Eczema affects more than 20% of kids, and is the name of a group of conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy, and inflamed. Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis (also known as “cradle cap”), are the most common types of eczema that affect children.

What does it look like?

Eczema looks different in infants and toddlers than in older children.

Infants (first 6 months): Usually appears on the cheeks, chin, forehead, and scalp. It can also spread to other parts of the body, but not the diaper area. The skin tends to look red and weepy.

Babies (6 – 12 months): At this stage eczema often appears on your baby’s elbows and knees – places that are easy to scratch as they’re crawling. An infected rash may form a yellow crust, or small “puss bumps” on the skin.

Toddlers (2 – 5 years): Around age 2, your toddler’s eczema is more likely to appear in the skin around the mouth and the eyelids. The skin will look dry, scaly, and become thick with deeper lines.

Children (5 years +): Eczema usually appears in the folds of the elbows and/or knees. And sometimes, only on the hands. Redness and itchy patches behind your child’s ears, on their feet, or on the scalp, may be a typical sign of atopic dermatitis.

In teens, rashes may show up on elbows, hands, necks, and feet. Eczema on the face is rare among older kids and teens.

There’s no way to reduce your child’s eczema risk. For most, it’s caused by a genetic mutation that makes skin more permeable, allowing irritants to penetrate and moisture to escape, leaving skin dry, flaky, and irritated.

Common triggers include sweating, exposure to very dry air (especially during the winter months), and irritants such as laundry detergents and perfumed soap. Harsh fabrics, such as wool or polyester, as well as allergens (like dust mites, pet dander, mold, and pollen), could play a significant role in flare-ups.

What is the outlook for kids with eczema?

Eczema may come and go as your child gets older, but for most children, eczema improves during childhood. Your child may always have a slight problem with dry skin and the occasional rash, but the vast majority of children grow up with truly little inconvenience from this condition.

Is eczema treatable?

It is important to get a diagnosis from your health care provider, but even then, it can be hard to control.

Your doctor will most likely prescribe a mild steroid cream (a.k.a cortisone) to calm the itching and the redness.

Keeping the skin moisturized is your first line of defense. Try luke-warm baths and towel off gently by patting the skin dry. Then, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Avoid scented soaps and lotions and use a mild, dye-free detergent. Also, consider using a humidifier during the dry winter months.

If you are concerned that your child may have eczema, consult with your health care provider. Treating eczema early could reduce the severity of the condition later on.

Source: healthline.com, nationaleczema.org, askdrsears.com, todaysparent.com, nytimes.com, whattoexpect.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.