It's easy to say, "Don't scratch." Getting your child with eczema to listen to you is another story. But a little creativity can help keep your kid's fingers away from the itchy rash.
Why It's Important to Cut Back on the Scratching
"The trouble with scratching is that it can actually make the condition worse," says Lawrence Eichenfield, MD, chief of pediatric dermatology at Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego. "And, it can cause cuts in the skin that can become infected. So it's important for parents to learn ways to help their child stop scratching."
Follow these tips to help your child reduce the urge to scratch.
1. Use Moisturizers Liberally
Keep your child's skin properly moisturized to help keep eczema flare-ups and itching at bay.
Thick ointments, such as petroleum jelly, contain more oil than lotions and are the most effective at locking in moisture.
Some children may not like the feel of thick ointments. "I suggest parents let their older child try several moisturizers and choose which kind to use," Eichenfield says. "Because the best moisturizer is the one that your child will use."
For the best itch relief, use moisturizers several times a day, especially after bathing or washing.
2. Use Wet Wraps to Soothe Itchy Skin
Some parents find that using wet wraps can help stop the itching.
The best time to apply wet wraps is right before bedtime. Follow these steps:
- Have your child soak in a lukewarm bath for about 5 to 10 minutes.
- After the bath, gently pat the skin dry with a towel and apply moisturizer or medication as directed.
- Moisten clean gauze bandages with water, and wrap the affected skin.
- Cover the wet bandages with a dry bandage or towel to lock in the moisture, and leave overnight.
You can apply wet wraps on any part of your child's body that is especially itchy.
3. Keep Fingernails Clipped
Short fingernails cause less damage to the skin if your child does scratch.
If scratching at night is a problem, have your child wear cotton gloves to bed.