Eczema – Atopic Dermatitis

Definition and Causes

Eczema is a red, extremely itchy rash.  It often starts on the cheeks between 2 and 6 months of age.  Later it is most commonly found on the creases of elbows, wrists and knees.  Occasionally the neck, ankles and feet are involved.  Eczema may have flare-ups when there is contact with irritating substances such as soaps, lotions and certain foods.  If scratched, the skin will become raw and weepy.  This is a chronic condition that often improves before adolescence.

Home Care

Instructions for bathing and moisturizing:

• Bathe less frequently and for shorter periods of time (every few days for no more than 10 minutes).
• Use cool or lukewarm (not hot) water.
• Use an oil-based bar soap, not a detergent soap when washing your child. Examples are Dove Unscented, Neutrogena, Eucerin and Cetaphil Cleansing Lotion.
• After bathing, pat dry.  Do not rub the skin.
• Help trap the moisture in the skin after a bath by applying lotion or cream to the entire skin surface while still damp.  Some lubricating creams are Lubriderm, Nivea, Eucerin, Aquaphor and Cetaphil.
• Benadryl for intractable itching (call your provider for dosing if under 2 years old).

When to Call the Doctor

Call your child’s doctor if:

• The rash becomes worse, oozes, weeps, or is crusty.
• Your child develops chickenpox or is exposed to chickenpox.
• Your child develops other allergy symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing, or severe congestion.