Insect Bites and Eczema: What Parents Should Know

Brought to you by Fend Insect Repellent in partnership with Eczema Association New Zealand.

Insect bites and eczema can be a particularly uncomfortable combination for children with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. A small bite can cause significant itching, and the urge to scratch may further irritate skin that is already vulnerable.

For families managing childhood eczema, preventing bites where possible and knowing what to do when they happen can help reduce additional irritation and protect the skin barrier, especially during the warmer months when children are spending more time outdoors.

Why insect bites and eczema can be a difficult combination

When an insect bites, the body's immune response can cause itching, redness and swelling around the affected area.

For children with eczema, that itching can add to an already familiar problem. Scratching may further damage the skin barrier, increase inflammation and, if the skin becomes broken, increase the risk of infection.

Mosquitoes, sandflies and other biting insects are a familiar part of spending time outdoors in New Zealand. Sandfly bites in particular can be intensely itchy, which may be especially difficult for children who already have sensitive or reactive skin.

Preventing bites where possible can therefore be a useful part of looking after eczema-prone skin.

Preventing insect bites when your child has eczema

Physical protection is a good place to start.

Lightweight, loose-fitting long sleeves and pants can help reduce the amount of exposed skin when biting insects are around. Insect screens and mosquito netting around prams and sleeping areas can provide another layer of protection without requiring a product to be applied directly to the skin.

When using an insect repellent, choose a product that is appropriate for your child's age and always follow the directions on the individual product label.

If your child has eczema, take extra care around areas where the skin is actively inflamed, broken, weeping or irritated. Avoid applying insect repellent directly to these areas unless advised otherwise by your child's healthcare professional and permitted by the product directions.

If you're unsure which type of repellent is appropriate for your child, particularly for babies, young children or children with very sensitive skin, speak with your GP, dermatologist or pharmacist.

What is IR3535?

IR3535, also known as ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate, is an active ingredient used in some insect repellents, including Fend Insect Repellent.

It works as a repellent, helping to prevent biting insects from locating and landing on the skin.

Different insect repellents contain different active ingredients and concentrations, so one product may not be suitable for every child or every situation. Check the individual product label carefully and follow its age restrictions, application instructions and safety precautions.

In New Zealand, always follow the directions provided on the product label when using insect repellents. The New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) also provides information about insect repellents and their safe use.

What to do if your child is bitten

Even with good preparation, insect bites can still happen.

If your child is bitten, try to discourage scratching as much as possible. Applying a clean, cool damp cloth or cool compress to the area may help soothe the skin and provide some relief from itching.

Keeping fingernails short can also help minimise skin damage from scratching, particularly for younger children who may scratch without realising it.

Continue your child's usual eczema skincare routine where appropriate. If you're unsure about applying moisturisers, prescribed topical eczema treatments or other products around an insect bite, speak with your GP, dermatologist or pharmacist.

Keep an eye on the affected area over the following days. Increasing redness, warmth, pain, swelling, discharge or pus can be signs that the skin has become infected and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Seek urgent medical assistance if your child develops symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, or collapse.

Helping children with eczema enjoy the outdoors

Living with eczema doesn't mean children need to miss out on exploring and enjoying the outdoors.

When it comes to insect bites and eczema, simple measures such as protective clothing, reducing exposure to biting insects and using an appropriate insect repellent according to its label can help reduce the likelihood of bites.

For eczema-prone skin, it's also important to avoid unnecessary irritation and respond early when itching begins. Reducing scratching can help protect the skin barrier and make an uncomfortable bite easier to manage.

With some preparation, children with eczema and sensitive skin can continue enjoying everything the New Zealand outdoors has to offer.

About the contributor

Joern Packross

Managing Director, Balmoral Health

Distributors of Fend Insect Repellent

Originally contributed by Joern Packross, Managing Director of Balmoral Health, distributors of Fend Insect Repellent. Adapted by Eczema Association New Zealand for educational purposes.

Important information

This article provides general information only and is not intended to replace individual medical advice. Always follow insect repellent label directions and speak with your GP, dermatologist or pharmacist if you are unsure whether a product is suitable for your child or their skin.