Eczema in Children: What Parents Should Know

If your child is constantly scratching and their skin always seems dry or irritated, you’re not alone—eczema affects 1 in 5 kids. Childhood eczema is common and manageable, though it can be stressful for both children and their parents.

In this article, we’ll cover what childhood eczema looks like, what causes it, how to treat it, and how to support your child both physically and emotionally. Eczema, particularly atopic dermatitis (AD), is a widespread skin condition known for causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It represents a significant burden for many families, but there are ways to make life easier.

What Does Eczema Look Like in Children?

The appearance of eczema in children can vary depending on age and the stage of a flare-up. Generally, you’ll notice dry, itchy, red patches that may ooze or crust during flare-ups. These patches appear in different areas depending on your child’s age:

• Infants: Often on the cheeks, scalp, and the outer surfaces of the arms and legs.
• Toddlers & older children: Common in the folds of the elbows and knees, and on the neck, wrists, and ankles.

Chronic scratching may lead to thickened (lichenified) or darkened skin. In some cases, weeping eczema, where fluid oozes from the skin, can develop.

Side Note: On darker skin tones, eczema may look gray, brown, or purple rather than red. This variation can sometimes lead to delays in diagnosis. Learn more in our article: How Eczema Looks on Different Skin Tones.

What Causes Eczema in Kids?

The exact cause of eczema isn’t fully understood, but several contributing factors are widely recognized:

• Genetics: If you or close relatives have eczema, asthma, hay fever, or other allergies, your child is more likely to develop it.
• Weakened skin barrier: In eczema, the skin doesn’t hold in moisture well and is more vulnerable to irritants and allergens.
• Immune system overreaction: The body’s immune system may overreact to substances that typically wouldn’t cause a problem.
• Environmental triggers: Dry air, harsh soaps, certain fabrics, and allergens like pollen or dust can all make symptoms worse.

To learn more about eczema’s root causes, check out: What Causes Eczema? A Scientific Overview and The Role of Genetics in Eczema (And Why It Runs in Families).

Is It Allergies?

Eczema and allergies are closely linked. Many children with eczema have or will develop food allergies. Atopic dermatitis is often the first step in the “atopic march”, which can include asthma and allergic rhinitis.

While allergies can trigger flare-ups, eczema itself isn’t an allergy. Identifying specific triggers—sometimes through allergy or patch testing—can help in managing symptoms. Learn more in:
Patch Testing 101: What It Is, Who Needs It, and What to Expect and
Is Eczema an Allergy, a Disease, or a Skin Condition?.

Everyday Triggers to Watch For

Being aware of common eczema triggers can help reduce flare-ups:

• Irritants: Soaps, detergents, fragrances, bubble baths, certain fabrics (like wool or synthetics), and even sweat.
• Allergens: Dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold, and certain foods.
• Temperature extremes: Hot or cold weather, especially when humidity is low.
• Stress: Emotional stress can contribute to flare-ups.
• Infections: Bacterial or viral skin infections may worsen eczema.
• Swimming pools: Chlorine can irritate some children’s skin.

Side Note: Identifying your child’s triggers may take time. Keeping a diary of flare-ups and exposures can be a helpful tool.

You can dive deeper into common triggers in:
Contact Dermatitis: Top 10 Triggers,
Atopic Dermatitis: Top 10 Triggers, and
Understanding Trigger Categories: Irritants, Allergens, and More.

How to Help Your Child Feel Better

Managing eczema in children usually involves relieving itching and inflammation, moisturizing the skin, and avoiding triggers.

• Moisturize regularly: Use thick, fragrance-free moisturizers several times a day—especially after bathing.
• Gentle bathing: Bathe with lukewarm water and mild, unscented cleansers. Pat the skin dry and moisturize right away.
• Topical medications: Doctors may prescribe topical corticosteroids or non-steroid creams to control flare-ups.
• Antihistamines: These can relieve itching, especially at night.
• Avoid scratching: Keep nails short and use cotton gloves at night if needed.
• Trigger management: Identify and avoid personal irritants or allergens.
• Wet-wrap therapy: This can be especially helpful for severe eczema under a doctor’s supervision.

For a deeper look at treatment options, see:
Most Common Medications Prescribed for Dermatitis and
Natural Remedies and Alternative Therapies for Eczema: What Works and What Doesn’t.

How Eczema Affects Your Child Emotionally

Eczema isn’t just a skin condition—it can impact your child’s well-being in other ways:

• Itching can interfere with sleep, focus, and mood.
• Children may feel self-conscious or anxious about their skin.
• A skincare routine can help them feel a sense of control and boost confidence.

To understand more about this aspect, explore:
The Emotional Toll of Eczema: Anxiety, Depression, and Coping and
How Eczema Affects Daily Life and Social Interactions.

When to See a Doctor

Consult your child’s doctor if:

• Symptoms don’t improve with home care.
• The skin is cracked, bleeding, or looks infected.
• Flare-ups are frequent, painful, or disrupt sleep.
• You’re unsure about the diagnosis or treatment plan.

A pediatrician or pediatric dermatologist can offer personalized care and may recommend allergy testing or specialized treatments.

Takeaway: You’ve Got This—And So Does Your Child

Childhood eczema can be challenging—but it’s also very manageable. By understanding what eczema looks like, what triggers it, and how to treat it, you’re giving your child the tools they need to thrive.

Supporting their skin and their emotional well-being makes a lasting difference.

Want to get a solid foundation on eczema? Start here What Is Eczema? (And What It Isn’t)

Or continue with Our Guide to the Different Types of Dermatitis to better understand how eczema fits into the broader picture.