Can getting walls painted cause breakouts and rashes?

Question

Hello doctor,

Could painting our interior walls cause our 6-year-old to break out in a rash on her face? She has had mild eczema since she was a baby and is seen sometimes on her legs and arms. Shortly after we painted, a patchy rash appeared all over her face but nowhere else. If this is the cause, what can we do? It has now been three weeks? What to do?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Yes, it is very common for an eczematous child to get a reaction or allergy to any chemical. And yes, paint does contain such an ingredient which can irritate the child's skin. Keep the child's skin well moisturized by applying Vaseline. I suggest applying 1 % Hydrocortisone cream two times a day for seven days. Consult your child's specialist doctor, discuss with him or her and start using the medicines with their consent. It is persisting for three weeks because air has paint particles which are continuously irritating her skin. Take her away for a week or so, if possible.

I hope this helps.

Thanks.