Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that commonly affects babies and children. It can appear as dry, red, itchy, cracked, or inflamed 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.
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, or body. 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.
While eczema can usually be managed effectively with the right treatment and support, there are times when urgent medical attention is required.
Please seek prompt medical care if your child has:
Signs of skin infection (weeping, crusting, oozing, or rapidly worsening redness)
Increasing pain, swelling, or warmth of the skin
Fever or signs of being unwell
Sudden worsening of eczema that does not respond to treatment
Concern for eczema herpeticum or other serious infection
If you are unsure about whether your child needs urgent care, it is always safest to seek medical advice promptly through your GP, local emergency department, or emergency services.
Children’s Eczema Care is here to support families with ongoing management and education, but urgent concerns should be assessed immediately by appropriate medical services.
With the right assessment, treatment plan, and education, eczema can be managed effectively and safely.
