Kerryn Boogaard Kerryn Boogaard
Beverly Goldsmith Beverly Goldsmith
Zoe Bingley-Pullin Zoe Bingley-Pullin

Clean lifestyle can contribute to eczema:

The 'hygiene hypothesis' is likely to be relevant to eczema, as well as to allergies and asthma.
By Motherpedia
Date: September 05 2013
Tags: health, eczema,
Editor Rating:
baby_-_mum

A study from the Institute of Child Health at Bristol University in the UK has confirmed the 'hygiene hypothesis' which suggests that children who are too clean are more susceptible to developing allergies and asthma.

In this study that looked at more than 11,000 children, it was found that children of parents with the highest standards of cleanliness are up to three times more likely to develop allergies and skin problems such as eczema. The study found that children with eczema were most likely to be the cleanest and the most washed.

Experts believe that higher levels of hygiene are contributing to the rise in allergies and asthma because the immune system ‘fails to wake up’ and that early exposure to germs gives children protection against developing allergic conditions. The so-called 'hygiene hypothesis' - which some scientists challenge - suggests coming into contact with simple grime and dirt may actually be good for you as it stimulates the immune system.

“The bottom line is that hygiene is important to prevent disease and illness, but too much disinfection may actually have a negative effect for some kids,” says Australian dermatologist, Dr Ann-Maree Kurzydlo.

“Obviously genetic factors are still the main culprit when it comes down to the root cause of eczema and allergies but over-bathing, including the use of anti-bacterial soaps and regular use of hand sanitizers, may be doing more harm than good.”

What is eczema?

  • It is a common skin condition that usually begins before a baby turns 12 months old. The affected skin is dry, red and itchy. Sometimes these areas of the skin can become cracked, weepy and scab over. 
  • It has tripled in Australia during the past three decades.
  • Up to 30% of children and 10% adults are affected. 
  • The condition can be debilitating and a constant source of irritation, pain and, in some cases, embarrassment. People with eczema are likely to require continuing treatment to manage the condition.
  • The Eczema Association of Australasia has stated that 20% of people will develop eczema before the age of five.

What are the symptoms in children?

  • Babies usually have a red, dry rash on their face. The rash is sometimes on their scalp, behind their ears, on their body and arms and legs. The rash is very itchy.
  • In toddlers and older children, the rash is often in the skin creases around the knees, wrists, elbows and ankles.
  • Eczema can involve any part of the surface of the skin and in some children the rash can cover the entire skin.
  • You will notice that at times your child's skin is well controlled and at other times it gets worse. It is common for the eczema to fluctuate, which is why it is important to manage the eczema effectively and control it as soon as it flares up.

What can be done to relieve symptoms?

  • At present, 56% of moderate to severe eczema sufferers have some sort of filaggrin deficiency which means a break down of the skin barrier. 
  • Using a moisturising product which puts moisture back into your skin and helps increase skin barrier integrity. It may help skin to manage and repair eczema damage. One recommended product is Cetaphil Restoraderm which is available online or at selected pharmacists.
  • Sufferers of eczema are advised to avoid soaps, detergents, shampoos and abrasive cleaners, use emollients regularly and wear protective gloves when washing or using cleaning products.

You should see your medical practitioner for a diagnosis and recommended management of eczema.

Share This Tweet This Email To Friend
Related Articles
playing_in_mud
Letting little girls get dirty is not only fun, but…
Read more
washing_hands
New research challenges the idea that children need exposure to…
Read more
thick_skinned_hippos
Skin is the largest organ in the body and is…
Read more
Cry babies

Dry your eyes!
The newest additions are on their way from the Babies who cry real tears!

Shipping-containers-freight-wallpaper-preview

Latest Tech Used In Shipping Containers
Read how the shipping industry has revolutionised

Motherpedia cover-2

Win 1 set of a 4-book hardcover illustrated boxed set
Barbara Murray’s new 4-book Sound Stories is perfect for parents and educators and could assist with NAPLAN results

Motherpedia cover (4)

Where to celebrate Oktoberfest Australia
Get ready for this celebration!

Motherpedia cover-4

A Fortnight of Foodie Experiences at East Village
A taste of East Village. What's in it for me?

Globber my too fix up cover

We Try: Globber My TOO Fix Up
A scooter that grows with your child

Throw a winning cricket pitch

3 Steps to a Winning Backyard Cricket Pitch
Ex-Adelaide Oval legend curator Les Burdett shares his tips for getting your backyard cricket pitch test match ready this summer

A bike that follows your kids life cycle - motherpedia - cover

A Bike That Follows Your Kids Life Cycle
Check out the Bunzi 2-in-1 gradual balance bike!

Moonlight lifestyle

Moonlight Cinema to bring…
Moonlight Cinema announces brand new Western Sydney venue

Screen shot 2019-11-26 at 8.29.12 am

Your Magical Christmas Wonderland…
Adventure park is about to light up the night sky with its "Christmas Festival of Lights"

Screen shot 2019-11-21 at 11.11.36 am

The Preston Market Gets…
It's time to feel pumped up for the holiday season!

Bruno-kelzer-zqzuigxcvrq-unsplash

Bunnings team members get…
Help raise funds by buying a snag or donating at your local store.