If you've ever watched your baby wake up scratching at red, irritated skin, you'll know how heartbreaking eczema can be.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is one of the most common childhood skin conditions. It affects babies, toddlers, children and even adults. While eczema isn't contagious, it can cause significant discomfort, including dry skin, itching, redness, inflammation and disrupted sleep.

For many families, eczema comes and goes in cycles. Some children outgrow it, while others continue to experience flare-ups into adulthood.

The good news? Although there is currently no cure for eczema, understanding what triggers it and how to care for sensitive skin can make a significant difference.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects the skin's protective barrier.

Healthy skin acts like a shield, helping to keep moisture in and irritants out. When someone has eczema, this barrier doesn't work as effectively. As a result, the skin loses moisture more easily and becomes more vulnerable to irritants, allergens and environmental triggers.

Common eczema symptoms include:

• Dry, rough or scaly skin

• Red or inflamed patches

• Intense itching

• Cracked or weeping skin

• Thickened skin from repeated scratching

• Sleep disturbances caused by itching

Eczema can appear anywhere on the body but is commonly found on:

• Cheeks and face in babies

• Elbows and knees

• Hands and wrists

• Neck

• Ankles and feet

What Causes Eczema?

Researchers still don't fully understand why some people develop eczema while others don't.

However, genetics appears to play a major role.

Children are more likely to develop eczema if there is a family history of:

• Eczema

• Asthma

• Hay fever

• Allergies

Many experts now believe eczema develops through a combination of:

Genetics

Certain genetic variations can affect how well the skin barrier functions.

Immune System Response

People with eczema often have a more reactive immune system, which can overreact to substances that wouldn't normally cause irritation.

Environmental Factors

Modern environments expose us to numerous irritants, allergens and pollutants that may contribute to eczema flare-ups.

It's important to remember that eczema is not caused by poor hygiene or parenting choices. Many families follow excellent skincare routines and still experience eczema.

Common Eczema Triggers

Every child is different.

What causes one child's eczema to flare may have no effect on another.

Keeping a symptom diary can help identify patterns and triggers.

Some of the most common eczema triggers include:

Dry Skin

When skin becomes too dry, it can crack and become itchy, leading to inflammation and flare-ups.

Heat and Sweating

Many children find that hot weather, overheated rooms or excessive sweating can worsen symptoms.

Irritants

Common irritants include:

• Fragranced skincare products

• Bubble baths

• Harsh soaps

• Laundry detergents

• Household cleaning products

• Disinfectants

• Chlorinated swimming pools

Environmental Allergens

Some children react to:

• Dust mites

• Pollen

• Mould

• Pet dander

• Grass

Illness and Infection

Viral infections, colds and skin infections can sometimes trigger or worsen eczema symptoms.

Stress and Emotional Factors

While stress doesn't cause eczema, it can contribute to flare-ups in both children and adults.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations may influence eczema severity, particularly in older children and adults.

How to Help Relieve Eczema Naturally

Managing eczema often involves reducing triggers, protecting the skin barrier and maintaining consistent moisturisation.

1. Keep Skin Moisturised

Moisturising is one of the most important parts of eczema care.

Applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser helps support the skin barrier and reduce moisture loss.

For best results:

• Apply moisturiser immediately after bathing

• Reapply throughout the day if skin feels dry

• Choose products specifically designed for sensitive skin

• Avoid products containing unnecessary fragrances or harsh ingredients

Consistency is often more important than the specific product used.

2. Avoid Hot Baths and Showers

While a hot bath may feel comforting, excessive heat can strip natural oils from the skin.

Instead:

• Use lukewarm water

• Keep baths short

• Pat skin dry rather than rubbing

• Apply moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp

3. Dress in Breathable Fabrics

Clothing can have a surprising impact on eczema.

Many families find that natural, breathable fabrics help minimise irritation.

Good options include:

• Organic cotton

• Bamboo fabrics

• Soft natural fibres

Some children find wool, rough fabrics or synthetic materials irritating.

4. Create a Skin-Friendly Sleep Environment

Night-time itching can be particularly challenging.

To help minimise discomfort:

• Keep bedrooms cool

• Use breathable bedding

• Avoid overheating

• Wash bedding regularly using gentle detergents

If your child frequently wakes scratching, it may be worth reviewing bedding materials and room temperature.

5. Reduce Exposure to Known Triggers

Once you've identified possible triggers, try reducing exposure where practical.

This may include:

• Vacuuming regularly

• Using dust-mite covers

• Keeping pets out of bedrooms

• Choosing fragrance-free cleaning products

• Avoiding heavily scented personal care products

Can Food Cause Eczema?

Food allergies and eczema are often discussed together, but the relationship is complex.

Food allergies do not cause eczema in most children.

However, some children with eczema may also have food allergies that contribute to flare-ups.

Common allergy triggers may include:

• Cow's milk

• Eggs

• Peanuts

• Tree nuts

• Soy

• Wheat

If you suspect a food allergy, it's important to seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional before removing foods from your child's diet.

Keeping both a food diary and skin diary can help identify patterns worth discussing with your doctor.

Should You Avoid Skincare Products Containing Food Ingredients?

Recent research has raised questions about applying certain food-based ingredients directly to damaged skin.

Some experts believe that exposure through broken skin may increase the risk of sensitisation in some children.

Ingredients commonly discussed include:

• Oat proteins

• Wheat proteins

• Goat's milk

• Nut oils

This doesn't mean every child with eczema should avoid these ingredients. However, if your child has severe eczema, known allergies or a strong family history of allergies, it may be worth discussing product choices with your healthcare professional.

When Should You See a Doctor?

It's important to seek medical advice if:

• Eczema is affecting sleep regularly

• Skin becomes infected

• Moisturisers aren't helping

• Symptoms are severe

• You suspect food allergies

• Your child is experiencing significant discomfort

A healthcare professional can help develop an eczema management plan tailored to your child's needs.

The Bottom Line

Eczema can be frustrating, exhausting and emotionally challenging for both children and parents.

While there isn't a cure, many families successfully manage eczema by understanding triggers, supporting the skin barrier and maintaining a gentle, consistent skincare routine.

Small changes—such as reducing irritants, choosing breathable fabrics, avoiding overheating and moisturising regularly—can often make a meaningful difference.

Most importantly, remember that every child's eczema journey is different. What works for one family may not work for another, so patience and observation are key.

With the right approach, many children can enjoy longer periods between flare-ups and more comfortable, happier skin.

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Baby and Kids

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