The number one priority here is to care for the child holistically and not just focus on their skin issues. When a child is prone to Eczema there are complex, variable and individual factors at play.
A child’s unique personality, genetics, health profile and nature are all a part of why they’re prone to chronic rashes.
How can you help ease its impact?
Knowing your child and factors linked to flare-ups is so important and no-one else can do this like you can. Of course there are also general issues and possible causes:
- Genetics – an inherited tendency
- Allergies
- Irritants in the home, food, air, water, clothing, soaps, skincare products
- Infections and illness – these can cause eczema outbreaks
- Stress – may not cause but can make worse
There are 6 main types of Dermatitis/Eczema – this note is focused on Atopic which affects 1 in 5 children at some time, and 1 in 10 adults!
Before sharing some tips for managing skin prone to Eczema - please note there are times when a visit to the doctor is necessary such as:
- The skin hasn’t cleared after 3 weeks of using a prescription treatment
- There are lesions, blisters or open sores
- The skin is cracking and bleeding
- Infection has developed due to scratching
- The child is otherwise unwell and miserable
Dr Jude’s Top Tips:
- Keep the skin constantly moisturised with a deeply hydrating product even putting some in the school bag to use during day
- Be sure to apply liberally onto warm skin straight after bath or shower
- Choose a moisturiser that also helps reduce itching and scratching – products containing Colloidal Oatmeal can be ideal
- Protect against infection by keeping affected skin clean with gentle soap
- Select hypoallergenic products and even then patch test before use
- Wash sheets, towels and clothes often using mild soap
- Stick to natural fabrics against the skin
- Avoid sweaty activities and situations where child overheats
- Be aware of possible pet allergies
- Be aware of possible food triggers
- Try to de-emphasise rather than over-emphasise the problem
- Convey confidence and reassurance that your simple measures and treatments will help
- Encourage child to go in clean ocean if old enough and you have that option
- For bad flare-ups, especially heat or allergy related, apply freshly picked and peeled aloe vera directly to skin – keep a supply of pieces in freezer
- Find a single natural product that is emollient, hydrating, healing, gentle and protective
- Look for one that repairs the skin barrier, helps balance pH and restores the microbiome – this will be your trusted friend and constant companion!
Written by Dr Jude Lenart, PhD in Natural Medicine.
This is general information for our readers, not medical advice or opinion.
Jude has a PhD. in Natural Medicine - she is not a medical practitioner.
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- Toxic Truths in Skin Care
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- Why is a Healthy Skin Microbiome So Important
