Answer:

Atopic dermatitis weakens a child's skin barrier, making it prone to dehydration, dryness, and vulnerability to external factors like allergens and bacteria, leading to inflammation, itching, and redness. This condition can be caused by genetics, immune system disorders, or a lack of natural skin lipids that maintain moisture. Children's immune systems tend to overreact to environmental factors, causing inflammation, itching, and redness.

Triggers for flare-ups include dry or hot weather, reactions to soaps, shampoos, or detergents, and allergies to food, pet dander, pollen, dust mites, or excessive sweating.

Summer heat and sweat can exacerbate itching and worsen the condition. Before your trip, schedule a check-up with your doctor to assess your child's skin and obtain necessary preventative medication for potential flare-ups.

While traveling, continue using your child's regular moisturizer. Changes in environment and exposure to sun and wind can dry their skin more than usual. Apply it after bathing, sun exposure, or whenever their skin feels dry. Pack their usual mild, soap-free cleanser. Avoid using hotel products as they may contain fragrances or foaming agents that can cause irritation.

Use a hypoallergenic sunscreen formulated for children with sensitive skin, free of fragrances, alcohol, and parabens. Physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are preferred. Test the sunscreen at home by applying it to a small area, like the inner wrist, a few days before the trip to ensure there's no allergic reaction.

Dress your child in loose, lightweight, breathable 100% cotton clothing. Pack long-sleeved, long-legged UV-protective swimwear for better skin protection. Also, bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a separate towel.

Dress your child in long-sleeved swimwear to prevent atopic dermatitis flare-ups. Photo illustration: Ngoc Nguyen

Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, ensuring a thick, even layer on all exposed skin. Limit sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM). Opt for beach time in the early morning or late afternoon. Maintain a cool, comfortable room temperature (around 25-26°C) in the hotel. If the air is too dry, place a bowl of water in the room.

Allow your child to play in the seawater, which has mild antiseptic properties and can soothe some children's skin. However, if your child has scratches from itching, saltwater can sting. Observe their reaction. Rinse them with fresh water after swimming. Avoid prolonged seawater exposure and contact with hot sand.

Sweat can trigger itching and flare-ups. Keep your child cool, hydrated, and gently wipe away sweat with a soft, damp cloth. Monitor their skin for increased dryness, redness, or itching. If these occur, apply the prescribed medication as directed. Contact your doctor for advice if any unusual symptoms arise during the trip.

MSc. MD Le Thi Hong Hue

Pediatrics Department, Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7