Atopic dermatitis in children
Recognising and treating atopic dermatitis in children – with an experienced paediatric dermatologist at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity
Atopic dermatitis in children
Chronische Abszesse und schmerzhafte Knoten durch erfahrenen Hautarzt abklären und behandeln in der Derma Medical Clinic in Zürich - Sihlcity
Carefully examine and treat eczema in children—especially if skin irritation such as itchy or dry patches keeps coming back or previous therapies have not achieved the desired results
Examinations
Thorough skin examination
Assessment of the skin’s appearance
Allergy tests if needed
Procedure
Personal consultation
Thorough skin examination
Creation of a treatment plan
Duration
between 20 and 30 minutes
Atopic dermatitis in children at a glance
What is atopic dermatitis in children?
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that is common in children.
It presents as dry, rough, reddened patches of skin that itch intensely, often in the elbow creases, behind the knees, on the face or neck.
Typical are phases when symptoms worsen (flare-ups), followed by calmer periods.
A careful assessment is particularly advisable if:
- recurring eczema occurs with severe itching, redness or dryness
- Skin irritation does not heal despite regular care or gets worse
- the symptoms affect the child’s sleep or daily life
- you are unsure whether it is actually atopic dermatitis or another skin condition
- recurring inflammation or infections of the skin occur
What is atopic dermatitis in children?
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that is common in children.
It presents as dry, rough, reddened patches of skin that itch intensely, often in the elbow creases, behind the knees, on the face or neck.
Typical are phases when symptoms worsen (flare-ups), followed by calmer periods.
When is an assessment for atopic dermatitis in children useful?
A careful assessment is particularly advisable if:
- recurring eczema occurs with severe itching, redness or dryness
- Skin irritation does not heal despite regular care or gets worse
- the symptoms affect the child’s sleep or daily life
- you are unsure whether it is actually atopic dermatitis or another skin condition
- recurring inflammation or infections of the skin occur
Treatment
At Derma Medical Clinic, every treatment begins with a careful skin examination. Our specialised paediatric dermatologist checks whether it is actually atopic dermatitis—an important step, as skin changes in children often look similar.
The skin’s appearance, extent and possible infections are assessed thoroughly. Depending on the findings, additional allergy tests may be useful to better identify triggers and confirm the diagnosis.
What happens during the treatment of atopic dermatitis in children?
Treatment is always tailored individually and includes:
- a well-designed skincare plan with lipid-replenishing creams and lotions
- anti-inflammatory measures, e.g. cortisone-containing or other anti-inflammatory creams
- if needed, additional therapies such as UV treatment or medication
- advice on triggers and everyday tips (e.g. clothing, detergents, diet)
How does the treatment work?
Important: The examination is carried out calmly, at the child’s pace. Examinations or treatments only take place when the child feels safe. No one is pressured—instead, we respond with patience and experience to the child’s behaviour and mood.
Personal consultation
First, the child’s medical history, previous therapies and current symptoms are recorded carefully.
Thorough skin examination
The skin is assessed in detail: distribution, extent, typical features and possible signs of infection.
Individual advice and treatment planning
Based on the examination results, a treatment plan is created.
Child-friendly implementation
Treatment is age-appropriate. Parents receive clear instructions for daily skincare.
Follow-up appointments
Regular follow-ups ensure the therapy is working well and can be adjusted if needed.
At Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity, children are treated by Dr Markus Dendorfer – Specialist in Dermatology and specialised paediatric dermatologist.
He brings many years of experience in child-friendly skin diagnostics and treatment, and is particularly skilled at responding to the individual needs of young patients.
Dr. med. Benjamin Miller
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology & Venereology FMH
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology & Venereology FMH
What you can expect from us
Specialised paediatric dermatology
Treatment by an experienced paediatric dermatologist with a focus on atopic dermatitis and other childhood eczema.
Thorough diagnostics
Careful assessment of the skin and—if required—additional allergy tests for a reliable diagnosis and to identify possible triggers.
Individually tailored therapy
A plan combining skincare, anti-inflammatory treatment and practical everyday tips—always adapted to age and skin condition.
Child-friendly implementation
Plenty of patience, empathy and a calm process ensure children and parents feel well cared for.
Everything under one roof
Diagnostics, therapy and follow-up monitoring take place directly at the clinic—without extra trips or long waiting times.
Would you like clarity on whether your child’s skin changes are due to atopic dermatitis, and child-friendly treatment with plenty of patience?
Book an appointment now in our specialised paediatric clinic at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about treating atopic dermatitis in children
What is atopic dermatitis in children?
Atopic dermatitis (medical term: atopic eczema) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It causes dry, reddened skin and severe itching and is particularly common in children.
How do you recognise atopic dermatitis in children?
Typical signs are dry, scaly and reddened patches of skin—often in the elbow creases, behind the knees, on the face or on the neck. Severe itching is almost always part of it.
What triggers atopic dermatitis flare-ups in children?
Possible triggers include cold, heat, stress, certain foods, pollen, animal hair or rough clothing. Everyone reacts differently, so an individual assessment is recommended.
How is atopic dermatitis treated in children?
Treatment combines consistent skincare with lipid-replenishing creams and—if needed—anti-inflammatory therapies such as cortisone-containing or other anti-inflammatory ointments. The goal is to relieve symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Which skincare is important for atopic dermatitis?
Regular application of special skincare products for atopic dermatitis strengthens the skin barrier and helps prevent new flare-ups.
Is atopic dermatitis in children curable?
Atopic dermatitis is considered not curable, but it can be treated well. In many children, symptoms improve with age or even disappear completely.
Can diet affect atopic dermatitis?
Some children are sensitive to certain foods. An allergy test can help identify possible connections. However, foods should only be avoided on medical advice.
What helps with severe itching?
Cool compresses, anti-itch creams and consistent skincare provide relief. Keeping fingernails short helps prevent scratching the skin.
When is a visit to a dermatologist advisable?
If flare-ups occur frequently, the skin is severely inflamed, or symptoms do not improve despite skincare, a dermatologist should take over further treatment.
