Tips & Tricks for Dealing With Eczema This Winter Season

Let’s face it: eczema sucks! While some kids may have triggers (allergies, clothes, seasonal changes, etc.), others may just be born with a predisposition for it. It normally presents in kids younger than 5 years old and can be associated with asthma.

Eczema can be a tricky thing to deal with, especially if you do not stay on top of it, so here are some tips and tricks to get you through this winter:

Bathe Every Day

Bathing every day can help you get into a routine of moisturizing.  It also helps give the skin a little bit love.  Make sure you are using lukewarm water- not hot- and a gentle cleanse, unscented soap that will not irritate your little one’s skin. Do not use harsh scrubbing tools. You can add oatmeal to the bath to help soothe the skin.

There are “special baths” that include baking soda, vinegar, and even bleach.  Always check with your provider prior to doing any of these to make sure it is an appropriate intervention for your child.

Moisturize, Moisturize, MOISTURIZE

You want to keep the moisture in the skin as much as you can, in fact, do not even dry off after baths.  This is a method called “soak & seal”.  Simply lather that baby up with a thick emollient such as Aquaphor or Eucerin which are available over-the-counter without a prescription. If you DO have a prescription lotion, use it before your apply moisturizer but wait a few minutes prior to application.

Wet Soaks

If there is an area on your kiddo that is especially worrisome or beginning to look red or warm, your provider may recommend wet bandages or dressings.  This is usually done with prescription steroid cream and lots of patience. You can even do this by putting on humid pajamas on at night.

Avoid Scratchy Clothing

We get it, it’s cold and you still want your kids to look cute.  BUT keep in mind that name brand sweater may have some material (I am looking at you wool sweaters!) that could potentially irritate the skin. Also, make sure your kid does not get too hot as that can irritate the skin also.

Get A Humidifier

Do you sense a theme here?  You want to avoid all of the dryness and keep all of the moisture. Winter is especially difficult so get a humidifier to put in your kiddo’s room.  It’s a cheap and effective investment to avoid dry skin.

Remember: I am not your medical provider, and everything I tell you needs to align with the plan you and your provider came up with.  Always come ready to ask questions at appointments, your providers love you for it!

Do you have any tips or tricks to share?

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