About Eczema
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a common skin condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, red and cracked. It affects approximately one in five children in the UK.
Eczema is a chronic condition that typically flares up and then settles. It ranges from mild to severe. In severe cases, eczema can significantly affect a child's quality of life, sleep, concentration and emotional wellbeing. The condition is often associated with other atopic conditions such as asthma and hay fever.
Most children manage their eczema with regular use of emollients (moisturisers) and topical treatments prescribed by their GP or dermatologist. An Individual Healthcare Plan may be appropriate for pupils with moderate to severe eczema.
Common Triggers
Triggers vary between individuals but may include:
- Soaps, detergents and cleaning products
- Certain fabrics (especially wool and synthetic materials)
- House dust mites
- Pollen and pet dander
- Extremes of temperature or humidity
- Sweating (particularly during PE or in overheated classrooms)
- Stress, anxiety and emotional upset
- Certain foods (in some children)
- Sand, water play materials or craft materials
- Chlorinated swimming pool water
Impact on School Life
- Itching can be intensely distracting and affect concentration
- Disturbed sleep due to itching can lead to tiredness during the school day
- Visible eczema can affect self-esteem and lead to self-consciousness, particularly in older children
- Some children experience teasing or bullying related to their skin
- Flare-ups may cause absence from school
- The need to apply creams during the school day can feel embarrassing
- Activities involving water, sand or certain materials may cause discomfort
Classroom and School Strategies
Daily Management
- Allow the pupil to apply emollients during the school day in a private space, with parental consent and following the school's medicines policy
- Ensure the pupil has access to their prescribed creams at all times
- Allow the pupil to wash hands with their own emollient rather than school soap, which may irritate their skin
- Provide access to cool water if the skin becomes hot or itchy
- Maintain comfortable classroom temperatures; avoid overheating
- Allow the pupil to wear cotton clothing next to the skin if school uniform fabrics cause irritation
In the Classroom
- Be patient if the pupil is scratching; they may not be able to control it
- Offer discreet movement breaks to allow the pupil to manage discomfort
- Be alert to tiredness and reduced concentration due to poor sleep
- Provide alternatives for craft activities that involve irritant materials
- Allow the pupil to wear gloves for messy activities if needed
- Avoid drawing attention to the pupil's skin condition
Physical Education and Swimming
- Allow the pupil to apply emollient before and after PE
- Be aware that sweating may trigger a flare-up; allow breaks to cool down
- For swimming, the pupil may need to apply a barrier cream before entering the pool and shower and apply emollient afterwards
- Consider allowing the pupil to wear a rash vest to reduce skin exposure to chlorine
- Do not exclude the pupil from PE or swimming without consulting parents
Social and Emotional Support
- Be aware of the emotional impact of visible eczema, particularly during adolescence
- Address any teasing or bullying promptly and sensitively
- Promote understanding among peers without singling out the pupil
- Be flexible about uniform rules if these exacerbate the condition
- Offer pastoral support if the pupil's self-esteem is affected
Further Information and Resources
National Eczema Society provides schools guidance, factsheets and support for families.
NHS information on eczema offers accessible medical information.