In this special episode, we're tackling a skin condition that affects 1 in 5 Canadian children: eczema. From the very first patch to long-term management, we’re breaking it all down with one of Canada’s leading pediatric dermatologists.

We explore why eczema happens, what flare-ups really mean, what role genetics and the environment play, and whether kids can grow out of it. Plus, we answer the questions you’ve been sending us:

What helps before prescriptions? What about food triggers? And when should you worry?

Whether you're a worried parent, a clinician, or someone who grew up with eczema yourself — this episode brings clarity, compassion, and practical steps you can use today.

Our Guest Expert

Dr. Marissa Joseph is an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto and Medical Director of the Ricky Kanee Schachter Dermatology Centre at Women’s College Hospital. She also practices at SickKids, where she cares for children with complex skin disease and leads a pediatric laser program. She is internationally recognized for her work in pediatric dermatology, inflammatory skin disorders, and equity in dermatologic care.

In This Episode

• What exactly is eczema (and is it the same as atopic dermatitis?)
• Why eczema happens — what’s going on under the skin
• Genetics vs. triggers: who’s most likely to develop it?
• What eczema looks like across different skin tones
• Can food allergies cause flare-ups?
• Can eczema start later in life?
• Moisturizers, bath routines, and other non-medication strategies
• When steroid creams and other prescriptions are necessary

Thank You to Our Sponsors

We also want to thank FIGS as our season sponsor, the scrubs we wear, love, and trust in clinic, on set, and on call. FIGS designs with comfort, function, and style in mind — helping healthcare providers feel their best while they care for others. If you work in healthcare or know someone who does, FIGS is it. And right now, if you go to wearfigs dot com and use code FIGSCA, you can get 20% off your first order. That’s wearfigs dot com, code FIGSCA.

Aveeno® Baby understands that every parent wants the best for their children and is committed to helping every baby feel comfortable in their skin by offering nourishing solutions. It can be challenging to properly care for your baby or toddler who is uncomfortable due to eczema, so following a daily skincare routine of bathing and moisturizing can help keep your baby’s skin under control.

The Aveeno® Baby Eczema Care line is hypoallergenic and free of steroids, fragrance, parabens, and phthalates. The Eczema Care range is clinically shown to help temporarily relieve the symptoms of eczema like itch, dryness, redness, and irritation. You can find Aveeno® Baby at your local drugstore.

A Quick Reminder

The Doc Talk is for general information only. It’s not medical advice — even though we are doctors, we’re not your doctor. Always speak to your own healthcare provider for personal care.

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Send us your questions — we may feature them in an upcoming episode!