Eczema commonly affects infants and is characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin. Also known as Atopic dermatitis (AD), the skin condition can hit people of any age, but it's most prevalent in babies and young kids. While factors such as allergens (pet dander, saliva, dirt, pollen) and fragrance items can aggravate this sensitive skin condition, environmental factors like extreme weather situations and seasonal changes can significantly influence the severity and frequency of flare-ups. Dr. Pallab Chattopadhyay, consultant pediatrician-teacher, DNB (Pediatrics), Apollo Multispeciality Hospital, Kolkata, guides on how to tackle eczema in kids during winter months.
5 Steps To Combat Eczema in Kids During Winters
"During winter, the combination of cold temperatures and low humidity often exacerbates atopic dermatitis symptoms," says Dr. Chattopadhyay.
He explains that in such months, the air is dry and since the water content of the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) reacts according to the surrounding humidity, your skin also becomes parched. Children anyway have 30% thinner skin than adults and those with eczema have a damaged skin barrier, resulting in increased dryness and irritation.
So, managing the skin condition in such kids often requires a comprehensive approach, shares Dr. Chattopadhyay. And, these are the five steps to do the same:
1) Use Oat-based Moisturizers Regularly
Known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, colloidal oatmeal (a special type of oatmeal aimed to better your skin) contains a host of vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a powerful ingredient for managing atopic dermatitis. Oat-based moisturizers can improve the quality of life of patients with eczema-prone skin by 72%, as per studies. Regular application of gentle, fragrance-free hypoallergenic moisturizers specifically formulated for sensitive skin is crucial and a first line of defence to protect the baby’s skin. Apply the moisturizer at least twice daily and reapply after bath time or whenever the skin appears dry.
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2) Keep Bathtime Short and Use Lukewarm Water
When bathing a baby, keep the bathtime short with lukewarm water to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils. Hot baths and harsh soaps should also be avoided; instead, opt for gentle, moisturizing cleansers rich in skin-friendly ingredients.
3) Choose Soft Breathable Fabrics
During winter, parents tend to cover the baby in many layers using heavy woollens. However, woollens is a common skin irritant. Always choose soft, breathable fabrics even during winter to prevent aggravating these skin disorders.
4) Avoid Products With Harmful Chemicals
Environmental irritants should be minimized to help reduce flare-ups. Using fragrance-free and dye-free laundry detergents and personal care products can prevent irritation.
5) Consider Using Humidifiers
To combat the effects of a cold dry winter, parents can consider using humidifiers in their infant’s room to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This added moisture can help prevent the baby’s skin from becoming excessively dry and enhance the effectiveness of moisturizers.
He suggests consulting healthcare professionals to understand the special care and attention required to manage these conditions. "Frequent check-ups with a pediatrician or dermatologist (are needed) to provide personalized advice and treatment options," Dr. Chattopadhyay wraps up.
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