Skin complaints

 







 DO

• Actively look for skin abnormalities by examining the entire skin.
• Give children without skin abnormalities usual skin care without restrictions of washing and bathing.
• Use ointments applicable to the condition of the skin.
• When choosing between a cream or oily ointment, consider conditions such as hot/cold weather.
• Use products with as few additives as possible.
• Prevent skin irritation by: 
  • Ensuring that the child's, parents' and caregivers' nails are short. If necessary, have the child wear cotton gloves while sleeping to avoid the effects of scratching. 
  • Ensuring a cool ambient temperature and preventing children from being dressed too warmly.  
  • Advise against prolonged washing, bathing and showering, using lukewarm water and preferably no soap. After washing, dab skin dry and do not rub with a towel.

  DO

• Give child and parents understandable information about prevention and treatment of dry skin and factors that adversely affect dry skin.

• To prevent dry skin, consider: 
  • Using a soap-free wash emulsion with neutral pH and/or bath or shower oil and without dyes and fragrances.
  • Do not use soap and/or bath products with high pH.
• For dry skin, consider: 
  • A bath/shower frequency of 2/3 times per week. 
  • A bath/shower water no warmer than 37 degrees Celsius. 
  • Rubbing the skin regularly with an ointment or cream. 
  • Using bath/shower oil.

  DO

• Give the following advice to prevent diaper dermatitis in children: 
  • Make use of disposable diapers. 
  • Change diapers regularly (every 2 hours if necessary, except at night). 
  • Gently cleanse the skin after each urine/faeces discharge with soap-free and alcohol-free wipes or with a cotton washcloth and lukewarm water (possibly with a soap-free wash gel or oil). 
  • Use zinc ointment FNA to protect the skin.

  DO

• Use zinc oxide ointments in children with diaper dermatitis/intertrigo.

 
 DO

• In children with (persistent) diaper dermatitis or intertrigo, treat fungal infection with miconazole 2% cream or ointment 2 times daily for 2 to 3 weeks.