Eczema (also known as atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis) is a very common skin condition affecting babies and children. It can appear as dry, rough, red, itchy and sometimes cracked skin and often fluctuates between flare-ups and calmer periods.
For many families, eczema impacts far more than skin. It affects sleep, mood, concentration and overall quality of life.
Eczema is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental and immune factors. Triggers may include:
The most common form of eczema in babies and children. It often appears as dry, red, itchy skin and may affect the face, scalp, arms, legs and/or trunk. Flare-ups can come and go and are often influenced by genetics, the skin barrier and environmental triggers.
Eczema that develops in babies, often within the first few months of life. It commonly affects the cheeks, scalp and outer limbs and can be particularly distressing due to constant itching and disrupted sleep.
Eczema that appears in the skin folds, such as behind the knees, inside elbows, around the neck, wrists or ankles. This type is more common as children grow older and the pattern of eczema changes.
Eczema affecting the face, including the cheeks, eyelids and around the mouth. Facial eczema can be especially concerning for parents and requires careful, appropriate treatment to protect delicate skin.
Eczema affecting the hands and fingers, often seen in older children. It may be associated with frequent hand washing, irritants or environmental exposure and can impact daily activities.
Eczema caused or worsened by direct contact with irritants or allergens, such as soaps, detergents, wipes or skincare products. Identifying and managing triggers is key to improving symptoms.
Eczema that has become infected with bacteria or viruses. Signs may include weeping, crusting, increased redness, pain or fever. Infected eczema requires prompt medical assessment and treatment.
A form of eczema commonly seen in infants (often known as cradle cap). It may affect the scalp, face, ears or skin folds and usually presents differently to atopic eczema.
Eczema that appears as round or coin-shaped patches on the skin. While less common in children, it can still occur and may be mistaken for fungal infections.
Some children have eczema as well as food and/or environmental allergies. 90% of food allergies occur through the skin so improving skin barrier function and managing eczema well is extremely important, particularly in infancy.
Although eczema cannot be cured, it can be managed very well when treatment is used correctly and consistently. By treating eczema well, we also help prevent food allergies.
At Children’s Eczema Care, we focus on:
