How to Help a Child with Eczema Flare-ups

Learn practical steps to soothe your child's eczema flare-ups and prevent future outbreaks with gentle skincare routines.

  1. Keep skin moisturized daily. Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer to your child's entire body twice a day, even when their skin looks clear. Use products labeled as hypoallergenic or designed for sensitive skin. Apply moisturizer within three minutes of bathing while skin is still damp to lock in moisture. For severe dryness, consider using an ointment or cream rather than a lotion, as these are more effective at preventing water loss.
  2. Adjust bathing habits. Give your child lukewarm baths for no more than 10 minutes. Hot water strips natural oils from the skin and can worsen eczema. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser sparingly, focusing only on areas that really need cleaning like hands, feet, and diaper area. Pat skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing. Consider adding colloidal oatmeal or baking soda to bath water for extra soothing relief during flare-ups.
  3. Identify and avoid triggers. Keep a simple diary noting when flare-ups occur and what your child was exposed to beforehand. Common triggers include certain fabrics like wool, fragranced products, extreme temperatures, stress, and specific foods. Once you identify patterns, work to minimize exposure to these triggers. Wash new clothes before wearing and choose loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton.
  4. Manage itching and scratching. Keep your child's fingernails short and smooth to minimize damage from scratching. For babies and toddlers, consider using cotton mittens during sleep. Apply a cool, damp cloth to itchy areas for 5-10 minutes to provide temporary relief. Distract older children with activities when you notice them starting to scratch. If itching is severe, talk to your doctor about antihistamines or other treatments.
  5. Create a skin-friendly environment. Use a humidifier in your child's bedroom, especially during winter months when indoor air is dry. Wash clothes and bedding in fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent and skip fabric softeners. Keep your home at a comfortable, consistent temperature to avoid overheating, which can trigger itching. Choose gentle, fragrance-free household products for cleaning.