Kids’ Eczema and Winter Skin: A Dermatologist Mom’s Guide
By Dr. Katherine Nolan, MD FAAD
Board-Certified Dermatologist • Founder of Carabella Dermatology
When Dry Weather Meets Sensitive Skin
Cold, dry Indiana winters can be tough on little ones’ skin — and I know this personally.
Both of my daughters have eczema, and every year when the heat turns on, their skin starts to itch and flare. Over the years, I’ve learned that keeping kids comfortable requires a mix of science, gentle care, and a few creative tricks to make it fun.
Why Eczema Flares in Winter
Eczema (or atopic dermatitis) is a chronic, itchy condition where the skin barrier is weaker than normal.
During winter, humidity drops and indoor heating dries the air, allowing water to escape from the skin more easily.
Other common triggers include:
Harsh soaps or bubble baths
Fragrance or dye in laundry detergent
Hot baths and scratchy fabrics
Seasonal allergies, illness, or stress
When the barrier breaks down, the skin becomes red, rough, and itchy — and kids start scratching, which only makes things worse.
Sensitive-Skin Essentials
Gentle, fragrance-free care makes all the difference. In our house and my practice, I recommend:
Cleansers: Dove Sensitive Skin Bar
Moisturizers: CeraVe Healing Ointment, Vaseline, or Vaniply
Laundry care: All Free & Clear or Free & Gentle detergents — skip dryer sheets and fabric softeners
Shampoo: Free & Clear Shampoo or Dove Sensitive Scalp
Bathing: quick, lukewarm showers, not long hot ones
Apply moisturizer within one minute of towel-drying to seal in water.
Natural and Supportive Options
Some families are interested in gentle, complementary options that can help support the skin barrier:
Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) may help balance the immune system.
Beef tallow-based balms can be soothing for certain dry spots — just ensure they’re pure and unscented.
Vitamin D levels often drop in winter; talk with your pediatrician or dermatologist about supplementation.
Natural sunlight in moderation can calm inflammation for some children. Always pair with safe sun habits.
Fabrics and Fun Therapy at Home
Dress kids in soft cotton layers and avoid wool or rough seams.
Try wet-pajama therapy on bad nights: after bathing and applying ointment, slip on damp cotton pajamas under a dry pair. It helps lock in moisture and calm itch.
To make it fun, let kids decorate small jars of ointment with stickers or labels — giving them “their own cream” helps them feel in control and more willing to participate.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your child’s eczema is spreading, keeping them up at night, or not improving with gentle care, prescription options can bring relief.
At Carabella Dermatology, I create customized pediatric plans — from soothing topical treatments to non-steroidal creams and barrier repair therapies — all in a calm, family-friendly environment.
Helping Little Ones Feel Comfortable Again
Eczema can be challenging, but with the right daily routine and medical guidance, flare-ups can become far less frequent. Consistency and gentle care go a long way toward restoring healthy, happy skin.
Schedule a Pediatric Skin Visit
Carabella Dermatology in Carmel, Indiana offers flexible after-school and weekend appointments for busy parents.
Book online or text 317-778-5030 to schedule your visit.
Carabella Dermatology
Medical • Cosmetic • Hair • Pediatrics
Dr. Katherine Nolan, MD FAAD — Board-Certified Dermatologist
Carmel, Indiana | www.carabelladermatology.com