Written in partnership with Dr. Clarence De Belilovsky, Dermatologist and member of the Mustela expert circle
SLEEP DISTURBANCES AND EXTREMELY DRY SKIN
Sleep disturbances are one of the symptoms of atopic eczema. And once atopic eczema has developed, itching is one of the reasons for sleep problems. To try to soothe your baby when the itching isn't yet present but is starting, cuddles and your gentle voice will undoubtedly be the most comforting remedy, along with specific emollient baby and child care products that help prevent it from occurring.
ATOPIC FLARE-UP AND REDNESS: WHAT CAN BE DONE TO IMPROVE BABY'S SLEEP?
Are redness signs already present? Emollient creams can immediately reduce itching. Don't hesitate to reapply, even if you've already moisturized your child before bedtime.
Just avoid areas that are oozing. In that case, the ointments prescribed by your doctor will be more suitable. This moment can help calm your child. To help them fall asleep, you can take advantage of this last step to give them a little massage.
If he's old enough to understand, you can explain what's happening and reassure him that the itching will eventually go away. You can also tell him a story. This will help him focus on something else and therefore reduce his discomfort. Finally, don't hesitate to turn down the heating if it's a little warm. Ideally, keep the temperature at 18°C at night to avoid overly dry air.
Some parts of the body are more or less affected depending on the age. If your baby cannot tell you precisely where it itches, if they cry too much, or if they are not yet speaking, it will be up to you to carefully examine their little body to spot the red patches and provide any care that might soothe them in case of flare-ups:
- Before one year , carefully observe these small chubby areas (cheeks, forehead), its arms and its belly.
- After a year , extremely dry skin prefers the folds: on the elbows, on the legs or even behind the ears.
- Between three and four years old , and up to about five or six years old , she will also like to settle on the hands and face, around the mouth or on the eyelids.
Once emollient treatments are applied, itching can disappear in up to 95% of cases with certain formulas, such as Stelatopia Emollient Balm or Emollient Cream. Your child should therefore feel calmer.
Especially since the massage sensation he felt may also have soothed him.
That will make it easier to get back to a good night's sleep!
