Chickenpox is a contagious condition that affects millions of people each year, primarily children. Causing itchy rashes to form all over the body, this viral infection can dramatically impact your child’s comfort and quality of life. After a pediatrician diagnoses your child, there are a few extra steps to help your little one feel better. Here’s what you can safely do to treat chickenpox at home.

How to Help Treat Chickenpox

1. Take Comfortable Baths

Hot water can aggravate already itchy skin, so it’s best for kids to bathe in lukewarm water approximately every four hours. Adding a colloidal oatmeal bath soak to the water may help reduce inflammation, too. These types of oats are naturally anti-inflammatory and can hydrate dry and distressed skin, too. Plus, colloidal oats are rich in soothing starches that further protect the skin. When done bathing, pat your child’s skin dry gently instead of rubbing to prevent irritation.

2. Use Calamine Lotion

Calamine is an over-the-counter lotion formulated to minimize itchiness caused by chickenpox and other conditions. Known for its signature pink color, it contains the primary ingredients zinc oxide and ferric oxide. When applied to affected areas, the lotion produces an instantly relieving cooling sensation. 

Because it minimizes the itch effectively, your child will be less compelled to scratch and potentially cause infection or even greater discomfort. It’s typically safe to apply the lotion multiple times a day, but always check with the pediatrician if you have any concerns about frequency.

3. Practice Hand Care

It’s natural for children to scratch at itchy lesions in an effort to relieve their discomfort, but this can worsen their symptoms and make rashes worse. Help them avoid scratching by putting gloves or mittens on their hands when they’re sleeping or watching television. Make sure their fingernails are clean and trimmed so that there’s less chance of developing painful scratches in addition to their chickenpox rashes.

If you’re concerned that your child has chickenpox, bring them to Walton Family Medicine PC. Proudly serving patients throughout Monroe, GA, and the surrounding community, the pediatricians offer a range of solutions to ensure your little one feels their best year-round. This family medicine practitioner also provides services for adults. Visit the website for more information or call (770) 267-7093 to schedule an appointment.