Food allergies are usually considered in children below 12 months of age who have extensive and difficult-to-manage eczema. If eczema is not responding well to other things such as soap-free products and moisturising, you may need to look at food allergies as a possible trigger and discuss with your paediatrician about allergy testing However, the underlying genetic defect of the skin remains and,while underlying food allergies may contribute to eczema flare-ups and may require avoidance, good skin care still remains the core of eczema management.