What is eczema in children?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition in children that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. It can appear as red, scaly patches on the face, scalp, arms, legs, or body folds. The condition tends to flare up and improve over time, and many children experience symptoms before the age of five.
Why does my child have eczema?
Eczema develops due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Children with a family history of eczema, asthma or allergic rhinitis (hay fever) are more likely to develop it. Their skin barrier tends to lose moisture easily, allowing irritants and allergens to trigger inflammation and itching.
How is eczema in children treated?
Treatment aims to repair the skin barrier, control inflammation and reduce itching. Your dermatologist will tailor treatment based on your child’s age, skin sensitivity and disease severity. Common approaches include:
What can parents do to manage their child’s eczema at home?
What can make my child’s eczema worse?
Several common triggers can worsen a child’s eczema:
- Dry weather or prolonged air-conditioning
- Soaps, shampoos, bubble baths or fragranced skin products
- Rough fabrics such as wool or synthetics
- Heat, sweat, and dust
- Allergens such as dust mites or pet dander
- Inadequate moisturising after bathing
- Stress or poor sleep
- Secondary infections (when scratching breaks the skin)
When should I see a dermatologist?
Consult a dermatologist if:
- Your child’s eczema persists despite regular moisturising
- The rash is widespread, painful or oozing
- It interferes with sleep or school activities
- You suspect a skin infection or allergy
- You need guidance on proper skincare or topical use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eczema in children common?
Yes. Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions in children in Singapore. It can affect up to one in five children in Singapore, although severity varies from mild dryness to more persistent, itchy rashes that interfere with sleep and comfort.
Is eczema contagious?
No. Eczema is not infectious and cannot be spread through contact or sharing personal items. It is a result of the skin’s overreactive immune response, not bacteria or viruses.
Can certain foods cause eczema flares?
In most cases, food is not the direct cause of eczema. However, certain foods (such as eggs, dairy, soy or nuts) may worsen symptoms in some children who have true food allergies. Food allergy testing should only be done when there is a clear clinical suspicion, as unnecessary food avoidance may lead to poor nutrition.
Will my child outgrow eczema?
Many children experience improvement with age, though some may continue to have dry or sensitive skin into adolescence or adulthood. Early management helps prevent complications such as infection, thickened skin, or sleep disruption.