The most common areas for Atopic Dermatitis to appear on babies is the face and scalp (especially on the cheeks) as well as the body (elbows and knees).
With children that develop the disease after babyhood, the rash often begins on the body - in the creases of the elbows or knees - and it is common to see a young patient with atopic skin on his or her neck, wrists, ankles and/or the creases between the buttocks and legs.
Atopic Dermatitis is made worse by scratching as nails break through the skin barrier and expose bacteria, causing skin to get inflamed. Babies often rub their skin against bedding or carpeting to relieve the itch and in children of all ages, the itch can become so intense that they cannot sleep. As well as being distressing for the child, parents can feel powerless to help which, in turn causes psychological stress. The good news is that effective treatment and good skin care can alleviate much of the discomfort.