Understanding what dermatitis is
Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin characterized by redness, itching or even blisters. It can be triggered by different factors such as allergies, exposure to irritants, stress, or simply genetic predispositions.
Understanding these different aspects of dermatitis is crucial for parents, as it will allow you to better recognize symptoms in your children and take preventative measures to avoid known triggers. In addition, it will help you choose the right products for the care of your children's skin , avoiding potentially irritating substances and favoring solutions adapted to the sensitivity of our little ones' skin.
Dermatitis: characteristics and differences between its forms
Dermatitis comes in different forms, two of the most common being contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis is a skin reaction caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergenic material. Symptoms may be red, itchy skin that usually appears on exposed areas of skin. The most common allergens are nickel, chemicals present in certain detergents and even in certain foods. To avoid contact dermatitis, it is recommended to avoid all contact with irritating sources, and to use products suitable for the sensitive skin of children but also older ones.
Conversely, atopic dermatitis is a more complex form that is often associated with a family history. It affects up to 25% of children and 2 to 3% of adults. Moreover, 90% of children develop atopic dermatitis before the age of 5. It is characterized by periods of flare-ups and remissions, with symptoms such as intense itching, red, scaly patches, and dry, cracked skin. In babies and young children, the most commonly affected areas are the face, scalp, buttocks and flexion areas (elbows and knees).
What are the best treatment approaches?
Treatments for dermatitis in infants and children vary depending on its type and include several important aspects.
Prevention plays a very important role, especially in children with a family history of dermatitis. It is therefore recommended to regularly use emollient creams which can reduce the risk of developing atopic dermatitis.
During flare-ups, your family doctor may prescribe topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
Apart from flare-ups, it is essential to have a suitable skincare routine. Therefore, the duration of the bath should be limited to 10 minutes and its temperature should be between 35 and 37℃ (95 and 98.6℉). The use of a gentle, moisturizing cleanser is recommended, such as a cleansing oil.
After bathing, it is best to gently dab the skin rather than rubbing it to avoid further irritating already sensitized skin.
Regular application of an emollient is also essential to keep the skin hydrated and protect the skin barrier. This step helps relieve itching and prevent flare-ups.
It is also important to choose clothing made from soft, breathable, hypoallergenic fabrics, avoid known irritants, and maintain a cool, humid environment to help reduce symptoms.
And the hands in all this?
Dermatitis can also affect the hands and cause redness, itching, cracking and even scales. The causes are similar to those of dermatitis on other parts of the body, including allergies, exposure to irritants, or simply genetic predispositions. Because adults are often in contact with irritating or allergenic substances, such as household cleaners, chemicals or metals, they are more likely to develop hand dermatitis.
To manage flare-ups on the hands, it is advisable to take certain precautions. This includes using gentle cleansers and, most importantly, applying moisturizer regularly to keep the skin supple and hydrated. Wearing gloves during activities that expose your hands to irritants, such as cleaning the house, can provide additional protection against hand dermatitis. By following these tips, you can reduce symptoms and improve the comfort of your hands.
As soon as possible, call a professional
It is essential for parents whose children suffer from atopic dermatitis to consult a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician or dermatologist, to obtain an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment.
It's also important to identify potential triggers by monitoring symptoms.
By following these practical tips and using the right skin care products, it is possible to effectively manage dermatitis in children and improve their daily lives.
Dermatitis can be difficult to manage, but with the right advice you can help your child live with it easily. At Mustela Canada, we are here to support you with suitable skin care products, particularly with our Stelopia range . Together, let's work to offer your children the gentle support they deserve.