His dermatologist tells me to keep him moisturized, but it doesn't seem to help much. He wakes up in the middle of the night screaming because it's so itchy. Eczema is an allergy-related skin condition that is especially common in infants, children, and young adults. As you know, the red, scaly, dry patches that characterize eczema are extremely itchy. Dermatologists usually recommend topical steroids as treatment, but I believe these drugs only suppress the problem and possibly worsen the condition over time.
Steroids can also negatively impact immunity.
Effects probably won't be noticeable for six to eight weeks. For instance, you might suggest he imagine space invaders, or a favorite action figure, vanquishing his skin problems. If you happen to live near a hot spring, you could take your son for a dip and see if he feels better afterwards. And finally, take comfort in knowing that most young children outgrow eczema by the time they enter grade school. Dr. Andrew Weil Talk on the Boards.