Does your child have eczema?
Even though there’s no cure for eczema, don’t fret!
There are ways to manage the symptoms and help your child live a happy and healthy life.
Eczema usually leads to skin irritation or inflammation, and your child also tends to have other allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever.
The hallmark of eczema is itchy skin.
Your child’s skin may also be red, dry, cracked or leathery.
Here are some tips to manage eczema in your child:
Look for moisturisers (emollient plus) containing active ingredients (e.g. licochalcone A and menthoxypropanediol) that can ease inflammation and rehydrate the skin.
Look for ingredients that can help repair the skin, such as ceramides, omega-6 fatty acids, colloidal oatmeal and prebiotic moisturisers.
Avoid products containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).
Also, look for a moisturiser that is dye-free and fragrance- free – do note that those labelled “unscented” may still contain fragrance.
Most importantly, choose a moisturiser that works for your child and put it on several times a day, including right after your child has a bath or shower.
Rough or coarse fabrics can irritate the skin, so avoid scratchy materials such as wool.
Instead, opt for light and breathable fabrics like cotton for clothing and bedding.
This removes any allergens present.
However, be mindful that certain detergents can also trigger eczema.
Always use mild washing products.
This prevents skin damage due to scratching.
Another option is for your child to wear gloves.
And use a mild cleanser instead of soaps.
Fragrance may trigger flare-ups.
Opt for cleansers with a lower pH level, which contain ingredients that help relieve eczema, e.g. omega-6 or -3 fatty acids.
Eczema is a long-term condition, but children will usually outgrow it during their schooling years.
On top of the home remedies suggested here, it is also important to consult a healthcare professional in order to work on a proper treatment plan for your little one.
Dr Sabeera Begum is a consultant paediatric dermatologist. This article is courtesy of the Malaysian Paediatric Association’s Positive Parenting programme in collaboration with expert partners. For further information, please email starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
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