Managing itching from eczema:
One of the most frustrating symptoms of Atopic eczema is the itchiness that accompanies it.
As a parent or carer of a child with eczema, it can be so difficult to watch them suffer from pain and discomfort. Whislt we know it feels so good for them to scratch that itch, we also know that their uncontrollable scratching can lead to skin damage, infection, and worsening of the condition. It can be hard to constantly correct your child for scratching, especially when we know it is a natural response to the unbearable itch.
In this article, we will discuss why scratching eczema feels so good, the risks associated with it, and how you can help manage and treat your child's eczema itchiness without scratching.
Understanding the Psychological Impact of Eczema Itching
Eczema is not just a physical condition; it also has a significant psychological impact on children. The constant itch can lead to frustration, irritability, and even sleep disturbances, which in turn can affect a child's overall mood and behavior. It's essential to acknowledge that while the physical symptoms are the most apparent, the emotional toll of eczema can be just as challenging.
Children with eczema may feel isolated or embarrassed by their condition, especially if it leads to visible rashes or sores. This can make them more self-conscious and less willing to engage in social activities, which are crucial for their development. Therefore, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of eczema is key to improving their quality of life.
Why does scratching eczema feel so good?
Scratching provides temporary relief from itchiness, it is a relief to scratch. When you scratch your skin, it releases histamines, which can reduce itchiness and also create a mild euphoric sensation.
However, this relief is short-lived and can actually make the itchiness and the situation worse in the long run.
The risks of scratching eczema
Whilst it feels good in the moment scratching eczema can lead to:
Skin damage: Scratching can damage the skin and cause it to become red, inflamed, and painful. This can lead to scarring, which can be permanent.
Infection: Scratching can break the skin barrier, creating an entry point for bacteria and other irritants. This can lead to infection, which can be serious and require further medical attention.
Worsening of the condition: Scratching can make eczema patches larger, more inflamed, and more difficult to manage. This can lead to a vicious cycle of itchiness and scratching, which can be frustrating for both you and your child.
How to manage eczema itchiness without scratching:
Fortunately, there are many ways to manage eczema itchiness and reduce scratching. Here are some tips to help your child feel more comfortable:
1. Use moisturizers
Moisturizers helps maintain the skin barrier and keep the skin hydrated, which can reduce itchiness. Look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic moisturizers that are specifically designed for eczema. Apply them to your child's skin after bathing and often throughout the day. Read our blog on the importance of moisturising with eczema for more information.
2. Use cool compresses
Cool compresses can help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. You can use a soft cloth soaked in cool water or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel. Apply the cold compress to your child's eczema patches for 10-15 minutes at a time for instant relief..
3. Take oatmeal baths
Oatmeal baths can help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. You can add colloidal oatmeal to a warm bath and soak your child in it for 15-20 minutes. After the bath, pat your child's skin dry with a soft towel and apply moisturizer.
4. Avoid irritants
Certain substances can irritate the skin and trigger eczema flare-ups. These can include soaps, detergents, perfumes, and fabrics like nylon or polyester. Try to avoid these irritants and use gentle, eczema kind products.
5. Dress your child in eczema friendly, breathable clothing
Synthetic or Man-Made clothing containing materials like polyester or nylon, can trap moisture and irritants against the skin, making eczema worse. Natural eczema friendly clothing made of fibres like certified organic cotton or organic bamboo are more soothing. Eczema suits for moderate to severe eczema, like SkinAkin’s designs, keep your child comfortable even when dry and wet wrapping.
6. Keep your child's nails short
Keeping your child's nails short and covered, combined with a full body eczema relief suit or gloves, can help reduce the damage caused by scratching. If your child does scratch their eczema, make sure their nails are short, keep their hands covered, and protect their skin, to help minimize the damage and reduce the risk of infection. Filing nails is also useful to keep them smooth.
7. Use distraction techniques
Distraction techniques can help your child take their mind off the itchiness and reduce the urge to scratch. Engaging your child in an activity they enjoy, like coloring, reading, or playing a game or tablet, can distract them for a while. Using mindfulness techniques, like deep breathing or visualization, can also help your child relax and reduce stress.
8. Seek medical advice
If your child's eczema is becoming more severe or difficult to manage, it may be time to revisit the treatment plan with your healthcare expert. Your child's doctor or dermatologist can help identify other triggers, allergens, and recommend treatment options that can help reduce itchiness to help improve your child's quality of life.
9. Engaging with Your Child’s Eczema Journey
Helping your child understand their condition can empower them and reduce the feeling of helplessness. Educate them about why it's important not to scratch and involve them in their treatment plan. For younger children, this can be done through games or stories that make the process more engaging. Older children can participate in choosing their skincare products or even help track their symptoms to see what works best.
Conclusion
Scratching eczema may feel good in the moment for your child, but it can cause more harm than good. By using a combination of moisturizers, eczema friendly suits or protective clothing, cool compresses, oatmeal baths, and distraction techniques, you can help your child manage their eczema itchiness without scratching. Remember to keep your child's nails short, avoid irritants, and seek medical advice if necessary. With the right approach, you can help your child feel more comfortable and reduce the impact of eczema on their daily life. We hope this blog post helps to stop your child scratching their eczema.
Check out SkinAkin's range of certified organic cotton eczema relief suits for eczema. These help comfort and relieve the itch, make managing eczema easier, and protect their delicate skin from uncontrollable scratching. Maximum protection and peace of mind, easing the impact of an Eczema flare.
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