Help your kids beat the winter itch!

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t’s officially winter! While we know that doesn’t mean snow for us here in The Bahamas, every year, countless children experience a white Christmas in the form of dry, ashy, itchy skin associated with atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema. Eczema is a hereditary and chronic skin condition and while it can be present any time of year, it is particularly awful in the dry, intermittently cold months of Bahamian winter. Unfortunately, many parents watch their children suffer in silence (or even do things that exacerbate the condition) because they don’t have a true understanding of what eczema is or what they can do to provide relief.

Eczema is most commonly seen in infants or very young children, often beginning in infancy and is most commonly seen before age five. The dry, itchy rash is the result of a complex interplay between genetics and the environment and tends to run in families that have a predisposition to other atopic conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergies). The skin of people with eczema has a defective lipid layer, which leaves skin dry and more sensitive to allergens like perfumes and dyes. The combination of this defective lipid layer and the hyperactive immune systems of people with atopy sets them up for misery if not properly managed.

So, why does eczema seem worse in winter? Dry air combined with indoor heating systems can be extremely drying for skin. Eczema flares up because the skin can’t stay moist on its own. Flare-ups can also be caused by wearing too many layers of clothing, taking hot baths, or using too many bed coverings. These are all things people are more likely to do during the cold winter months.

While there’s no known cure for eczema, the occurrence of flare-ups can be reduced by following preventive measures.

Avoid triggers

The best way to prevent an eczema flare-up is to avoid triggers when possible. These include any known allergens like perfumes and pet dander as well as sensitivities to chemicals or fabrics like wool.

Skip hot baths

Because heat can cause skin to dry out, very hot baths should be avoided in winter. Instead, use warm water. Keep skin moist while bathing, by adding some moisturizing products like oatmeal and oils to the water. Limit time in the bath as well. Children with eczema should only take baths that are five to 10 minutes long.

After a bath or shower, be careful to avoid rubbing skin with a towel. Pat skin dry instead. Patting skin dry leaves a little moisture on the skin.

Use a gentle soap

With eczema, skin is very sensitive. Avoid soaps and other bath products with unwanted added ingredients. Look for moisturizing soaps that are fragrance, dye, and alcohol-free. Skip bubble baths altogether.

Don’t forget to avoid harsh soaps in laundry detergents as well. Look for detergents that are formulated for sensitive skin.

Try a thick moisturizer

Kids with eczema have skin that requires a lot of moisturizing. Use thick moisturizers and apply them immediately after bathing or showering. Petroleum jelly is a good option as lotions may not be as effective in winter. Be sure your child’s skin has moisturizer applied multiple times per day.

Sometimes, despite the best preventative measures, flare-ups can occur. If your child develops a painful, itchy flare-up, talk to your pediatrician about treatment options. Remember, we are here to help you raise happy and healthy kids.

• Dr. Tamarra Moss is a pediatrician committed to helping you raise happy and healthy kids. You can find her at Dr. Carlos Thomas & Pediatric Associates in Nassau, Lucayan Medical Center in Grand Bahama, or on Instagram @mykidsdoc242.

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source https://thenassauguardian.com/help-your-kids-beat-the-winter-itch/