Eczema in children | Eczema Eaze

What Is Childhood Eczema?

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that makes the skin dry, itchy, and inflamed. For children, flare-ups often appear on the face, hands, elbows, knees, and behind the ears. The severity can range from mild irritation to painful rashes that interfere with sleep and daily activities.

Many children with eczema also have a family history of allergies, asthma, or hay fever — known as the "atopic triad." This link shows that eczema is often part of a wider sensitivity of the immune system.

Common Triggers in Children

Every child is different, but some common eczema triggers include:

Soaps and bubble baths – products with fragrances or harsh chemicals can irritate sensitive skin.
Environmental factors – dust mites, pollen, pet dander, or sudden changes in weather.
Clothing – wool, synthetic fabrics, or tight clothing can rub and irritate the skin.
Food sensitivities – some children react to foods like dairy, eggs, or nuts, though not all cases are food-related.
Stress or lack of sleep – emotional strain can sometimes worsen flare-ups.

How to Care for a Child with Eczema

Managing eczema is about prevention as much as treatment. Here are some practical steps parents can take:

Moisturise frequently: Use fragrance-free creams or ointments several times a day, especially after baths.
Gentle bathing: Keep baths short and use lukewarm water. Avoid bubble baths and harsh soaps.
Choose skin-friendly clothing: Soft cotton clothing is best; avoid wool or scratchy fabrics.
Avoid scratching: Keep nails trimmed short and consider cotton gloves at night to prevent damage from scratching during sleep.
Identify triggers: Keep a diary to track flare-ups and note possible causes such as foods, fabrics, or seasonal changes.
Follow medical advice: Doctors may recommend medicated creams or ointments to control flare-ups.

Emotional Impact on Children

Beyond the physical symptoms, eczema can affect a child’s self-esteem and social confidence. Itchy skin can disturb sleep, making children tired and irritable. Sometimes, children may feel embarrassed about visible rashes. Parents can support their child by:

Reassuring them that eczema is common and nothing to be ashamed of.
Talking openly about their feelings and frustrations.
Working with schools to ensure teachers understand their child’s needs.

When to Seek Medical Help

See a doctor if:

The skin becomes infected (red, swollen, oozing, or very painful).
Over-the-counter treatments are not helping.
Your child’s eczema is affecting their sleep, school, or overall well-being.

Final Thoughts

Eczema in children can be challenging, but with the right care, most children see improvement as they grow older. Early management, gentle skincare, and emotional support can make life easier for both child and parent.