More than half of children in Ireland suffer with a skin condition, according to new research

According to new research by AVEENO ® Baby, it is estimated that more than half (52%) of children in Ireland suffer from a skin condition such as dry or irritated skin. As a result, the survey also found that 51% of parents had said that their child experienced distress or upset because of their skin condition.

The survey, which was conducted with a nationally representative sample of parents in Ireland, revealed how distressing sensitive skin can be for a child and their parents, especially at bedtime. The research found that this was the most prevalent time for skin conditions to flare up (36%), followed by morning (28%), warm weather (26%) and bathtime (10%). Coming into the summer months, this means that skin conditions like this tend to flare up even more.

The results were revealed as part of the official launch of AVEENO® Baby in Ireland, which is AVEENO®‘s range of paediatrician-tested skincare products for babies’ skin. The range uses natural ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal and oat essence to soothe dry and irritated skin conditions. There are eight products in the range, including body and hair washes, wipes and barrier cream, which are a huge help for parents struggling with the issue.

Oatmeal has long been used as a saviour by those who want something natural for their skin. Containing lipids and saponins, oatmeal has been shown to help with locking in moisture and as an anti-inflammatory for dry and sensitive skin. Using it in homemade face masks, scrubs and cleansers is a good way to incorporate it into your skincare routine, but for the little ones around the house, AVEENO® Baby offers something gentler and doctor approved.

Brand ambassador for AVEENO® Baby Lucy Kennedy said of the results: “As a busy mum of three, having a child with a skin condition can cause havoc when there are sleepless nights and upset. Fun times such as bath time and warm sunny days can become a nightmare when skin conditions flare up. My daughter Jess has, at times, had dry skin and I’ve found the AVEENO® Baby range made a huge difference from the very first application.”

Fellow AVEENO® Baby Ambassador Dr Sinead Beirne, GP also added her story: “I have seen children with a huge variety of skin conditions, and it certainly can impact everyday life. Small children and babies can often scratch and this can lead to further irritation. Every baby has different needs for their unique skin”.

For more information on the AVEENO® Baby range, visit https://www.aveeno.ie/products/range/baby