Children with eczema can experience dry patches of itchy skin. The itch can disrupt their sleep and leave them feeling uncomfortable. Scratching the affected areas can lead to worsening redness and increase the risk of infection. Although there is no cure for eczema, there are some treatment options that can help your child feel better.
Repairing the Skin
Providing gentle healthcare to your child can help them feel better. When a child suffers from eczema, their skin barrier is not holding as much moisture as it should. This can lead to dry, cracked skin. There are a few things you can do to improve your child’s skin barrier.
Bathe Your Child
Bathe your child for 5-10 minutes daily using lukewarm water without soap. Instead, opt for a gentle, non-soap cleanser to clean their neck, armpits, hands, feet, and other sweaty areas. Avoid scrubbing, as this can lead to further irritation.
Pat the Skin Dry
After the bath, pat your child’s skin dry instead of wiping. If you have a medicated topical medication from your child’s doctor, apply this before applying any moisturizer.
Apply a Moisturizer
While the skin is still damp, apply a moisturizer to lock in the water. It can also help to use cotton clothing and fragrance-free detergents to decrease the chances of irritation.
Reducing the Itch
Other ways you can help alleviate the symptoms your child experiences include focusing on reducing the itch.
Consider Wet Wraps
Wet wraps after bathing can help boost the moisture held in the skin. Make sure the room is warm or you use a warm blanket to ensure your child does not feel cold.
Use Antihistamines
Antihistamine medications can help alleviate some of the itching and allow your child to fall asleep more easily.
Healing the Rash
Using medication can help clear up some of the rash your child may have.
Non-Steroid Medication
These medications include pimecrolimus creams, tacrolimus ointment, or crisaborole ointment, and can help heal some of the rashes on the skin. This medication is especially helpful for mild eczema and for treating the groin, armpits, eyelids, and other delicate areas.
Topical Steroids
These medications can include cortisones or steroids and can be applied to the skin directly on the rash. Topical steroids help calm inflammation and can be used twice daily during flares.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If your child is struggling with eczema, Dr. Fiona Wright at Skin M.D. and Beyond can help. Our team in Plano, TX, can help determine the most appropriate treatment option to ensure your child is able to get the relief they need. Contact our office now at 972-608-0808 to schedule an appointment.