Why does it show up? How can you get rid of it? 

Here is everything you need to know about helping your child with eczema.

Signs of Eczema

Although eczema can show up anywhere on the body, most signs of the condition in children can be found on the face, feet, arms, legs, and scalp. 

So, what does eczema look like? It can appear as: 

• A rash with little bumps 
• Dry skin
• Itchy patches of skin
• Hyperpigmentation (darker patches of skin)

What Causes Eczema in Children?

Although researchers do not know the exact cause of eczema in children, they do believe that it likely occurs due to both genetic and environmental factors. 

Things like lotions, shampoos, cleansers, laundry detergents, and ointments can all play a role in causing eczema. Exposure to cold, dry air can cause flare–ups, too. 

Food allergies are also thought to play a role in the skin condition. Keep an eye out for reactions as you slowly introduce new foods to the diet. However, note that this rash may not show up immediately, but a day or two later. A few additional things that can trigger eczema include:

• Sweating
• Certain materials or fabrics
• Plants
• Pet dander – or direct contact with a pet
• Dust

It is important to note that the cause will vary from child to child — and more than one thing can be a culprit.

Reduce Your Child’s Risk of Eczema

While anyone at any age can get eczema, children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years seem to commonly suffer from the condition.

You cannot remove a child’s risk entirely because of the genetic factor, but you can take preventative measures to reduce the risk of interference from environmental factors. For instance, you can select ‘sensitive-skin’ options of products you use on your baby’s skin. 

A few additional steps you can take include: 

• Keep your child cool and dry
• Use fragrance-free moisturizer daily to keep skin from getting too dry
• Avoid using irritating fabrics
• Always wash your child’s new clothes with an allergen-free detergent before wearing

Knowing your child’s triggers will be beneficial when it comes to preventing a recurrence. 

Home Care for Eczema

Below are a few tips for at-home care for eczema. 

• Do what you can to minimize scratching. This may mean keeping the nails cut short or placing gloves on a baby. Scratching will only further aggravate the situation and may even lead to an infection. 
• Use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or ointment. Talk to your pediatrician if you are unsure what would be best for your little one. 
• Moisturize skin that is dry and scaly before it gets worse.

Treating Eczema in Children

If your child is showing signs of eczema, it is always a good idea to make an appointment with the pediatrician. There are medicated topical creams that can be used to give your little one relief. 

At-home remedies can be helpful, but seeking guidance from your trusted pediatrician is always the best place to start when it comes to your child’s health. 

Eczema Treatment at Advocare Haddon Pediatrics

Give your child healthy, soft skin that is free from eczema with the help of the team of pediatricians at Advocare Haddon Pediatrics. We address all your concerns, answer all your questions, and provide the best solutions — even when it comes to dry, itchy skin. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations in Mullica Hill and Haddon Heights.