How to soothe eczema in babies and children
Atopic eczema in babies and children, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common condition that generally appears before the age of 1. The cause? Dysfunction of the skin barrier, leading to xerosis and chronic inflammation. The skin is less well protected, more sensitive to its environment and reacts accordingly. Symptoms include xerosis, red plaques on the folds of the elbows and knees, cheeks, neck, eyelids and torso. And above all, severe itching that's difficult to tolerate. Following a few simple steps can help your child live better with eczema.
Our tips for soothing atopic skin
Cleanse
gently
Why?
So as not to damage skin that is already fragile and sensitive.
How?
- Use a cleansing product that is suitable for dry atopic skin to minimize the risk of allergic reactions (soap-free, physiological pH 5.5). This type of product has lipid-replenishing and anti-inflammatory action.
- Short showers or baths (no more than 5 minutes) and not too hot (35°c max), as heat reactivates inflammation.
- Rinse off the cleansing product thoroughly.
- Pat skin dry, without rubbing.
Apply
a topical corticosteroid prescribed by a doctor
Why?
To relieve skin inflammation and itching during flare-ups
How?
Apply the topical corticosteroid as soon as the eczema flare-up begins, directly on the lesions.
Nourish
skin daily
Why?
To reduce skin xerosis, soothe itching and space out peaks of irritation and severe dryness, while reducing redness
How?
- Apply an emollient cream that is suitable for atopic skin.
- Choose the texture according to the intensity of skin dryness, the time of application or the season: lotion, cream, balm or spray when you're in a hurry.
- Apply this emollient treatment 1-2 times a day, every day (even between flare-ups). Ideally after showering.
- Warm the product between your hands, then apply it gently in broad strokes, without rubbing, to skin that is still slightly damp.
Reduce
itching
Why?
While scratching provides immediate relief, it increases itching by reactivating red plaques and irritation, not to mention the risk of infection if hands or nails are dirty.
How?
- Opt for loose-fitting clothing to limit chafing.
- Avoid contact with potentially allergenic substances such as dust mites by using an anti-dust mite mattress cover and getting rid of carpets.
- Don't cover your child up too much at night, and keep room temperature between 18°C and 20°C.
- Cold is extremely soothing and acts as a form of anesthetic: keep emollient care products in the fridge for more intense soothing when you apply them, or place a bag of frozen peas on the itchy area.
- Keep their hands busy with a stress ball, for example, or, better still, with a scratch substitute such as a Velcro strip placed on an item of clothing, or on a cuddly toy for younger children.
- Keep them busy to distract their attention from the itching: a short relaxation or sports session, listening to their favorite music, or even a session with a relaxation therapist when flare-ups are frequent.
- Cut or file their fingernails, to avoid further damage to their skin, which is already fragile.
Related products
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