How to Heal Your Child’s Skin from the Inside Out
To get after the root cause of eczema, you have to employ a holistic strategy. That is because eczema is more than just a skin condition—it’s a reflection of what’s happening inside the body. To truly heal eczema, we need to go beyond managing symptoms and address the root cause. This means reducing inflammation, supporting digestion, eliminating environmental triggers, and ensuring emotional well-being.
Healing eczema holistically requires three key pillars:
- Addressing the Root Causes of Eczema
- Managing Emotions
- Building Daily Habits That Stick
Each of these plays a critical role in reversing eczema for good. Let’s dive into how you can implement these pillars in your child’s healing journey.
Listen Below For The Entire Episode on The Eczema Kids Podcast
Tackling the Root Causes of Eczema
Eczema isn’t just a skin issue. It stems from:
- Chronic inflammation
- Gut dysbiosis (an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the gut)
- A weakened immune system
- Nutrient absorption issues that affect detoxification and skin barrier function
So, how do we fix this? By focusing on food, digestion, and reducing environmental toxins.
Nourish with Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Your child’s diet is the foundation of healing. We need to incorporate:
- Fresh, whole, seasonal foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals
- Colorful fruits and vegetables that provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties
- Diverse foods that support digestion and gut health
By feeding your child nutrient-dense foods, you’re giving their body the tools it needs to repair and thrive.
Support the Microbiome with Prebiotics and Probiotics
A strong gut microbiome is crucial for eczema recovery. This means:
- Drinking prebiotic teas (like the ones in the Eczema Kids Shop)
- Eating a fiber-rich, seasonal diet
- Taking a high-quality probiotic supplement
However, avoid fermented foods while actively healing from eczema, as they introduce yeast into the body. Once eczema is under control, they can be reintroduced.
Practice Proper Food Combining
Did you know certain food combinations make digestion harder?
- Avoid mixing animal proteins with grains or beans in the same meal.
- Fruits digest quickly, while meats take longer—eating them together can lead to fermentation and inflammationin the gut.
Some children, like my husband, can handle poor food combinations due to a strong digestive system. But kids with eczema have limited digestive capacity, and their systems need extra care to heal.
Healing eczema can feel like climbing a mountain. But you don’t have to do it all at once. Every step you take brings your child closer to healing. -Andra McHugh
Eliminating Environmental Triggers
Toxins from synthetic cleaners, artificial fragrances, and other environmental factors can make eczema ten times worse. The good news? We can control many of these factors in our homes.
Simple Swaps for a Toxin-Free Home
- Replace all cleaners with natural alternatives (e.g., Castile soap)
- Use unscented laundry detergent—this is a must!
- Open windows daily for fresh air
- Add indoor plants to improve air quality
- Take shoes off indoors to prevent tracking in chemicals like pesticides
These are free, easy changes you can make today that will significantly impact your child’s healing.
Managing Emotions: The Overlooked Key to Healing
Stress plays a huge role in eczema flares. And as parents, our emotional state directly impacts our kids.
Think about it: Have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt someone’s negative energy? Your child is even more sensitive to this. When we’re stressed, we release cortisol (the stress hormone), which increases inflammation in the body.
How to Reduce Stress for You and Your Child
- Choose a high-energy, loving response: Smile, hug, and be present.
- Take breaks from your phone: Give your child your full attention.
- Prioritize mindfulness: Take deep breaths, listen to calming music, or journal your thoughts.
This is free, powerful, and the most effective thing you can do for your child’s healing.
Building Daily Habits That Stick
Consistency is key when healing eczema. But instead of aiming for perfection, focus on small, sustainable changes.
Make Nutrition Routine Simple
- Plan meals in advance to ensure whole, anti-inflammatory foods
- Use natural skin moisturizers like the Skin Comfort Trio
- Remove synthetic toxins from your home
Prioritize Good Sleep Hygiene
- Use less artificial light at night
- Keep your child’s room decluttered and free from synthetic materials
- Stick to a consistent bedtime routine
By making these steps part of your daily life, you’ll see lasting improvements in your child’s eczema and overall health.
Healing Eczema is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Some cases of eczema disappear when a single food (like eggs) is removed. Others, like those in the Eczema Elimination Method, require a more holistic approach.
By following these steps, you’re bypassing doctor’s offices, steroids, and unnecessary medications. Instead, you’re giving your child the tools to heal from the inside out—saving money, time, and stress in the long run.
You’re Not Alone—Take the Next Step
Healing eczema can feel like climbing a mountain. But remember: You don’t have to do it all at once.
- Swap out one product. I highly recommend swapping out skincare with the skin comfort trio.
- Try one new recipe. Check out the Facebook group for lots of eczema-friendly options!
- Take a deep breath and reset your mindset. Mind Up is a great online curriculum for our kiddos to develop good mental hygiene too!
Every step you take brings your child closer to healing.
If you’re ready for step-by-step guidance, check out the Eczema Elimination Method—a complete roadmap to reversing eczema naturally.
Let’s do this together. One step at a time, until you look up and realize your child’s skin is clear, their sleep is better, and their health has transformed.
Start today. Because healing is possible, and your child deserves it.
Looking for More Eczema Relief?
Can we ever get enough? For more eczema treatment options, check out How to Help Your Child Heal Naturally, Why Your Child’s Eczema Isn’t Getting Better and 5 Simple Habits To Improve Your Child’s Health.
FAQ
What is the root cause of eczema?
Eczema is not just a skin issue—it’s a sign of internal imbalances, including chronic inflammation, gut dysbiosis, a weakened immune system, and nutrient absorption issues. Addressing these root causes is key to long-term healing. A holistic strategy is required to turn your child’s eczema around!
Can diet really impact eczema?
Yes! Food plays a crucial role in eczema healing. An anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense diet filled with whole, seasonal foods supports gut health, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier.
