Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, is one of the most common chronic skin conditions seen in children. It usually begins during infancy or early childhood and is characterised by dry, itchy, inflamed skin that tends to flare up periodically. While the condition can be distressing for both children and parents, proper skincare and medical management can help control symptoms effectively.
What is Atopic Dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition caused by a combination of genetic, immune system, and environmental factors. Children with eczema often have a weakened skin barrier, which allows moisture to escape and irritants to penetrate the skin more easily. This leads to dryness, itching, and inflammation.
Many children with eczema also have a family history of allergies, asthma, or allergic rhinitis, which is known as the atopic triad.
Common Symptoms of Eczema in Children
The symptoms of atopic dermatitis may vary depending on the child’s age, but common signs include:
Persistent itching (pruritus), often worse at night
Dry, rough skin
Red or inflamed patches
Skin thickening due to chronic scratching
Small bumps that may ooze or crust during flare-ups
In infants, eczema commonly affects the face, scalp, and outer arms or legs. In older children, it often appears in skin folds such as the elbows, behind the knees, wrists, and neck.
Triggers That Can Worsen Eczema
Eczema tends to fluctuate with periods of improvement and flare-ups. Several environmental and lifestyle factors can trigger these flares, including:
Hot weather and excessive sweating
Harsh soaps, detergents, or fragranced skincare products
Dust mites and environmental allergens
Wool or synthetic clothing
Stress and illness
Identifying and avoiding triggers is an important part of eczema management in children.
Importance of Moisturising
Regular moisturising is the foundation of eczema treatment. Thick moisturisers help restore the skin barrier and reduce dryness and itching. Dermatologists usually recommend applying moisturiser multiple times daily, especially immediately after bathing.
Using gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and limiting long hot showers can also help prevent skin dryness.
Medical Treatment for Atopic Dermatitis
When moisturisers alone are not enough, a dermatologist may prescribe medicated treatments to control inflammation and itching. These may include:
Topical corticosteroid creams or ointments
Topical calcineurin inhibitors for sensitive areas
Anti-itch medications
Antibiotics if secondary infection occurs
For severe or persistent eczema, specialised therapies may be required.
Preventing Skin Infections
Children with eczema are more prone to bacterial skin infections because scratching can damage the skin barrier. Keeping the child’s nails short, maintaining proper skin care, and seeking early treatment for flare-ups can reduce infection risk.
When to Consult a Dermatologist
Parents should seek medical advice if:
The child has severe itching affecting sleep
The rash is spreading or worsening
Over-the-counter moisturisers are not helping
Signs of infection appear (pus, pain, or swelling)
A dermatologist can diagnose eczema accurately and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to the child’s skin type and triggers.
Living with Childhood Eczema
Although eczema can be chronic, many children experience improvement as they grow older. With proper skin care routines, trigger avoidance, and medical guidance, most children can live comfortably without frequent flare-ups.
Early treatment and consistent skin care are key to keeping atopic dermatitis under control and maintaining healthy skin in children.
For expert care and personalised treatment for eczema and other skin conditions in children, consult Dr. Neha Athalye (MD Dermatology) at DermcareMD Skin & Hair Clinic, a trusted dermatology clinic in Kothrud, Pune.
