclusion and exclusion criteria in the participant information sheet before you consent.
How much do eczema and psoriasis trials pay?
Pay depends on the study, its length, and the number of visits or overnight stays. As a general UK benchmark:
- Outpatient visits: £50–£200 per visit
- Studies with frequent visits: several hundred pounds or more
- Longer or residential studies: £1,000–£3,000+
Some NHS and university skin studies cover travel expenses only. For a full breakdown, see our guide to the best-paid clinical trials.
How do you find an eczema or psoriasis trial?
- Search a registered source. Use the UK’s Be Part of Research service or the WHO registry.
- Check skin charities. The National Eczema Society and psoriasis charities list research opportunities.
- Speak to your dermatologist or GP. They may know of suitable studies.
- Read the participant information sheet for what’s involved, any compensation, and your right to withdraw.
Manchester is a major centre for dermatology research — see our guide to paid clinical trials in Manchester for local options.
Are eczema and psoriasis trials safe?
UK dermatology trials operate under strict safeguards: every study must be authorised by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and approved by an independent research ethics committee, as the NHS explains. You are monitored by medical staff throughout and can withdraw at any time, without giving a reason. Our guide to clinical trial safety and compensation covers the protections in more depth.
The bottom line
Eczema and psoriasis clinical trials offer access to new treatments and, often, good compensation because eligible volunteers can be harder to find. Use a registered source, confirm the study is MHRA-approved, never pay to take part, and read the information sheet before you consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do eczema and psoriasis trials pay?
Many do, and often reasonably well because volunteers with active skin conditions can be harder to recruit. Pay ranges from £50–£200 per visit up to £3,000+ for longer studies. Some NHS studies cover expenses only.
Can I join if my skin condition is mild?
It depends on the study. Many trials require a minimum level of severity or affected body area, while others accept milder cases or healthy volunteers. The criteria will state the requirement.
Can I join a skin trial if I use creams or biologics?
It depends. Some studies recruit people already on treatment; others require a washout period first. The eligibility criteria will make this clear.
Are eczema and psoriasis trials safe?
Yes. They are MHRA-authorised, ethics-approved and medically supervised throughout. You can withdraw at any time.
How do I find a skin trial near me?
Use the NHS Be Part of Research service, check the National Eczema Society, ask your dermatologist, or compare studies through CheckMyTrial.
Find clinical trials near you
CheckMyTrial helps you compare clinical trials across the UK by location, condition and study type. Browse current trials or read how clinical trials work before you apply.