Chronic skin problem (6)
I believe the answer is:
eczema
'chronic skin problem' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for eczema that I've seen before include "Distressing skin ailment" , "Irritating disease of the skin" , "Itchy skin disorder" , "external irritation" , "Inflammatory skin condition" .)