Juvenile Plantar Eczema

If your little one suffers with eczema, chances are their poor little feet may be affected too. The condition is known as Juvenile Plantar eczema.

Sadly it’s very common, as eczema thrives in the sweat-prone, more moist areas of the body – which can obviously make feet a predictable place for it to appear.

Eczema anywhere on the body is no fun at all, but Juvenile Plantar eczema is a condition that can be especially uncomfortable for young children, so it’s important to find the best way to treat it.

What can provoke eczema on the feet?

Heat & humidity can make Juvenile Plantar eczema worse, so be sure to pay extra attention during warm weather periods, but equally during the colder months, as extra socks, wellies and even central heating can produce the same effects.

We all know how much children love to run around and play, and of course this should be encouraged – but do be aware that energetic activities are also more likely to result in extra perspiration on your child’s feet, so precautions should be taken.

Prevention is better than cure.

As with all sorts of eczema, there are things you can do to try to stop an outbreak before it begins. Shoes made from synthetic materials are less likely to let little feet breathe, and the same goes for socks – so choose carefully and go for natural, breathable fabrics wherever possible that are less likely to irrirate.

When you’re at home, let your little one be barefoot whenever possible, as keeping their feet in shoes and/or socks for long periods of time can also contribute to the problem.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of Juvenile Plantar eczema can range from red, irritated dry skin, to cracked or even bleeding feet. The big toes are often affected worse, which can make wearing shoes uncomfortable or painful. The condition can also cause clear, often painful blisters which can result in infection in more serious cases.

How can it be treated?

As we’ve covered already, prevention is often the best treatment.  Make sure your child only wears 100% cotton socks, and choose footwear in natural fabrics wherever possible.

Keep bathtime as natural as possible too – as unnecessary chemicals and fragrances can irritate eczema on the feet in the same way as they do anywhere else.  Be sure to use a soft towel to gently but completely dry your little one’s feet afterwards, paying special attention in between their toes.

It’s also very important to find an effective cream or lotion to treat the condition and offer relief when it flares up. As with all other eczema, this can involve a process of trial and error, but look for rich, organic formulas to lock in as much moisture as possible.

As always, if your child is suffering or the symptoms seem to be getting worse, don’t hesitate to contact your GP.