Download Allergies and Skin Rashes - National Foundation for Ectodermal

National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias
Allergies and Skin Rashes
In general, skin rashes that are caused by having sensitive or irritable skin do become less troublesome as
children get older. If the rashes are due to excessive dryness, simple skin care measures such as bathing daily
with a superfatted soap (Dove, Camay, Neutrogena, Basis) when soap is necessary and/or bath oil and
application of a cream or ointment lubricant (Petroleum Jelly, Eucerin, Nutraderm, Fougera Hydrophilic
Ointment, Cetaphil, Lubriderm, Purpose, Curel and Complex 15) right after the bath and whenever else the skin
seems dry may alleviate much of the problem.
Some ED patients have persistent itchy dermatitis (eczema) that does not improve with the above measures.
These patients may have more than one problem; they may have dry sensitive skin because of their ED, but also
may be from families that are prone to asthma, hay fever, allergies and eczema. In these instances, the skin
problem may be more severe and may require management by a dermatologist or allergist. Atopic eczema can
be a persistent severe skin problem that is very difficult to control, even in children without ED. If over-thecounter hydrocortisone ointment does not improve the rash, it is important to see a physician who may need to
prescribe stronger medications and can sometimes tell if specific allergies are playing a role. Generally, exzema
can be controlled but it can not be cured. Eczema usually becomes less severe with time, but people who have
dry, sensitive skin have it for life and usually learn to avoid aggravating environmental factors such as harsh or
extreme weather conditions, itchy clothing and highly perfumed cleansers and skin creams.
Nancy B. Esterly, MD
Medical College of Wisconsin
Virginia P. Sybert, M.D.
University of Washington
Group Health Permenente
Update 04
The content of this document is for informational purposes only. Questions regarding specific patient issues
should be directed to the appropriate professionals for resolution.