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Caring for Children: Sensitive Skin or Eczema

Some children have very sensitive or dry skin. Eczema is a common problem in childhood that often occurs in children with a family history of allergies or asthma. Children with eczema have constant dry skin and develop a rash that is extremely itchy. The rash commonly occurs on the cheeks and trunk in infants. In older children, it occurs in the creases of elbows, wrists and knees. Eczema is a condition that may come and go throughout childhood, but is often worse in the winter, when the air is dry.

Home treatment of eczema:
Moisturizing the skin: the most important aspect of treating dry skin is moisturizing. Children should have a bath every day with a very mild soap such as Dove or Oil of Olay. Immediately after the bath, lock in moisture by applying a good moisturizer: Aquaphor, Lubriderm, Eucerin, Nivea and Nutraderm are some suggestions. Use a humidifier in the dry winter months.

Topical steroids: If the rash is very itchy and red, your provider might prescribe a topical steroid cream or ointment. This medicine reduces inflammation and can help symptoms dramatically.

Reduce itching: avoid clothing made from scratchy, rough materials such as wool. Wear cotton as much as possible. Avoid excessive heat or cold, harsh chemicals and soaps. Keep fingernails short and clean to help prevent infection.

Call the office if:

1. You think your child has eczema and is not responding to moisturizers.
2. The rash looks infected (increasing redness, yellow pus).
3. The rash has not improved with one week of treatment.
4. You have other concerns.