As Fall and Winter approach, the cold air and indoor heating can rob children’s skin of it’s natural moisture, as well as worsen skin conditions like eczema. Eczema can be a very uncomfortable condition for children, and when treated poorly children are at increased risk for bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Below are a few ways to help lock in the moisture this cold weather season.
Bath your child daily in warm water with a mild, fragrance-free soap like Dove for Sensitive Skin or Cetaphil. Gently pat your child’s skin dry and apply a rich moisturizer like petroleum jelly or a thick moisturizing cream within three minutes of bathing to properly seal in the moisture. Reapply moisturizer as needed throughout the day.
Dress your child in cotton clothing, avoiding fabrics that can irritate the skin such as wool or acrylic fabrics.
Keep your child’s nails trimmed short and use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free laundry detergent like All-Free, Tide-Free, or Cheer-Free.
If your child’s skin remains dry, irritated and itchy in spite of these recommendations, contact your dermatologist for further consultation.