Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is one of the most common skin conditions affecting children in Dubai and around the world. Parents often feel concerned when they notice their child’s skin becoming dry, red, or itchy — and understandably so. Eczema can cause discomfort, sleepless nights, and frustration for both the child and the family.
At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) Dubai, we understand how worrying it can be to manage your child’s sensitive skin. The good news is that with the right care, eczema can be effectively controlled, allowing children to live comfortably and confidently.
Let’s explore the main causes and common triggers of eczema in children — and what parents can do to help manage flare-ups.
Eczema is not caused by poor hygiene or allergies alone. It is a complex condition involving genetics, immune system response, and environmental factors.
Here are the primary causes:
Children with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis (hay fever) are more likely to develop eczema. This happens because their skin barrier may be naturally weaker, allowing moisture to escape and irritants to enter more easily.
In children with eczema, the immune system tends to overreact to irritants and allergens, causing inflammation, redness, and itching. This overactivity can make even mild triggers cause noticeable flare-ups.
Healthy skin acts as a natural shield that locks in moisture and keeps irritants out. In eczema, this barrier is less effective, which leads to dryness and makes the skin more vulnerable to infections or irritation.
Dubai’s hot and humid weather, frequent air-conditioning, and dusty air can make eczema symptoms more difficult to manage. Identifying and avoiding common triggers can make a big difference in keeping your child’s skin healthy.
Frequent shifts between hot outdoor temperatures and cold, dry indoor air can dry out the skin and trigger flare-ups. Using a gentle moisturizer several times a day helps maintain hydration.
Dust mites and fine sand particles, common in Dubai’s environment, can irritate sensitive skin and worsen itching.
Many soaps, bubble baths, and detergents strip away the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness. Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cleansers to reduce irritation.
Synthetic fabrics like polyester and rough materials like wool can irritate a child’s skin. Soft, breathable cotton clothing is usually best.
Some children with eczema may react to foods such as eggs, milk, nuts, or wheat. However, this varies for each child and should be discussed with a dermatologist or allergy specialist at DRHC Dubai before making dietary changes.
Sweating is a common trigger for itching, especially in children who play outdoors. Frequent but short lukewarm showers can help reduce irritation without over-drying the skin.
Emotional stress can sometimes worsen eczema symptoms. Ensuring adequate sleep, calm routines, and emotional support can help reduce flare-ups.
While eczema cannot be “cured,” it can be successfully managed with consistent care and medical guidance. At DRHC Dubai, our dermatology team recommends a personalized care plan that includes: