Why does my 4-year-old’s armpit rash keep coming back?

Question

Hi doctor,

My 4-year-old son has a recurring red rash under the left armpit, which is itchy and painful. It started about a year ago, and it comes and goes.

I first noticed the rash about a year ago, shortly after he had been playing and used his dad’s scented deodorant. Thinking that might have triggered it, I immediately threw the deodorant away. However, the rash has continued to come back since then, so I am not sure whether that was the original cause or just a coincidence.

I rub Aveeno baby eczema therapy moisturizing cream with colloidal oatmeal. When it flares up, it seems to help with the itching. My son suffers from eczema and cold-induced wheezing, which I believe is a form of asthma.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It is sad that your child is going through this skin issue.

I saw the picture (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), and it looks like eczema, specifically atopic eczema. Eczema flares up during winter when the skin becomes dry. The key is to keep the skin moisturized with a good moisturizer containing ceramide. Ceramide is essential for skin barrier function. It helps to heal the rashes faster.

Please use a gentle, moisturizing soap while bathing him, and apply a good moisturizer immediately after showering while the skin is still slightly damp. At night, apply Hydrocortisone 1 % cream in a thin layer over the rashes for one week only, and continue using moisturizer in the morning.

Avoid hot showers and use only lukewarm water. You may also consider using a cool mist humidifier in his room to prevent dryness. Dress him in soft cotton clothing, making sure the inner layer touching his skin is cotton. If you have pets at home, try to keep them away from them for now. Also, does he have similar rashes in other skin folds, such as behind the knees, around the neck folds, or in front of the elbows?

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.