There is no cure for eczema but flares of eczema can be controlled well in most children with good skin care and avoidance of triggers. In certain cases of severe eczema, your doctor may advise on long-term oral immunosuppressive medications to control the chronic inflammation.
Caring for children with eczema
Moisturising and avoiding common triggers are important in caring for your child’s skin.
Choose a thick plain fragrance-free moisturising cream rather than a lotion and apply to all areas off your child’s skin to protect it. It should be used regularly, at least once to twice a day or more often as necessary even when their skin is clear. Soap-free body washes or bath oils should be used for baths and showers. Do not use washes or creams with food or plant-based ingredients especially in young children as they may develop sensitisation to these foods through the skin. Pat your child dry with a soft towel after bath instead of rubbing the skin.
Keep your child cool and comfortable to reduce sweat. Dress them in light cotton clothing and keep the room well-ventilated. Aim for an ambient room temperature of 25°C. Use a moist towel to wipe down any sweat instead of allowing it to dry up on your child’s skin.
Avoid other irritants such as detergents, harsh soaps and bubble baths. Avoid wool or acrylic materials for clothing or bedding.
In young children/babies, drool and saliva often cause irritation around the mouth or neck. Apply a thick layer of moisturiser to these areas often to act as a barrier and protect the skin. Wipe off any drool with a clean moist towel.
Scratching can worsen eczema and cause skin infections. Ensure your child’s fingernails are kept clean and trimmed. Store your moisturising cream in the fridge and use the cool cream on the skin with massaging motions to reduce itch and provide comfort. You can also use cool compresses over areas of itchy skin. Wet wraps can be used overnight and for short periods in the day to provide relief.
Work together with your doctor for a detailed eczema care plan for your child so that you can effectively manage flares. It may be necessary to apply topical steroid creams for short courses as advised by your doctor to help reduce skin inflammation during flare episodes. Do not rely on over-the-counter creams without seeking proper medical advice and follow-up.
You should also bring your child to a doctor if they display any of the following symptoms:
- Your child’s eczema is not getting better after 2 days of regular treatment
- Your child’s skin is showing signs of infection that is weeping, oozing or yellow crusting of the affected areas
- Your child develops fevers with worsening eczema symptoms
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