Which statement indicates proper home care for a child with eczema?

Which statement indicates proper home care for a child with eczema?

• A. Take hot baths to moisturize skin
• B. Apply a skin emollient immediately after bathing
• C. Use a detergent with fragrance
• D. Scrub the skin with a washcloth daily

Answer: (B)

Maintaining skin hydration to support the damaged skin barrier is the key. After bathing, the skin is primed to absorb moisture, so applying a skin emollient right away helps seal in water and restore barrier function, reducing dryness and itch. This immediate post-bath step is more effective than waiting, and continued use of a fragrance-free moisturizer helps prevent flare-ups. To protect eczema-prone skin, use lukewarm baths or short showers, pat the skin dry gently (not rubbing), and follow with an emollient while the skin is still damp. Also choose mild, fragrance-free cleansers and avoid harsh scrubbing. The other practices—hot baths, scented detergents, and daily scrubbing—tend to irritate and dry the skin, worsening eczema.

Maintaining skin hydration to support the damaged skin barrier is the key. After bathing, the skin is primed to absorb moisture, so applying a skin emollient right away helps seal in water and restore barrier function, reducing dryness and itch. This immediate post-bath step is more effective than waiting, and continued use of a fragrance-free moisturizer helps prevent flare-ups. To protect eczema-prone skin, use lukewarm baths or short showers, pat the skin dry gently (not rubbing), and follow with an emollient while the skin is still damp. Also choose mild, fragrance-free cleansers and avoid harsh scrubbing. The other practices—hot baths, scented detergents, and daily scrubbing—tend to irritate and dry the skin, worsening eczema.