Eczema in children

Overview

Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) is a condition where the skin becomes dry, itchy, red, and inflamed. It is not contagious and often starts in early childhood.

Yes, eczema is one of the most common skin conditions in children. It affects millions of children worldwide.

Eczema mainly affects babies and young children, but it can continue into the teenage years and, less often, into adulthood. It is more likely if there is a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Dry, sensitive skin
• Intense itching, especially at night
• Red or brownish-gray patches on the skin
• Small, raised bumps that may ooze fluid when scratched
• Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin

Symptoms in children

• Rash often appears on the cheeks, scalp, arms, and legs in babies
• In toddlers and older children, the rash is more common in the creases of elbows and knees, and on wrists and ankles
• Fussiness or trouble sleeping because of itchiness
• Tendency to scratch, which can lead to skin damage and infection

Symptoms in older adults

• Eczema in older children and teenagers may look drier and thicker
• Areas affected include hands, eyelids, and the back of the knees and inside of elbows
• Itching can be very bothersome and may cause loss of sleep

Causes

Main causes

• A problem with the skin barrier that lets moisture out and irritants in
• An overactive immune system that reacts to triggers in the environment

Risk factors

• Family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever
• Exposure to dry, cold climates or low humidity
• Contact with irritants like harsh soaps, detergents, or certain fabrics (e.g., wool)
• Stress or illness – can trigger or worsen flares

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Signs of infection: increased redness, warmth, swelling, oozing, or fever
• Severe pain or discomfort that is not relieved by simple measures
• Eczema that covers a large area of the body or gets suddenly worse

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your child’s eczema is new, or you are unsure how to treat it
• If over-the-counter moisturisers and care routines are not helping
• For regular check-ups to adjust treatment as your child grows

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse will look at your child’s skin and ask about symptoms, family history, and possible triggers. Usually no special tests are needed.

Tests that may be done

• Patch tests – if contact dermatitis (a reaction to a specific substance) is suspected
• Skin prick tests or blood tests – sometimes used to check for allergies if they seem to trigger eczema

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will gently examine the affected areas and may ask about your child’s sleep, itchiness, and what treatments you have tried. They will work with you to create a care plan.

Treatment

Treatment aims to keep the skin moist, reduce itching and inflammation, and prevent flares. For most children, a combination of daily skincare and medication when needed works well.

Self-care at home

• Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturiser (emollient) at least twice a day, even when the skin looks good
• Use lukewarm water for baths, and add a bath oil or emollient
• Pat skin dry gently, do not rub
• Keep your child’s nails short and use cotton gloves at night to reduce scratching
• Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton; avoid wool and synthetics next to the skin
• Reduce scratching by distracting your child or using cool compresses on itchy areas

Medical treatments

Doctors may prescribe topical treatments applied to the skin, such as steroid creams or non-steroid creams, to reduce inflammation. These are used for short periods during flares. In some cases, oral antihistamines help with itching, or antibiotics if an infection develops. Always follow the doctor’s instructions on how and when to use these medicines.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a standard treatment for eczema. It is only considered in very rare cases of severe complications, such as a skin abscess that does not respond to other treatment.

Living with this condition

Living with eczema means having a consistent skincare routine and learning to avoid triggers. Many families find that once a good routine is in place, eczema becomes easier to manage and flares are less frequent.

Lifestyle tips

• Establish a daily bath-and-moisturise routine
• Keep the home environment free from dust, pet dander, and strong fragrances
• Use gentle, non-soap cleansers and avoid fabric softeners
• Teach your child not to scratch – use a cool cloth or a special anti-itch lotion
• Work with your school or nursery to make sure they understand your child’s needs

Diet and exercise

No special diet is needed unless a food allergy has been confirmed. A healthy, balanced diet is good for overall health. Exercise is fine – just bathe and moisturise afterwards to wash away sweat. Be aware that some environmental factors (like cold or heat) can trigger flares, so dress your child appropriately.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Eczema can affect a child’s self-esteem and cause frustration, embarrassment, or sleep problems. It is important to talk openly about feelings and seek support. If your child seems very anxious or sad, talk to a healthcare professional. For urgent mental health support, contact your local crisis team or call a helpline such as the Samaritans (116 123 in the UK).

Prevention

Eczema cannot always be prevented, especially if there is a family history. However, good skincare from birth – such as regular moisturising with simple emollients – may reduce the risk or delay the onset in some children.

Complications

If left untreated

• Repeated scratching can lead to skin infections (e.g., staph or herpes infections)
• Poor sleep from itching can affect mood, school performance, and growth
• Permanent skin changes like thickening or darkening of the skin in scratched areas
• Emotional distress and reduced quality of life

Long-term outlook

The outlook for children with eczema is generally very good. Many outgrow it by their teenage years, and for those who do not, symptoms often become milder. With consistent care and support from healthcare professionals, eczema can be well managed so that it does not stop your child from living a full and happy life.

Find support

International organisations

• International Eczema Council
• National Eczema Association (USA)

Local organisations

• NHS (UK) – Advice on eczema · United Kingdom
• Eczema Society of Canada · Canada

Helplines

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.