Dear Trina
Thank you for your question about your son. As you probably know - eczema is a chronic condition - which sometimes requires constant care. Most often a mild to moderate strength steroid cream or ointment (like Westcort or Desonide) can control a child's eczema, but not always. Sometimes vigorous lubrication with a neutral lotion - applied daily (or even twice a day) to wet skin - yes, WET skin - can help. The idea is to trap in the moisture - and then use the steroid cream as needed. Sometimes a stronger steroid cream is prescribed for a short term - just to break the cycle. Other times a diet change can make a difference - as in removing dairy, or at the very least, by restricting dairy products. Once in a while a short course of antibiotics can temporarily improve the eczema.
If your son is having pigment changes and his knees, elbows, and wrists are also being affected - I would suggest taking him back to his doctor to reevaluate his eczema. It might be that your son would also benefit from seeing a Pediatric Dermatologist to help your doctor in designing a treatment plan. Meanwhile - I would suggest using neutral soaps, mild detergents - if you aren't already doing so. If your son is scratching - consider using antihistamines, like Benadryl, at night. Whatever you choose to do - I would encourage you to work with your child's doctor - since he/she knows your child best. Hope this helps. Dr. EV
i just realized there is great info on eczema in the archives. Sorry for the inconvenience.