Co-authored with dermatologist Clarence De BELILOVSKY, a member of the Mustela expert circle.
• I avoid using topical steroids on my baby.
Topical steroids are often controversial because they contain cortisone, but there's no definitive reason for their use. What you need to know is that they don't have the same side effects as oral steroids. When atopic dermatitis flares up, topical steroids applied once daily to the rash are safe for newborns, children, and adolescents (see Atopic Dermatitis ). They are particularly effective at quickly treating inflammation. When used in conjunction with moisturizing products, follow your doctor's advice to reduce rash and itching, help your babysleep more easily , and improve their quality of life.
• The milk I give my baby can affect atopic dermatitis.
If you have any concerns, please consult your doctor. They will arrange testing to confirm any food allergies and indicate which foods or drinks your baby should avoid. Contrary to popular belief, milk—especially its protein—is not necessarily the culprit. Currently, the best way to prevent and treat atopic dermatitis remains daily moisturizing and a doctor-prescribed topical steroids for use when rashes occur (see How to prevent atopic dermatitis? ).
• My child's atopic dermatitis will develop into asthma.
This misconception often stems from the fact that asthma may appear around age two, while atopic dermatitis tends to lessen at this time. However, there is no direct link between the two. If a baby has atopic dermatitis, it's due to atopy, where the immune system overreacts to allergens. This can also manifest as conjunctivitis, hay fever, or asthma, which are other possible manifestations of atopy and may coexist with eczema but are not necessarily related.
• Children with atopic dermatitis should not go to the beach or swimming pool.
• Children should not go to daycare or school when they have an attack.
There is no reason to do this. Atopic dermatitis is not contagious, so your child does not need to stay home. Simply inform the staff caring for your child (see
How to talk about atopic dermatitis in daycare? ) and ask them to be especially attentive and understanding of your child's feelings. Of course, you can also choose to let your child enjoy special cuddling time at home if you wish.
• Rash, itching, skin sensitivity, atopic dermatitis... Does this mean I can't keep pets?
Why not? It's true that you need to avoid allergens to prevent triggering the immune system. Hair and feathers are allergens. However, an allergic reaction isn't inevitable. If there were cats, dogs, or hamsters in the house before the child was born, early exposure may have developed immunity. The best approach is to consult a veterinarian and get tested. If an allergy is confirmed, measures should be taken, such as keeping pets out of certain rooms or away from the sofa. If you don't have pets at home but your child has always wanted one, you could consider keeping fish!
• Atopic skin is simply caused by stress.
Atopic dermatitis is primarily an allergic reaction, usually linked to genetics. However, it can be very stressful: random flare-ups, itching, fatigue, and more, not only for children but also for parents and family members, often leading to feelings of helplessness. Stress can worsen atopic dermatitis. Hugging or explaining to a child what atopic dermatitis is can make the situation easier to manage.
