Eczema

Eczema = Dermatitis = Inflammation of the Skin

Dermatitis and eczema are both Greek words meaning inflammation of the skin. In cases of eczema and dermatitis can result in skin flare-ups and become one or all of the following: dry, scaly, itchy, red and hot. A recent report by the British Journal of Dermatology highlighted the serious emotional effects children suffer as a result of eczema.

The Cause?

There are many causes for this but as a general rule the causes can be divided into external and internal. Eczema appears between 3 and 12 months of age and may persist into the teens but most children get better earlier than this.

The most common places where eczema occurs are body-flexing points such as elbows, knees, wrists, ankles and around the neck. The face and scalp may be affected and in very severe cases the whole body can be affected by it. If you are worried your child has eczema, bring your child to your GP.

How can you reduce skin flare-ups?

1. Cleanse the body with non-irritating bubble baths, shower gels and washes
2. Shampoo with non-irritating, gentle shampoos and conditioners. Many regular shampoos and conditioners contain harsh and irritating ingredients which can cause the skin to flare-up as they run off the body
3. Rehydrate the skin with intensive moisturisers, body lotions and body oils to soothe the skin and protect the skin from flare-ups

Clothing

Synthetic fabrics can aggravate eczema leaving the skin itchy and very irritated. Underwear, nightwear and daily clothing should be 100% cotton in order to reduce irritation and reduce the itch of eczema. 100% cotton clothing allows the skin to breath, helps regulate the temperature of the skin and is more comfortable against the skin.

Night time can be the most exhausting time of the day for both parents and children with eczema as many regular nightwear contain synthetic materials, irritating seams and labels and are decorated with harsh paintwork and dyes.  In order to reduce the itch, dress babies and children in 100% cotton nightwear and underwear to reduce the irritation. Cotton mittens and socks can also help reduce the child's ability to scratch the skin during the night which should help reduce skin weeping, bleeding and broken skin. Check out our Clothing Checklist for tips on how to reduce the itch of eczema.

For more information on chemicals used in skincare products, visit our chemicals page. Check out the Greenpeace Chemical Home Report which assesses the effects of these ingredients on our bodies and our health.