Childhood Eczema: Understanding the Itch and Finding the Right Support
Childhood eczema, medically known as atopic dermatitis, is one of the most common chronic skin conditions affecting children. It causes dry, inflamed and itchy skin that can significantly impact sleep, comfort and daily life for both children and parents. While eczema is not contagious and cannot currently be cured, it can be effectively managed with the right medical guidance and skincare routine.
Parents often feel overwhelmed when trying to manage eczema flares, but understanding the condition – and knowing when specialist help is available – can make a meaningful difference.
Dr Helen understands first-hand how challenging eczema can be for both children and parents. Having experienced eczema herself as a child, and now managing it with her own children, she appreciates how uncomfortable and distressing the condition can feel. This personal insight, alongside her medical training in allergies, led Dr Helen to develop a particular clinical interest in eczema, helping families find practical and effective ways to manage the condition.
What Causes Childhood Eczema?
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that develops due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The skin barrier in children with eczema does not function as effectively as it should, allowing moisture to escape and irritants to enter the skin more easily.
The exact cause can vary depending on the age at which eczema first appears. In many cases, children with eczema also have a personal or family history of asthma, hay fever, or allergies, which are part of what doctors call the atopic triad.
There is also evidence of a connection between eczema and:
- Environmental allergies, such as pollen or dust mites
- Food allergies, particularly in younger children
- Irritants, including soaps, fragrances and certain fabrics
Because triggers vary from child to child, careful observation and professional guidance are often needed to identify what may be causing flare-ups.
Do Children Grow Out of Eczema?
One of the most common questions parents ask is whether their child will outgrow eczema.
The answer is sometimes. Many children see a significant improvement in their symptoms as they grow older. By around seven years of age, eczema often becomes easier to manage and may appear less frequently.
However, eczema is still considered a chronic condition, and flare-ups can occur later in life, particularly during periods of stress, illness, or environmental changes.
Everyday Skincare for Children with Eczema
Managing eczema successfully often relies on consistent daily skincare. Avoiding irritants and protecting the skin barrier are essential.
Traditional soaps can be very irritating for eczema-prone skin. Instead, dermatologists recommend soap substitutes or gentle washes such as:
- QV Gentle Wash
- Aveeno products
Some emollient cleansers like Dermol 500 may be used short-term but are generally not recommended as a long-term solution.
Bathing Tips
Bathing can either soothe or worsen eczema depending on how it is done.
Helpful recommendations include:
- Use warm or tepid water, not hot
- Keep baths short
- Add a greasy moisturiser or bath emollient to the water to reduce drying
Immediately after bathing, applying a moisturiser helps lock hydration into the skin.
Choosing Sunscreen for Children with Eczema
Sun protection is still important for children with eczema, but some products can irritate sensitive skin.
Dermatologists recommend choosing sunscreens that are:
- Fragrance-free
- Broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection
Interestingly, supermarket own-brand sunscreens are often suitable and cost-effective. Some dermatologist-recommended brands include Altruist, La Roche-Posay Anthelios, UltraSun,and Eucerin, although these may be more expensive.
Managing Night-Time Itching
Night-time itching can be particularly difficult for children with eczema and may disrupt sleep for the whole family.
Simple environmental adjustments can help reduce irritation:
- Keep the bedroom cool
- Use bamboo sheets or silk pillowcases, which are gentle on the skin
- Consider scratch-sleeve pyjamas to prevent skin damage during sleep
- Use fans or dehumidifiers if the room becomes warm or humid
Reducing overheating can significantly minimise itching episodes overnight.
Medical Treatments for Eczema
When eczema becomes inflamed, medical treatments may be required to control flare-ups.
Doctors often prescribe topical corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation and itching. These are used at different strengths depending on the severity of eczema.
Examples include:
- Low strength: Hydrocortisone
- Moderate strength: Eumovate (Clobetasone)
- Mild–moderate: Betnovate 0.025%
- Potent: Betnovate 0.1%, Elocon or Mometasone
- Very potent (rarely used in children): Dermovate
Parents sometimes worry about steroid creams, but when used correctly and under medical guidance, they are considered safe and highly effective.
After inflammation settles, doctors may recommend calcineurin inhibitors, such as Protopic or Elidel, which help maintain control and prevent further flare-ups.
Other Factors That Can Affect Itching
Interestingly, research shows that low ferritin (iron levels) can sometimes contribute to itching. Ensuring children have an iron-rich diet or taking well-tolerated chewable multivitamins may support overall skin health.
Parents should also be cautious with hand gels. Alcohol-based sanitiser can irritate eczema on the hands, although it may still be preferable to excessive handwashing if eczema is not present in that area.
When to Seek Specialist Help
While many mild cases can be managed with moisturisers and occasional treatment, some children experience persistent or severe eczema that requires specialist care.
This is where access to a paediatric dermatology specialist can be invaluable.
At Dr Helen Medical, families have access to a paediatric dermatologist who specialises in childhood skin conditions, including eczema. Specialist assessment can help identify triggers, optimise treatment plans and provide reassurance for parents navigating a challenging condition.
