Girl's Summer

Newer immunomodulators or steroid-free topical medications are available to treat children with eczema, including Elidel and Protopic. They are generally used twice a day in children over age two and can be applied to all areas where your child has eczema, including his face. They may also help avoid flares if you then begin using them at the first sign of itching or a rash.

Antihistamines are also often used as part of a good treatment regimen for eczema. They are particularly helpful if itching is interfering with your child's sleep, in which case a sedating antihistamine, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine hydrochloride) or Atarax (hydroxyzine hydrochloride), may work well. Cold compresses can also be effective at helping your child control his scratching when his skin itches.