What is eczema? Eczema is an inflammation of the skin, which causes itching and redness. Eczema often runs in families and affects up to 20% of children under the age of 5 years. The following FAQ’s provide additional information.

Is there a cure for eczema?

There is not a cure for eczema, but the good news is that a large majority of children will grow out of it.  While your child is suffering from eczema, good management is the key to relieving the symptoms.

Which products should I apply?

The most important products in the treatment of eczema are emollients (the special moisturiser prescribed by your GP or Health Visitor). Emollients not only moisturise the skin, but also can restore the suppleness and elasticity of the skin, prevents water loss, stops irritants affecting the skin and can help to prevent itching and scratching.  I cannot stress enough how important the use of emollients are.  Use emollients as often as you can, particularly whilst your child’s eczema is bad – you can’t apply them too often – some parents will apply them up to 8 times a day.  I appreciate this can be difficult for working parents, so just apply them as often as possible.  Apply emollients to the whole of the body, not just the affected areas.  When your child’s eczema is under control, you can reduce this to 2-3 times per day. 

How should I apply steroid creams?

Steroid creams/ointments are usually applied twice a day for about a week (but follow the instructions as directed by your GP).  The strength of the steroid prescribed will vary depending upon the severity of the eczema, the age of your child and where the eczema is on the body.  When applying steroid creams/ointments, do not apply at the same time as the emollient.  Try leaving a gap of about 30 minutes; otherwise the emollient will dilute the strength of the steroid.  When applying the steroids, only put it on the red areas.  If you’re using steroid cream, apply a thin coating, if it’s a steroid ointment, there should be a fine film which glistens in the light.  When used appropriately steroid creams/ointments are safe to use.

Can the eczema become infected?

Most children with eczema will have bacteria on their skin called Staphylococcus aureus.  This means that that if the skin is broken because of scratching, they are very susceptible to infections.  To help prevent infections, bath your child every day. (But use a bath emollient to help prevent further drying of the skin).  Try to prevent your child from scratching by the use of emollients and antihistamines, and encourage them to rub rather than scratch, as it’s nails that do the worst damage to skin.  If you think your child’s skin is infected see your GP and he will prescribe either topical or oral antibiotics.

Can I take my child swimming?

Yes you can take your child swimming.  Apply an ointment emollient prior to swimming (be careful as they will be slippy).  Shower immediately after getting out of the pool and then apply more emollients.

Tips

• Don’t over heat your child and avoid woollen and synthetic fabrics, and bed linen should be cotton.

• Dust mite can aggravate eczema.  Vacuum regularly, wipe surfaces with a damp cloth, keep cuddly toys to minimum and when replacing carpets replace with laminate/wood or lino.

• Washing powders should be non-biological and avoid fabric conditioners altogether.

• Keep finger nails short.

• Ensure your house is well ventilated.

• And remember moisturise, moisturise, moisturise.