Baby eczema is one of the most common skin conditions reported to our kids’ skin doctor in Singapore. It causes itchy, dry and bumpy skin patches on infants.
It often affects the face of the baby prominently and may be due to a weakened outer skin layer which leads to increased skin dryness, itchiness and sensitivity. During flare-ups, you may notice that these symptoms get severe or persist for a few weeks before subsiding.
The causes of eczema are varied and range from genetic predispositions to environmental factors and a compromised skin barrier etc. Factors like a family history of eczema, irritants in soaps, allergens, weather changes and certain foods may trigger or exacerbate baby eczema.
Can a Dermatologist help with Baby Eczema?
It isn’t easy to watch your baby struggle with eczema. Even though it affects at least one in ten children in developed countries, watching your baby’s comfort due to itchy, dry and bumpy skin cannot only be distressing but also take a toll on your emotional well-being. So, if you’ve been looking for a kids’ eczema in Singapore you may wonder, can a dermatologist help with baby eczema?
The answer is; yes. A dermatologist can indeed help with baby eczema. These specialists receive specialized training in the diagnosis and management of various skin conditions including eczema. However, if you’re looking for someone to help your baby, you may want to work with a doctor who specializes on pediatric dermatology.
Seeking a kids’ dermatologist in Singapore for baby eczema is your best bet against the condition as they do not only assure you of proper evaluation. You can also count of them to give tailored advice to effectively manage your baby’s eczema.
What can a Dermatologist do for Baby Eczema?
Now that you understand that a dermatologist is the right specialist to see for baby eczema, you may now wonder, what can a dermatologist do for baby eczema? Well, the type of treatment or remedy that your kids’ dermatologist in Singapore may recommend or prescribe for eczema will depend on the severity of the condition.
In some cases, the potential triggers may also determine the treatment your kid’s dermatologist recommends for eczema. Real quick, here’s a summary of what you can expect the dermatologist to do for your baby’s eczema;
I. Prescribing Stronger Topical Steroids
Prescribing stronger topical steroids is a measure your kid’s dermatologist in Singapore might take when managing severe or persistent baby eczema. These steroids are available in various strengths and they work by reducing inflammation, itching, and redness associated with eczema.
Usually stronger steroids are preferred when milder treatments like moisturizers or low-strength steroids don’t effectively control eczema symptoms. They are usually used for short periods in specific areas and under strict dermatologist guidance.
This is to avoid potential side effects like skin thinning. However, it’s crucial to use these stronger steroids judiciously and as directed by the dermatologist.
Also since they are potent medications, your dermatologist may only consider them when eczema significantly impacts your baby’s quality of life or fails to respond to other treatments.
II. Recommending Additional Therapies
Beyond prescribing steroids, your kid’s dermatologist in Singapore might recommend additional therapies to manage your baby’s eczema effectively. These therapies could involve complementary approaches or the use of emollients to alleviate symptoms and maintain skin moisture.
Complementary therapies may include various non-medicated treatments. For example they may recommend; wet wraps, bleach baths, or phototherapy.
Wet wraps involve applying moisturizer and wrapping the skin to enhance absorption, while diluted bleach baths may help reduce bacteria on the skin to minimize eczema flare-ups. In phototherapy, the dermatologist may use controlled exposure to specific wavelengths of light to reduce inflammation.
Emollients, like creams, ointments, or lotions can help manage eczema by hydrating the skin and preventing dryness. They do not only help create a protective barrier but also soothes irritation, and reduces itching.
III. Antibiotics for Infections
Dermatologists often prescribe antibiotics when eczema-related infections occur. The aim in this case is to prevent complications and promote faster healing.
However, these medications should only be used as prescribed. Also as the parent, you should see to it that the treatment course is completed even if symptoms improve.
This is the only way you can be sure that the infection is fully eradicated. Antibiotics work by targeting and eliminating the bacterial infection to prevent it from worsening or spreading.
They might be prescribed in various forms. For example, you may be given topical creams, oral medications, or in severe cases, intravenous treatment. It all depends on the severity of the infection.
IV. Advanced Medications
Like in many other conditions, there are instances when your baby’s eczema gets worse or is just unresponsive. In severe or unresponsive cases of baby eczema the dermatologist may opt for advanced medications to manage the condition.
These medications aim to suppress local skin inflammation and immune responses that contribute to eczema flare-ups. These advanced medications often come in various forms.
For example, they may be administered as oral or injectable drugs and biologics, designed to target specific immune pathways. They are usually reserved for cases where other treatments, including topical steroids, have proven insufficient or when eczema significantly impacts a child’s well-being.
However, using these advanced medications demands careful supervision and monitoring due to potential side effects and their impact on the immune system. A knowledgeable dermatologist will always be on hand to guide their usage to balance the potential risks and benefits for the child.
Wrapping Up: What to Ask the Dermatologist about Baby Eczema
We get it; dealing with baby eczema isn’t easy but you should be able to understand what your doctor suggests for your baby’s condition. With that said, when you’re consulting with a kids’ dermatologist in Singapore, ask them about the potential triggers to your baby’s condition and what you can do to effectively manage them.
Ask about gentle bathing practices, proper moisturizes and any potential allergens you should avoid. Importantly, you may also want to ask about treatment options like ointments or medicated creams to help with the symptoms especially during flare-ups.
A good kids’ dermatologist will be keen to address any concerns you may have about your baby’s eczema to avoid any apprehension. If you’re on the search for the best kids’ dermatologist in Singapore, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Uma Alagappan for personalized care. Call or visit her facility at;
The Dermatology Clinic – Dr Uma Alagappan
321 Joo Chiat Pl,
#05-01A Parkway East Specialist Hospital,
Singapore 427990
290 Orchard Road 09-01/02 Paragon Medical Centre,
Singapore 238859
+65 6517 9760
+65 6320 0310
