English

Colorado’s climate triggers eczema in babies

(Photo/EFE)

DOCTOR PAOLA ALDANA, OF EPIPHANY DERMATOLOGY, EXPLAINS HOW TO PROTECT YOUR BABY’S SKIN

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

Haga click aquí para leer la versión en español

Mateo’s first winter in Denver did not bring the joy of snow, but rather the persistent crying caused by itching. His parents, Elena and Luis—first-time parents filled with anxiety—watched helplessly as their six-month-old son’s cheeks went from a soft pink to an intense red, cracked and rough to the touch. Elena recalls, her voice breaking, that at first they thought it was simply the extreme mountain cold, but the baby could not sleep and scratched himself until he caused small wounds.

What Mateo was facing was the number one challenge in pediatric dermatology in the Rocky Mountain region: severe atopic dermatitis, a condition worsened by the lack of humidity in the state. A young child’s skin is about 20 percent thinner than an adult’s, making it extremely vulnerable to Colorado’s semi-arid environment. Here, low ambient humidity and intense ultraviolet radiation act like a relentless extractor of the skin’s natural moisture.

An expert from Epiphany Dermatology speaks

Dr. Paola Aldana, MD, FAAD, of Epiphany Dermatology, explains that this is not just temporary dryness. Eczema represents a true breakdown of the skin barrier, leaving the body exposed to aggressive external elements. According to the specialist, in high-altitude states, the skin’s protective barrier literally evaporates due to climatic conditions. “When this natural defense breaks down, a vicious cycle begins. Environmental allergens and exposures penetrate easily while internal moisture escapes uncontrollably,” she said.

The result is deep inflammation, which, if not treated promptly, can lead to serious complications such as bacterial infections—especially when constant scratching allows pathogens to enter the microscopic fissures in the skin. The biological process behind this condition is complex, but its effects are evident and painful for the entire family. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition in which the immune system overreacts to everyday stimuli.

Clima de Colorado dispara el eccema en bebés

The three-minute rule

In infants and young children, the lack of natural lipids or fats creates microscopic cracks where Colorado dust, detergent residues, or even friction from clothing fibers can trigger an inflammatory response. This discomfort pushes the child to seek relief through scratching, which, unfortunately, worsens the inflammation and can allow bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus to enter. Dr. Aldana recommends a fundamental strategy that must be applied with military-like discipline in Colorado households.

The technique involves a “soak and seal” process to artificially restore what the climate strips away. Bath time should be shortened, with lukewarm—never hot—water, to avoid removing the few natural oils the body produces. Immersion time should be limited to prevent the reverse dehydration effect caused by prolonged water exposure.

Upon leaving the tub, parents should gently pat the baby’s skin dry—never rub—and immediately apply a generous layer of ointment or thick moisturizer. Dr. Aldana stresses that the goal is to trap the residual moisture from the bath inside the skin before the dry indoor air pulls it away. It is also recommended that all products used, from soap to laundry detergent, be strictly free of fragrances and dyes, as fragrances can be one of the main chemical irritants for skin with a compromised barrier.

Use of medicated creams with expert guidance

Dr. Aldana and other pediatric health experts suggest that using cool-mist humidifiers may be an investment in children’s bedrooms to keep ambient humidity above critical levels. Clothing choices are equally important. Natural cotton is a reliable ally for a child with eczema, while synthetic materials or wool should be avoided, as they may act like constant abrasives on already sensitive skin.

Intervention by specialists like Dr. Aldana is often the turning point for families who, like Mateo’s, live in a constant state of alert. Modern medicine offers everything from low-potency corticosteroids to innovative biologic therapies for the most persistent cases, restoring peace of mind at home. It is crucial to recognize warning signs such as yellowish crusts or oozing, which indicate that eczema has progressed from irritation to an active infection requiring immediate medical attention.

Living at Colorado’s high altitude is a privilege because of its natural beauty, but the geography imposes a dermatological care toll that cannot be ignored. Children’s skin health is not merely an aesthetic or superficial issue. “Skin care is the first line of defense for overall well-being. With proper medical guidance and a non-negotiable moisturizing routine, it is possible for children like Mateo to enjoy their childhood without the mountain climate becoming their worst enemy,” Dr. Aldana concludes.