Eczema is a common skin condition affecting an estimated 15% to 20% of children worldwide. It usually presents as dry, itchy, inflamed skin and can be challenging to deal with, especially for new parents.
If your child has eczema and you’re searching for effective treatments to provide relief, this article is for you. Here’s an ultimate guide to treating eczema in children so you can help your little one feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.
Understanding Eczema in Children
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that causes red, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin. While it’s more prevalent among children, it can occur at any age.
The exact cause of eczema is unknown; however, it’s believed to involve a combination of genetics and environmental factors.
Eczema symptoms can vary from child to child but typically include:
- Dry, sensitive skin
- Red, inflamed skin
- Itching, which can be severe, especially at night
- Skin discoloration: dark-colored patches of skin
- Swelling
These symptoms can appear anywhere on the body, though they are often found on the face and scalp, inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on the hands and feet in children.
Management of Eczema in Children
Eczema, a common skin condition in children, can be challenging to manage. However, various treatments can help control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Here’s a look at some effective strategies for treating eczema in children:
Soak and Seal Method
One of the most effective ways to treat eczema in children is the ‘Soak and Seal’ method. This involves giving your child a lukewarm bath for 5 to 10 minutes. After bathing, gently pat the skin with a towel, leaving it slightly damp.
Apply any prescribed topical medication to the affected areas and, within three minutes, apply moisturizer all over your child’s body to lock in the moisture.
Bleach Baths
Bleach baths can help reduce inflammation and bacteria on the skin. To ensure your child’s safety and avoid irritating their already sensitive skin, follow your child’s skin expert’s instructions for bleach bath therapy carefully.
Here’s a step-by-step guide from a skin expert on how to prepare a bleach bath:
Step 1: Choose the Right Bleach
Always use regular strength, 6 percent bleach for the bath. Avoid using concentrated bleach.
Step 2: Measure the Bleach
Use a measuring cup or spoon to add the bleach to the bath. It’s important to get the amount right – too much bleach can irritate your child’s skin, and too little may not be effective.
For a full bathtub of water, use half a cup of bleach, while for a half-full tub of water, add a quarter cup of bleach. Add one teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water for a baby or toddler bathtub.
Step 3: Add Bleach to the Bath
Never apply bleach directly to your child’s skin. Instead, pour the measured bleach into the water while the tub is filling. Ensure the bath is fully drawn and the bleach is thoroughly mixed in before your child enters the tub.
Step 4: Soak in the Bath
Soak your child in the bath for 5 to 10 minutes or as per your child’s dermatologist’s recommendation.
Step 5: Post-Bath Care
After the bath, gently pat your child’s skin dry. If your child uses medications for eczema, apply it immediately after the bath. Then, moisturize your child’s skin to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier.
Wet Wrap Therapy
Wet wrap therapy can be helpful, especially after bathing and moisturizing. It involves wrapping the affected skin areas with wet bandages to calm and rehydrate the skin.
Over-the-Counter Remedies
There are various over-the-counter products available that can help prevent and control eczema symptoms. These include gentle cleansers, mild corticosteroids, moisturizers, petroleum jelly, mineral oil, or tar-based products.
Prescription Treatments
Prescription treatments can be very effective in managing eczema symptoms in children. These may include topical medications, such as corticosteroids and other prescription medications. Remember not to apply any prescription-strength corticosteroids on your child’s skin for longer than two weeks to avoid thinning of skin and skin discoloration.
Phototherapy
Phototherapy, which involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet B (UVB) light using a special machine, can help improve eczema symptoms.
Tips for Preventing Eczema Flare-ups
There are numerous ways to prevent eczema flare-ups, including:
- Maintain a Regular Bathing and Moisturizing Routine: Daily baths in lukewarm water help hydrate the skin. After bathing, gently pat your child’s skin dry and immediately apply a liberal amount of moisturizer to lock in the moisture.
- Choose Soft, Breathable Clothing: Some fabrics can irritate the skin and exacerbate eczema symptoms. Opt for clothes made of soft materials like cotton and avoid synthetic fabrics and wool.
- Avoid Known Triggers: Common triggers include dry skin, irritants like soaps and detergents, allergens like dust mites and pet dander, and environmental factors like heat and humidity. Keeping a symptom diary can help identify potential triggers.
Eczema Treatment in Phoenix, AZ
Are you concerned about a rash or skin condition affecting your child? At Happy Skin Pediatric Dermatology, we provide comprehensive healthcare for a variety of skin conditions, from eczema and acne to vitiligo and molluscum. Our team is dedicated to helping relieve your child’s discomfort and ensure they can live their happiest life.
If you have any questions or want to schedule a consultation with our pediatric nurse practitioner, don’t hesitate to call us at (602) 837-3376 or use our convenient online appointment request form.
