The Aron Regimen for Children
A large proportion of the patients we see at Eczema-doc are children, from young babies to teenagers. Parents often come to us after months or years of creams that have not fully controlled their child's eczema, and with understandable worries about steroids.
Can children use the Aron regimen?
Yes. The regimen is used in children of all ages, including babies. Treatment is always individually prescribed and tailored to the child after a consultation.
How treatment is tailored for children
Age. The strength of the preparation and the amount used are adjusted for the child's age and size.
Body area. Delicate areas such as the face and nappy area usually need a milder preparation than the body.
Severity. Treatment is matched to how active the eczema is, and stepped down as it improves.
Practicalities. We plan applications around the child's routine – before school, after school, and at bedtime.
What parents can expect
The consultation. A video consultation with you and your child. We take a full history, look at the skin on camera and review any photographs you send, and record a symptom score (POEM).
The prescription. A tailored cream mixed by a specialist compounding pharmacy and sent to you, with a clear written plan.
Early weeks. The cream is applied regularly to all affected skin. Many parents report their child scratching less and sleeping better as the eczema settles, though every child responds differently.
Reviews at two and four weeks. We check progress and reduce treatment step by step.
Longer term. Once the eczema is under control, most children need only occasional treatment for early flares, alongside a regular moisturiser.
What about steroid safety in children?
This is the question parents ask most. In the Aron regimen, the steroid is blended into a large volume of moisturiser, the strength is chosen for the child and the body area, and use is reduced as the skin clears. Treatment is supervised throughout. Leaving eczema under-treated also carries risks – poor sleep, infection and distress – so the aim is the right amount of treatment for the right length of time.
Tips for applying treatment to children
Make it part of a routine, at the same times each day.
Apply after a lukewarm bath, when the skin is slightly damp.
Use distraction – songs, a story or a favourite programme.
Let older children apply some themselves, with supervision.
Keep nails short and consider cotton mittens at night.
When to seek urgent care
Contact a doctor urgently if your child develops clusters of painful blisters or sores, a fever, or seems unwell.
Book a video consultation for your child.
This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.