MBBS (S’pore) MRCP (UK) FAMS (Dermatology)
Worried about your child’s Eczema? Consult with a specialist today.
Also known as atopic dermatitis, it is a common skin condition that affects many children in Singapore. It manifests as recurrent, dry, itchy red patches on the skin and is often associated with a personal or family history of other atopic conditions including asthma, allergic rhinitis or allergic conjunctivitis. Eczema in children can range from mild to severe, and potentially impact their quality of life significantly.
Several factors are believed to contribute to its development or may trigger eczema, including:
Childhood eczema is a chronic skin condition that usually begins in infancy or early childhood. It is characterised by patches of dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. The symptoms of eczema may vary from child to child, but some of the most common signs include:
Eczema symptoms can be more severe in some children, affecting their sleep, mood, and daily activities.
Eczema can appear anywhere on the body, but certain locations and patterns are more common in children as follows:
Understanding these patterns can help you recognise eczema in your child and seek appropriate treatment.
Various triggers can worsen eczema symptoms in children. These include:
General advice:
Some specific eczema treatments for children your dermatologist may prescribe include:
In some cases of refractory or severe atopic dermatitis, more complex modes of treatment may be discussed. These include phototherapy, systemic immunomodulators and biologic treatments. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and age of the patient and needs to be decided on a case-by-case basis with your dermatologist.
Some effective strategies to prevent eczema flare-ups in children include:
Apply a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturiser to your child’s skin at least twice a day to maintain skin hydration and barrier function.
Using gentle, fragrance-free soaps and skin care products can reduce skin irritation.
Choose natural materials, such as cotton, to reduce skin irritation and itching.
Prevents skin damage and infections caused by scratching.
A regular sleep routine can help reduce stress and improve your child’s overall well-being.
Consult a paediatric dermatologist if you suspect your child has eczema, as early intervention can lead to better management and outcomes. Seek medical advice if:
Your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests or refer you to a specialist if necessary.
You can use your Integrated Shield Plans to pay for certain procedures. Speak to us to learn more, and you’ll be surprised at how affordable private healthcare can be.
We are dedicated to your skin health and well-being. Our results-oriented approach is suitable for a wide range of hair, skin and nail conditions. Consult our MOH-accredited dermatologist for a personalised treatment plan.
MBBS (S'pore) MRCP (UK) FAMS (Dermatology)
Dr. Lee Hwee Chyen is an accredited Adult & Paediatric dermatologist managing a wide range of skin, hair and nail conditions. The clinic provides services for medical, surgical, cosmetic, women’s and paediatric dermatology.
Feel free to drop by our our clinic and meet our specialist
101 Irrawaddy Road #16-09
Royal Square at Novena, Singapore 329565
+65 8701 7662 (WhatsApp Enquiries Only)
Mon - Fri (09:00am - 05:30pm)
Sat (09:00am - 1:00pm)
Sun & Public Holidays (Closed)
Eczema is a chronic, relapsing condition that manifests as inflamed, itchy, and dry patches on the skin. While not curable, eczema can be controlled to reduce flare-ups.
Persistent scratching can lead to skin breakdown and increased vulnerability to infections as well as changes to skin pigmentation and texture. Children with eczema have a higher likelihood of developing other atopic conditions such as asthma and allergic rhinitis.
No, it cannot be passed on through physical contact or shared items as it’s a result of an overactive immune response.