Dry Skin in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Dry skin is a common problem. When your child has dry skin, their skin may be rough, scaly, or flaky. And it may itch.

There are many causes of dry skin. Dry indoor air can cause your child's skin to become dry. So can living in climates with low humidity. Indoor heating or air conditioning can dry out the air inside your home. Bathing too often may also dry your child's skin, especially if you use hot water for their baths or showers.

A tendency toward dry, itchy skin may run in families. Some children may have problems with the body's immune system, allergies, or other skin conditions that may also cause patches of dry skin.

An over-the-counter cream may help your child's dry skin. If the skin problem does not get better with home treatment, your doctor may prescribe ointment. Antibiotics may be needed if your child has a skin infection.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

Showers and baths

• Keep your child's baths or showers short, and use warm or lukewarm water. Don't use hot water. It takes off more of the skin's natural oils.
• Choose a mild skin cleanser instead of soap.
• If your child is taking a bath, use a skin cleanser at the very end. Then rinse off with fresh water. Gently pat skin dry with a towel.

Skin creams and moisturizers

• Apply moisturizer or skin cream right away after a bath or shower while the skin is still damp. Use a moisturizer at other times too, as often as your child needs it.
• Moisturizing creams are better than lotions. Look for products that contain glycerin, mineral oil, petrolatum, or shea butter.

Other tips

• When you wash your child's clothes, use a small amount of detergent. Use a detergent that doesn't have added fragrance. Don't use fabric softeners or dryer sheets.
• If your child has very dry hands, spread petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) on the hands before bed. Give your child thin cotton gloves to wear while sleeping. If your child's feet are dry, spread Vaseline on them and have your child wear socks while sleeping.
• Patches of itchy skin might not just be dry skin. If it doesn't get better using moisturizers, check with your child's doctor.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child has symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness of the skin.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child does not get better as expected.