Eczema in Babies and Children: The Complete Parent Guide by Dr Nisa Khalil (Paediatrician in KL)

Eczema is one of the most common skin problems affecting babies and children in Malaysia. Many parents search online for answers like “why does my baby have rashes?”, “Is eczema dangerous?” or “best treatment for child eczema in KL”.

The good news is simple: eczema is manageable, and most children improve significantly with the right care and guidance.

As a paediatrician in Kuala Lumpur who sees eczema cases almost daily, Dr Nisa Khalil helps parents manage childhood eczema using practical, evidence-based care. This guide will help you understand eczema, treat it properly, and avoid common mistakes.

What Is Eczema in Babies and Children?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that causes dry, red, itchy and inflamed skin. It usually begins in infancy and early childhood, and can come and go in “flares”.

Eczema is not contagious. It happens because the skin barrier is weak and easily irritated by allergens, weather, bacteria and chemicals.

Common areas eczema affects include:

• Face and cheeks

• Neck and behind the ears

• Elbows and knees

• Hands and feet

• Chest and back

• Scalp

In babies, eczema often appears on the cheeks and body. In older children, eczema is more common in the skin folds.

Common Symptoms of Childhood Eczema

Parents should look out for:

• Constant scratching

• Red or darkened patches of skin

• Dry, flaky or cracked skin

• Weeping or oozing areas

• Thickened skin over time

• Poor sleep due to itching

Itching is usually the worst symptom. When eczema is uncontrolled, children may wake often at night and become irritable due to discomfort and lack of sleep.

Why Does My Child Have Eczema?

There is no single cause of eczema, but common triggers include:

1. Weak Skin Barrier

Children with eczema have skin that loses moisture easily.

2. Allergies

Some children have eczema linked to egg, milk, dust mite or pollen sensitivities.

3. Climate

Hot weather and sweat in Malaysia can make eczema worse.

4. Harsh Soaps and Detergents

Many “baby soaps” are not eczema-friendly.

5. Family History

Children are more likely to get eczema if parents have asthma, allergies or eczema.

Is Eczema Dangerous?

Eczema is not dangerous on its own, but uncontrolled eczema can lead to:

• Skin infections

• Scarring

• Sleep problems

• Emotional stress

• Social embarrassment

• Poor quality of life

This is why proper eczema treatment matters early.

The Right Way to Treat Child Eczema

There is no “cure” for eczema, but it can be very well-controlled with daily habits and correct treatment.

Step 1: Moisturise Properly

This is the most important step.

Choose thick, fragrance-free creams or ointments. Apply moisturiser:

• At least 2 to 3 times daily

• Immediately after bath

• On normal and affected skin

Good moisturising prevents flare-ups.

Step 2: Use Medication Correctly

When eczema becomes red, itchy or inflamed, doctors may prescribe:

• Topical steroids

• Anti-inflammatory creams

• Antibiotics if infected

• Antihistamines if sleep is disturbed

Don’t fear steroid creams. Used correctly, they are safe and effective.

Step 3: Control Triggers

Avoid:

• Hot showers

• Fragranced soaps

• Fabric softeners

• Rough clothing

• Overwashing

• Strong detergents

• Overheating and sweating

Switch to cotton clothing and mild cleansers.

Nutrition and Eczema

Not every child with eczema has a food allergy.

Avoid cutting food groups without medical advice.

If eczema is severe, persistent or associated with vomiting, bloody stools or poor growth, consult a pediatrician for proper allergy assessment.

Myth Busting: Eczema Edition

❌ It is caused by dirty skin
False.

❌ All eczema needs steroid creams forever
False.

❌ Food is always the cause
False.

❌ Eczema will never improve
False.

Most children improve with age if treated properly.

When Should You See a Paediatrician?

Seek medical advice if:

• Eczema keeps worsening

• Your child scratches till bleeding

• Rash looks infected

• Home treatment is not working

• Sleep is disrupted

• You suspect food allergy

• You are unsure about medicine use

Early treatment prevents long-term problems.

Why Parents in KL Choose Dr Nisa Khalil for Eczema Treatment

Parents trust Dr Nisa Khalil because:

• She sees pediatric eczema daily

• She explains treatment clearly

• She personalises care

• She avoids unnecessary medication

• She teaches parents long-term control plans

• She is trusted by hundreds of parents in KL

With 180+ five-star Google reviews, Dr. Nisa Khalil is among the top-rated paediatricians in Kuala Lumpur for childhood skin issues.

Pediatric Eczema Care at ParkCity Medical Centre, KL

Dr Nisa Khalil offers:

• Eczema evaluation

• Allergy screening guidance

• Medication plans

• Skin care education

• Long-term eczema control strategies

Located at ParkCity Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, the clinic provides a comfortable environment for children and parents.

Final Advice for Parents

Eczema is not your fault.

With correct treatment and daily skincare:

• Flares reduce

• Skin heals

• Sleep improves

• Confidence returns

• Quality of life improves

And you are no longer stuck guessing.

Book an Appointment with a Paediatrician for Eczema in KL

If your child suffers from ongoing rashes or eczema, Dr Nisa Khalil is ready to help.

📍 Clinic: ParkCity Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur
📲 Booking: www.drnisakhalil.com/appointment
📞 Phone: +60 123014736

Early treatment makes a big difference.