Treatment for Atopic Dermatitis in Infants and Children

Treatment for Atopic Dermatitis in Infants and Children

Tips for treating atopic dermatitis in infants and children include:
 
  • Give lukewarm baths
  • Apply lubricant immediately following the bath
  • Keep the child's fingernails filed short
  • Select soft cotton fabrics when choosing clothing
  • Consider using sedating antihistamines to promote sleep and reduce scratching at night
  • Keep the child cool
  • Avoid situations where overheating occurs
  • Learn to recognize skin infections and seek treatment promptly
  • Attempt to distract the child with activities to keep him or her from scratching
  • Identify and remove irritants and allergens.
 
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD