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What Causes Eczema in children?

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Children with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies are more likely to develop eczema. Environmental triggers such as irritants (soaps, detergents, and disinfectants), allergens (pollen, pet dander, and mold), and climate changes can also cause eczema flare-ups in children. Additionally, stress, hormonal changes, and certain foods can trigger eczema symptoms.

The top 3 causes of Atopic Dermatitis

Genetics

Research has shown that people with a family history of eczema are more likely to develop the condition themselves. Certain genes can make people more susceptible to developing eczema by affecting the skin's ability to retain moisture and protect against irritants.

Environmental Triggers

Environmental triggers can cause flare-ups or worsen existing symptoms. Common triggers include exposure to allergens like dust mites pollen, changes in temperature or humidity, exposure to irritants and stress.

Immune System Dysfunction

People with eczema have an overactive immune system that responds to triggers in the environment by producing inflammation in the skin. This inflammation leads to redness, itchiness, and dryness.

Eczema in Infants

In the first six months of a baby’s life, eczema typically appears on the face, cheeks, chin, forehead, and scalp. Skin will look very red and bumpy. Infants can also experience seborrheic dermatitis (also known as cradle cap). The cradle cap appears as scaly, crusty, red patches on the scalp and can last up until a child is twelve months old.

Eczema in Babies

From six-twelve months eczema begins to appear on areas of baby’s skin that are in contact with irritating surfaces (scratchy rugs) while they are learning to crawl. Baby eczema rashes can crust over and have a yellowish tint on the skin.

Eczema in Toddlers

From age five and up, childhood eczema typically appears where adult eczema occurs most frequently, the elbows and knees. Red, itchy, scaly patches will develop on the child’s skin. Remember that about 70% of people experience eczema at some point in their life and it is easily treatable.

Eczema in Children

What are the symptoms of Eczema?

The most visible and common symptoms of atopic dermatitis

Itching

One of the most common symptoms of atopic dermatitis is intense itching, which can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities and sleep

Rash

Eczema causes a red, scaly rash that may appear on different parts of the body, such as the face, neck, hands, feet, or inside the elbows or knees.

Dryness

People with eczema have very dry skin that is prone to cracking and flaking which is caused to lack of moisture and a poor skin barrier.

Inflammation

Inflammation is a hallmark feature of atopic dermatitis and can cause swelling, redness, and tenderness in affected areas.

Is eczema always severe?

Not at all! The severity of eczema can vary from person to person, and even from one flare-up to another in the same person. It is also possible for a person to have different levels of severity in different areas of their body.

MILD

Mild eczema is characterized by dry and itchy skin with occasional redness. The affected area may be slightly raised, and the skin may be rough to the touch. Mild eczema can often be managed with over-the-counter moisturizers and topical creams.

MODERATE

Moderate eczema is characterized by more widespread and intense symptoms. The affected area may be more red and inflamed, and the skin may be thicker and more scaly. Moderate eczema can often be managed with prescription-strength topical creams and ointments.

SEVERE

Severe eczema is characterized by very intense symptoms that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. The affected area may be extremely itchy, painful, and swollen, with cracked and bleeding skin. Severe eczema may require treatment with oral medications or biologic drugs