Understanding Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common chronic skin condition in children, characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It often begins in infancy or early childhood and can persist into adolescence or adulthood.
Typical Characteristics
- Chronic and relapsing
- Often associated with allergies, asthma, or hay fever
- Often appears on cheeks, scalp, trunk, and extremities in infants; on flexural areas (elbows, knees) in older children
When to Manage at Home
✅ You can manage your child's eczema at home when:
- Mild symptoms: localized dry, itchy patches without significant redness, swelling, or oozing
- Child is otherwise well and comfortable
- No signs of infection (e.g., pus, fever, rapidly spreading redness)
How to Treat at Home
Moisturizing
- Apply thick moisturizers (ointment or cream, like Aquaphor or Vaseline) at least twice daily
- Use immediately after bathing (within 3 minutes)
Bathing Techniques
- Short (10–15 minute) lukewarm baths
- Use fragrance-free, non-soap cleansers
- Pat skin dry, don’t rub
- For younger children you can avoid using soap every day unless soiled - soap can dry out skin, it’s important to strike a balance between moisture and cleanliness
Avoiding Triggers
- Use fragrance-free laundry detergents and products
- Dress child in breathable cotton fabrics
- Keep fingernails trimmed to prevent scratching
Cool Compresses
- Can help relieve itching and inflammation.
Wet Wrap Therapy
- Apply moisturizer and/or topical treatment, then wrap the area with damp cloth and dry layer on top.
Safe Medications
- Corticosteroids (Hydrocortisone 1% cream OTC) to red/dry/itchy areas twice a day
- Do not use on face
- Do not use more than twice a day for more than 7 days in a row
- Antihistamines (e.g., Zyrtec) if itching is causing discomfort or disrupting sleep
- Antibiotic creams (e.g., Bacitracin, Neosporin) if secondary infection is suspected
When to Contact Us Again
📱 Contact us when:
- Eczema lasting more than 2-3 weeks without improvement
- Eczema worsens or doesn’t improve with home care
- Significant sleep disturbance or impact on daily life
- You're just not sure and need reassurance
When to Visit Your Pediatrician
🩺 Go to an in-person appointment when:
- Eczema lasting more than 1 month without improvement
- Signs of infection (oozing, crusting, pain, fever)
- Need for allergy testing
If your gut tells you something is wrong, don't hesitate to reach out. Need help? Reconnect with our on-demand team of medical staff available 24/7.
