Treating Eczema in Children: An Integrative Approach

While there's no one-size-fits-all cure for eczema, treating this uncomfortable condition in our littlest patients can be done effectively by targeting the root cause. While eczema is caused by problems in the skin’s barrier, genetic factors, food & environmental sensitivities, and the microbiome can all impact your child’s susceptibility to eczema symptoms.

In this post, we'll explore the various treatment options available to help provide relief and long-term healing in little lives affected by eczema.

Learn more about Integrative Pediatrics at CentreSpringMD.

Understanding Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that can cause significant discomfort for children. Characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin, eczema often appears on the face, arms, and legs. It's heartbreaking for parents to witness their children grappling with this relentless itch and irritation.

What It Looks Like

Eczema manifests as dry, scaly, and sometimes weeping patches on the skin. In infants, it typically starts on the cheeks and scalp. In older children, it often appears in the creases of the elbows and knees. The severity can range from mild to severe, and flare-ups can be triggered by various factors such as allergens, irritants, and even stress.

What Causes Eczema?

Understanding the root causes of eczema is crucial for effective treatment. Common triggers include food allergies, environmental allergens, and genetic predispositions.

Genetic predisposition or family history - If members of the family also have eczema, a child is also more likely to experience it. Genetic variations can also affect the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to redness & irritation. An estimated 50% of children with atopic dermatitis have this genetic predisposition (1). 

Food or environmental allergies/sensitivities - Certain foods and substances such as dairy, gluten, pollen, or pet dander can trigger eczema flare-ups.

Stress - Emotional stress can weaken the immune system and lead to inflammation, making eczema worse (2). 

Gut dysbiosis - An imbalance in the gut microbiome can contribute to eczema flare-ups (3). The digestive system plays a significant role in immune function, and when imbalanced, it can manifest with dermatological symptoms. 

Skin microbiome imbalance - Similar to the gut, the skin also has its own microbiome. When imbalanced, it can contribute to eczema and other skin conditions.

Related: Heal Your Gut After Antibiotics with Functional Medicine

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Testing & Treatments

To identify these triggers, integrative healthcare providers may recommend:

  • Patch testing: involves applying small amounts of potential allergens to the skin and monitoring for reactions.
  • Skin prick testing: a painless test where a tiny amount of allergen is pricked into the skin.
  • Blood tests: may be done to check for specific antibodies that can indicate allergies.
  • Stool testing: to check for gut health and bacteria imbalances that may contribute to eczema.
  • Detailed review of the child’s medical history

Conventional Treatments for Eczema

There are a variety of conventional treatment options available for managing eczema symptoms. These include topical creams and ointments, oral medications, and light therapy. These methods aim to alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups (4). 

Topical corticosteroids are the most commonly prescribed medication for reducing inflammation and itching. They work by suppressing the immune response in the affected area. However, prolonged use can have side effects such as thinning of the skin (5). 

Antihistamines may also be prescribed to help with itching and assist with sleep. Light therapy, or phototherapy, involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of light to reduce inflammation.

Read: The Functional Medicine Guide to Seasonal Allergies

Limitations of Traditional Treatment

While traditional treatments can be effective in managing symptoms, they often don’t address the underlying causes of eczema. Long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to side effects, and many parents are concerned about the potential impact of these medications on their child’s overall health.

The Integrative Medicine Approach to Treating Eczema in Children

To effectively treat eczema in your child and promote long-term healing, an integrative approach that combines traditional medical treatments with whole-body therapies is recommended.

Identifying Triggers

One of the first steps in an integrative approach to treating eczema is identifying and addressing potential triggers. This can involve eliminating certain foods from the child’s diet, implementing a personalized skincare routine, and avoiding harsh chemicals or irritants (6). 

Natural Remedies

Many parents are turning to natural remedies for their child’s eczema as an alternative to prescription medications. These may include:

  • Probiotics: Studies have shown that certain kinds of Lactobacillus probiotics can improve symptoms of eczema by promoting healthy gut bacteria balance (7).
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil supplements, omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce eczema symptoms.
  • Herbal creams and ointments: Natural products containing ingredients like calendula, chamomile, marshmallow root, and aloe vera may provide relief from itching and inflammation (8). 

Shop: Hypoallergenic Probiotic for Baby

Mind-Body Techniques

Stress can be a significant trigger for eczema flare-ups, making it essential to address the emotional well-being of children with eczema. Energy healing, and/or craniosacral therapy are options offered in our clinic that can help manage any anxiety, stress, or underlying emotional triggers (9).

The Role of Diet and Nutrition in Managing Eczema

Diet and nutrition play a significant role in managing eczema. Certain foods can trigger or worsen symptoms, while others can help reduce inflammation and support skin health.

Understanding Food Triggers

Experts believe it’s likely that food allergies may be the initial trigger for the immune reactivity responsible for eczema in many children. Up to 40% of children with moderate to severe eczema also have food allergies (10). 

Common food triggers for eczema include dairy, eggs, soy, wheat, and nuts. An elimination diet can help identify specific foods that may be causing flare-ups. This involves removing potential allergens from the child’s diet for a period of time and then gradually reintroducing them to observe any reactions.

Anti-inflammatory Foods

Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into the diet can help manage eczema symptoms. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and flaxseeds, can reduce inflammation. 

Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and fermented vegetables can bolster your child’s microbiome diversity, reducing the likelihood of a flare-up of eczema symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes for Long-term Eczema Management

Long-term management of eczema involves making lifestyle changes that minimize triggers and support overall skin health.

Creating an Eczema-friendly Environment

Maintaining a clean, allergen-free environment can help reduce eczema flare-ups. Use hypoallergenic bedding, avoid harsh cleaning products & detergents, and keep the home free from dust mites and pet dander.

Skincare Routine

Establishing a consistent skincare routine is essential for managing eczema. Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturize the skin regularly with emollient-rich lotions or creams. Bathing in lukewarm water and applying moisturizer immediately afterward can lock in moisture.

Clothing Choices

Choose clothing made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton. Avoid synthetic materials that can irritate the skin. Dressing your child in loose-fitting clothes can also prevent friction and sweating, which can exacerbate eczema.

What to Remember

Eczema in children requires a multifaceted approach for effective management. While traditional medical treatments can alleviate symptoms, integrating natural remedies, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments can provide comprehensive relief. An integrative approach not only addresses the symptoms but also targets the root causes of eczema, promoting long-term health and well-being.If your child is struggling with eczema symptoms, contact a patient care coordinator now for personalized advice and support. With an integrative team on your side, you can develop a tailored plan that meets your child’s unique needs.


Tags

Eczema, eczema remedies, Holistic Medicine, natural eczema relief, natural eczema remedies, pediatrics


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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
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