Contact dermatitis in children

Dermatitis is very common in children and affects at least 20% of all children. Babies are often exposed to specific products that may cause contact dermatitis, such as diapers and tear-free shampoos. As children grow older, they may develop allergic contact dermatitis to new irritants. On the other hand, children can also outgrow their allergies to certain things. Therefore, infants and children with chronic dermatitis should be routinely tested as they grow older.

Many irritants or allergens can cause contact dermatitis in children.

Causes of contact dermatitis in babies:

• Foods (milk, wheat, soy, peanuts)
• Antibiotic creams
• Soaps or shampoos
• Sunscreen or any type of lotions
• Diaper and baby wipes
• Clothing
• Nail polish or jewelry
• Fragrances
• Plastics or latex
• Glues or adhesives
• Band-aids

Patch testing in children is recommended if the child has experienced chronic dermatitis for more than two months, or if the skin condition is worsening. It is important for parents to try to document what irritants might cause contact dermatitis in children. It is often helpful to bring a sample of the irritant when visiting the doctor.