About one out of every ten Americans suffer from the chronic skin condition called eczema. For children, the number is higher: 15 to 20 percent or more. While eczema can appear anywhere on the body, including the backs of the knees and inside the elbows, it can be most upsetting on the face. In this blog, we will discuss eczema on the face, as well as its causes, risk factors and treatments.
Symptoms of Eczema
Also called atopic dermatitis, eczema has a long list of symptoms.
These include red, itchy and inflamed patches of skin, along with extreme dryness and scaling. In severe cases, the affected areas may become cracked and blistered or even bleed.
Also, constant itching and scratching often causes scarring and hyperpigmentation. In other words, the affected areas become thickened and leathery, and the color changes to a noticeably darker hue over time.
Eczema on the face can be particularly concerning. Wrinkles under the eyes may develop due to the scaling and inflammation characteristic of this skin problem.
Adults become embarrassed and may withdraw socially because their eczema is so noticeable. Wrinkles under the eyes may develop due to the scaling and inflammation characteristic of this skin problem. Children in particular may wish to avoid questions and teasing from their peers.
Causes of Eczema
The exact cause of eczema is unknown. However, experts believe it is related to a combination of heredity and environmental triggers. People with a family history of eczema or other allergies and asthma are more likely to develop this skin problem.
Also, certain environmental factors can cause eczema flare-ups. These factors may include:
- Temperature changes (hot or cold)
- Excessive sweating from physical exertion/play or very warm environments
- Water exposure (bathing too frequently or for too long)
- Harsh chemicals and detergents
- Irritants such as dust, pollen, pet dander and mold
- Food allergies (dairy, nuts and wheat as examples)
- Stress and emotional upset
Diagnosing Eczema
If you suspect your child has eczema, visit our pediatric skin specialist for proper diagnosis. There are no specific tests for eczema. Providers diagnose it based on medical history and physical examination of the affected areas.
During the exam, the dermatologist may ask about a family history of allergies or asthma. In some cases, allergy testing for your child can help determine if certain allergens are contributing to the eczema flare. Sometimes, the skin specialist may take a biopsy to rule out other conditions.
Managing Eczema on the Face
Although there is no cure for eczema, there are ways to manage and ease the symptoms. This includes avoiding triggers such as hot water, harsh chemicals and known allergens.
Moisturizing regularly prevents extreme dryness and itchiness. Additionally, use fragrance- and dye-free soaps and detergents to minimize irritation.
In some cases, topical ointments or creams–including over the counter corticosteroid preparations–reduce inflammation and the intense itching and scratching children experience. Antihistamines can help as well.
Establish a daily skin care routine to keep the face and other areas of the skin moisturized. Apply a thick layer of fragrance-free moisturizer after bathing and reapply throughout the day as needed. Using a humidifier in the bedroom to keep the air moist.
Be sure to dress your baby or young child in fabrics which allow for the circulation of air to the body. Avoid wool and clothes with a high percentage of synthetics as much as possible.
Surprisingly, stress, anxiety and even the emotional upset (crying) may worsen eczema symptoms. Encouraging relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, can help manage stress levels and reduce eczema flare-ups.
In addition, work closely with the dermatologist to create a treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific needs. The provider may recommend prescription medications or other therapies, such as in-office phototherapy, to help manage eczema symptoms.
Find out More About Pediatric Eczema in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Samatha Casselman is our expert pediatric dermatologist at Happy Skin Dermatology. She is passionate about helping parents and children discover the treatment plans best suited to their overall health and skin condition. Eczema on the face is one of the most common problems she sees in her Phoenix, AZ, office.
To learn more about the causes of pediatric eczema and how to manage it, contact us for a friendly and helpful consultation with Dr. Casselman. Call (602) 837-3376 or request a visit here. We look forward to helping your child feel good about themself through enjoying healthy skin.