Importantly, parents can book an appointment without the long waiting lists often associated with dermatology referrals, allowing children to receive expert care sooner.
Supporting Children with Eczema
Eczema can be frustrating, uncomfortable and emotionally challenging for children (and parents). However, with the right skincare routine, medical support and early specialist input, most children can achieve excellent symptom control and live comfortably.
If your child is struggling with eczema or persistent skin irritation, seeking professional advice can make a real difference – not just in managing the condition, but in improving sleep, confidence and overall wellbeing.
For parents looking for expert guidance, the paediatric dermatology team at Dr Helen Medical in Ringwood offers access to specialist care that can help families move toward long-term skin health.
To book an appointment for your child with Dr Helen, or one of her specialist team, call 01202 022956 or book online.
Quick Fire Eczema FAQs
- What is childhood eczema?
Childhood eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. It commonly develops in babies and young children and can appear on the face, elbows, knees, hands and neck. Although eczema cannot be cured, it can usually be managed effectively with the right skincare routine and medical treatment.
- What causes eczema in children?
Eczema is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Children with eczema often have a weakened skin barrier that allows moisture to escape and irritants to penetrate the skin. Triggers can include environmental allergens such as pollen or dust mites, certain soaps or fragrances, temperature changes and sometimes food allergies.
- Do children grow out of eczema?
Some children do see significant improvement in their eczema as they grow older. Many find that symptoms become easier to manage by around seven years of age, although flare-ups can still occur during stressful periods, illness or seasonal changes. For others, eczema may continue into adolescence or adulthood but often becomes less severe.
- What does childhood eczema look like?
Childhood eczema usually appears as dry, red, inflamed patches of skin that can be very itchy. In babies it often affects the cheeks, scalp and outer limbs, while in older children it commonly appears in the creases of the elbows, behind the knees, on the wrists or around the neck. The skin may sometimes crack, ooze or become thickened after repeated scratching.
- What are the most common eczema triggers in children?
Eczema triggers vary between children but commonly include:
- Soaps, fragrances and harsh skincare products
- Wool or synthetic clothing
- Dust mites or pollen
- Heat, sweating or sudden temperature changes
- Stress or illness
- Certain foods in children with allergies
Identifying and avoiding triggers is often an important part of managing eczema.
- What are the best skincare products for children with eczema?
Children with eczema should use gentle, fragrance-free products designed for sensitive skin. Soap substitutes and mild cleansers such as QV Gentle Wash or Aveeno products are commonly recommended. Regular use of moisturisers (emollients) is essential to help maintain the skin barrier and prevent dryness.
- How often should you moisturise a child with eczema?
Children with eczema should usually be moisturised at least two to three times per day, and sometimes more frequently during flare-ups. Emollients help restore the skin barrier and prevent dryness, which can reduce itching and irritation. Moisturiser should always be applied after bathing and whenever the skin looks dry.
- Are steroid creams safe for children with eczema?
Topical corticosteroids are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation during eczema flare-ups. When used correctly and under medical supervision, they are considered safe and very effective. Doctors may prescribe different strengths depending on the severity of the eczema, starting with mild options such as hydrocortisone.
- Why does eczema itch more at night?
Many children experience worse itching at night due to body temperature changes and increased skin dryness. A warm bedroom can also make itching worse. Keeping the room cool, using breathable bedding such as bamboo or silk, and maintaining a good moisturising routine can help reduce night-time discomfort.
- Can allergies make eczema worse?
Yes, eczema is often associated with environmental allergies and food allergies. Some children with eczema may also develop hay fever or asthma. Identifying potential triggers with the help of a medical professional can help reduce flare-ups and improve symptom control.
- What sunscreen is best for children with eczema?
Children with eczema should use fragrance-free, broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Some supermarket own-brand sunscreens can work well, while dermatologist-recommended brands include Altruist, La Roche-Posay Anthelios, UltraSun and Eucerin.
- Can diet affect eczema in children?
Diet can sometimes influence eczema symptoms. In some cases, food allergies or sensitivities may contribute to flare-ups. Additionally, low iron levels (low ferritin) can sometimes worsen itching. Ensuring children eat a balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods may help support overall skin health.
- Can stress make eczema worse in children?
Yes, stress can trigger or worsen eczema flare-ups. Emotional stress, illness, lack of sleep or changes in routine can increase inflammation in the body and make itching worse. Helping children maintain good sleep habits, a consistent routine and effective eczema management can reduce stress-related flares.
- Is eczema contagious?
No, eczema is not contagious. It cannot be passed from one child to another through contact, sharing toys or close interaction. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory condition related to genetics, immune responses and environmental triggers.
- When should a child see a paediatric dermatologist for eczema?
If eczema is severe, persistent, frequently infected or not responding to standard treatments, it may be helpful to see a specialist. A paediatric dermatologist can provide a detailed assessment, identify triggers and develop a personalised treatment plan to better control the condition.
If you need extra support for your child with eczema you can book an appointment with Dr Helen, or one of her specialist team, by calling 01202 022956.