Helping Kids with Eczema Sleep Better
Ulyana Michailov 
In this blog post, we will explore natural methods and evidence-based solutions to help children with eczema sleep better.
Helping Kids with Eczema Sleep Better
Eczema is a common and often challenging condition for both children and their parents. One of the most distressing aspects of eczema is how it disrupts sleep. The constant itching and discomfort, especially at night, can prevent children from getting the rest they need.
Why Eczema Disrupts Sleep
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, affects the skin's barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, pain and inflammation. For children, this condition can be particularly disruptive, as nighttime is when the body’s natural cortisol (anti-inflammatory hormone) levels drop, leading to increased inflammation and itching. Scratching at night, often in their sleep, can worsen the symptoms, leading to a cycle of irritation that impacts both the child and the parents.
Sleep disruption caused by eczema can affect a child’s overall health, mood, and development. Addressing this issue is essential for both physical and emotional well-being.
1. Bathing Habits: How to Soothe Eczema-Prone Skin
While long, hot baths may seem soothing, they can actually strip the skin of natural oils and worsen eczema symptoms. Keep bath and shower water tepid warm and avoid soap.
Natural Solution: Calendula Infused Bath Oil
Calendula is a well-known natural remedy for soothing irritated skin. Calendula flowers contains compounds that help to reduce inflammation and itching, making it an ideal addition to a warm bath. Add Calendula Infused Bath Oil such as Weleda’s Organic Baby Oil. Don’t worry that it is for baby skin. That is exactly why I’m suggesting to use it!
2. Moisturising the Skin: Seal in the hydration
One of the most important steps in managing eczema is keeping the skin well-moisturized. Dry skin exacerbates eczema symptoms, leading to more irritation and itchiness, which can disrupt sleep.
Natural Solution: Use Gentle, Fragrance-Free Moisturisers
Ideally, natural based however even mineral oil based moisturisers are better than leaving out this step. Use your chosen moisturiser after your child showers or bathes in tepid water to help seal the hydration into the skin.
Suggested moisturisers:
Weleda White Mallow Body Lotion
Janesce Calendula Blossom Cream
Evidence-Based Tip: Research suggests that regular moisturising, especially with emollients, helps restore the skin’s barrier function and reduces flare-ups. A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that daily moisturising with emollients significantly reduced eczema symptoms in children.
3. Managing Room Temperature and Humidity
Environmental factors such as dry air and extreme temperatures can aggravate eczema symptoms. Maintaining a comfortable and consistent room environment is crucial for improving sleep.
Natural Solution: Use a Humidifier
Dry air, particularly during winter months, can make eczema symptoms worse. A humidifier in the child's bedroom can add moisture to the air and prevent skin from becoming too dry while they sleep. Make sure the room is not too hot or too cold, as overheating can also trigger flare-ups.
Evidence-Based Tip: Research from the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology suggests that a humidified environment can help reduce the frequency and severity of eczema flare-ups by preventing skin dryness.
4. Creating a Relaxing and Predictable Bedtime Routine
Dim the lights and reduce or eliminate screen time two hours before bed time. Bright lights and blue screen light has been shown to disrupt melatonin production, which is so important to maintain when managing eczema. If settling a younger child try soothing music and reading books. When settling with an older child try a guided relaxation.
6. Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and Minimising Skin Irritants
Certain environmental and food triggers can worsen eczema symptoms. Identifying and avoiding these triggers is crucial for managing eczema and improving sleep.
Natural Solution: Choose Hypoallergenic Bedding and Clothes
Cotton is one of the most breathable fabrics and is less likely to irritate eczema-prone skin. Ensure that your child’s bedding and pajamas are made from soft, natural fibers like cotton and silk. Also, avoid harsh detergents that may contain fragrances or chemicals that can irritate the skin.
Evidence-Based Tip: A study published in Pediatrics found that the use of fragrance-free laundry detergents and natural fabrics reduced the risk of eczema flare-ups and improved sleep quality.
Managing eczema and improving sleep quality requires a multi-faceted approach. Natural remedies, such as moisturising and incorporating calming bedtime routines, can make a significant difference in easing discomfort and promoting better rest.
This website is dedicated to teaching parents how to help treat their child’s eczema naturally using nutrition and naturopathic principles.
If you are ready to consider treating the root cause of your child’s eczema using naturopathic methods book in your virtual appointment here.
Otherwise, consider getting your child’s free skin report to learn more.
