WHAT IS ECZEMA?
As a parent you want your child to be healthy, and right now if you are reading this, you are likely seeing your precious little one suffer from chronic eczema or painful, dry, sensitive skin. This chronic skin condition is surprisingly common but often uncomfortable, painful and difficult to manage. However, educating yourself on the most common eczema symptoms and the many reasons for chronic and severe eczema can help alleviate the stress that it brings to your family and provide your precious little one much-needed relief.

Below are some common facts about childhood eczema and possible reasons for chronic or severe eczema flare-ups.

MOST COMMON TYPE OF ECZEMA
Did you know that there are seven types of eczema? Yes, seven! But, the most common form of chronic eczema and the one most children, like yours, suffer from is "atopic dermatitis."

So, when you hear or read about “eczema” it is most likely referring to atopic dermatitis. This type of eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dryness, scaly patches, bumps, pain, redness, and irritation. It often appears like a rash on the skin. Eczema is very common. 9.6 million, or one out of 10, children in the United States suffer from eczema. Chronic eczema can begin at any age and range from mild to severe. It is important to note, eczema of any kind is not contagious and you cannot “catch it” from another person.

WHAT CAUSES ECZEMA?
Even though the exact cause of chronic eczema is unknown, researchers believe that those who develop eczema do so because of a combination of genes, environmental factors, and stress. In other words, eczema is a multifactorial condition that has many possible causes. Please know that while difficult to understand, eczema IS treatable with the right skincare routine and lifestyle changes.

As a pediatrician and a mom, I understand how important it is to provide the best care for your kids. When it comes to dealing with chronic conditions such as childhood eczema, it can feel scary and frustrating to find answers. Please follow along our Dr. Sylma social media pages to learn more about childhood eczema and receive our best tips on how to treat and manage this painful skin condition naturally.

Here's to your little one's good health + happy skin!