Beyond the Rash: Healing Pediatric Eczema From the Inside Out

If you’re a parent of a child with eczema, you know how heartbreaking it can be to see your little one scratching, uncomfortable, and dealing with inflamed, irritated skin. You’ve probably tried every lotion, cream, and prescription steroid available, only to find that the relief is temporary. That’s because eczema is more than just a skin problem—it’s an internal issue that requires deeper investigation.

Understanding Pediatric Eczema

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is one of the most common skin conditions in children. It often starts in infancy or early childhood and is characterized by dry, red, itchy skin. While the exact cause varies from child to child, research shows that eczema is closely linked to immune dysregulation, gut imbalances, and environmental triggers.

Common symptoms include:
✅ Red, inflamed, dry, or scaly skin
✅ Itching (which can lead to scratching, making the rash worse)
✅ Cracked or weeping skin (which can become infected)
✅ Flare-ups that come and go

The Gut-Skin Connection: Why Digestion Matters

Eczema isn’t just about the skin—it's a sign that something deeper is off balance. One of the most overlooked connections in pediatric eczema is gut health. The digestive system plays a critical role in immune function and inflammation. When the gut is compromised—due to imbalanced gut bacteria, food sensitivities, or poor digestion—it can trigger inflammation throughout the body, often showing up as eczema.

Key Gut Factors That Affect Eczema:
🦠 Gut Dysbiosis – An imbalance of beneficial and harmful bacteria in the gut can lead to systemic inflammation and skin flare-ups.
🍽️ Food Sensitivities – Common triggers include dairy, gluten, eggs, soy, and processed foods. These can cause an immune response that exacerbates eczema symptoms.
🩸 Leaky Gut – When the gut lining becomes too permeable, unwanted particles enter the bloodstream, leading to chronic inflammation and skin issues.
🚫 Histamine Intolerance – Some children with eczema are sensitive to histamine-rich foods (like fermented foods, tomatoes, and citrus), which can trigger flare-ups.

Why Stool Testing is a Game-Changer for Eczema

Topical treatments can provide temporary relief, but if you want to truly heal your child’s eczema, we have to start with the gut. This is where comprehensive stool testing comes in. Instead of guessing which food might be causing a reaction or throwing probiotics at the problem, stool testing gives us clear answers about your child’s digestive and immune health.

What Stool Testing Can Reveal:
✅ Bacterial Imbalances – Are there enough good bacteria to keep inflammation in check?
✅ Yeast or Parasites – Overgrowth of yeast or harmful parasites can contribute to skin issues.
✅ Digestive Function – Is your child absorbing nutrients properly, or is there inflammation in the gut?
✅ Immune Markers – Is the immune system overactive, leading to chronic inflammation?

A Holistic Approach to Pediatric Eczema

While steroid creams and antihistamines may provide temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause. Instead, we focus on healing from the inside out with targeted gut support, nutrition, and gentle, natural treatments.

Here’s what I recommend for my pediatric patients with eczema:

🌿 Targeted Gut Healing – Based on stool testing, we can use specific probiotics, digestive support, and antimicrobial treatments if necessary.

🥑 Anti-Inflammatory Diet – Removing common food triggers and incorporating nutrient-dense, whole foods can reduce eczema flare-ups.

💧 Hydration & Skin Barrier Repair – Using natural, non-toxic moisturizers like shea butter or tallow balm can support the skin’s protective barrier. Meet the skin where it is at. Is it dry eczema or weepy eczema? The type determines the type of topicals you should use.

☀️ Vitamin D & Essential Nutrients – Kids with eczema can be low in vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc, all of which are critical for skin health. Test if necessary.

🛁 Gentle Skincare Routine – Do not overscrub or overwash (Bathing more will not help). Avoiding synthetic fragrances, detergents, and harsh soaps can prevent irritation. Colloidal oatmeal or Epsom salt baths can soothe itchy skin. 

😴 Addressing Stress & Sleep – Poor sleep and stress can make eczema worse. Ensuring a calm bedtime routine and supporting the nervous system can be a game-changer.

Other Hidden Triggers to Consider

If eczema persists despite addressing gut health, there may be other factors at play, such as:

☣️ Mold exposure – Indoor mold can trigger inflammation and eczema flare-ups.
🦠 Chronic infections (like Lyme disease or viral load) – Sometimes, underlying infections stress the immune system.
🔬 Environmental toxins – Chemicals in household products, plastics, and even baby wipes can contribute to skin irritation.

The Bottom Line: We Don’t Just “Manage” Eczema—We Heal It

Your child deserves more than just another round of steroid creams. Eczema is a sign that something inside the body needs attention, and as a naturopathic doctor, I help parents uncover the root cause and create a plan for long-term healing.

If your child is struggling with eczema and you’re ready to take a deeper, more holistic approach, let’s talk. Together, we can get to the root of the issue and restore your child’s skin (and gut!) health.

Here to empower you with the knowledge of healthiness and happiness 

Dr. Meg

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This post is not meant to treat, cure, prevent, or diagnose conditions or diseases and is meant for educational purposes. As always, please consult your doctor before trying any new treatments or supplements.