Winter weather can be tough on young skin, especially for children prone to eczema, which often runs in families with a history of allergies or asthma. Dry air, chilly winds, and indoor heating can all contribute to flare-ups, leaving skin irritated, itchy, and uncomfortable. If your child is struggling with eczema this season, you’re not alone. One in three Australian children are affected by this common condition.
Below, Dr Kristen Matti, who has a special interest in children’s health, shares some practical tips to help soothe your child’s skin and advice on when it’s time to seek support from your GP.
The first step is identifying and addressing what triggers your child’s eczema. This could be:
- Overheating such as in hot baths, heaters, woolen jumpers
- Physical irritants such as wool fabrics, soap, bubble baths
- Environmental allergens such as pets, pollen, grass and dust mites
- Babies often get eczema on their face and neck from saliva contacting skin
What basic measures can I start doing to help?
- Add a fragrance-free bath oil to your child’s bath and keep the water luke-warm
- Use soap-free cleanser to clean them
- Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! Apply fragrance-free moisturiser at least twice a day, especially immediately after the bath to lock in moisture
- Make sure you avoid skin products with fragrances and food products as these can worsen eczema
- Use cotton clothing and pyjamas
- Keep fingernails cut short to limit effects of scratching
- For drool rash- wipe away saliva and foods with water only, and apply a barrier cream to the skin to protect it
When should I see a GP?
- If your child is itchy or you’re not sure what is causing their rash
- If their skin dryness doesn’t improve with bath oil and moisturiser, it is important to see a GP who will consider treating them with medicated ointments. These treatments are safe and are the best way to get eczema under control and help your child feel comfortable
- Look out for signs of infected skin (very red, or yellow crusted areas) as this usually needs to be treated with antibiotics or special baths
Written by: Dr Kristen Matti
