Skin Prick Test for Baby—MUST Initial Step When Diagnosed with Eczema

If your baby has been diagnosed with eczema or you suspect they may have allergies, a skin prick test can be a vital step in managing their condition. I know this firsthand because my own son started developing eczema when he was just 5 months old. At around 7 months, we did a skin prick test, which revealed his allergies to dairy and eggs. I immediately switched to dairy-free milk and removed eggs from my diet, and I truly believe this was a turning point in managing his eczema.

My son developed a rash that started under his chin and neck, and then quickly spread his stomach...

Here’s everything you need to know about the skin prick test for babies, along with my personal story of how it helped us.

What is a Skin Prick Test?

A skin prick test is a simple and effective way to determine if your baby has allergies to common triggers like food (dairy, eggs, nuts), pollen, or pet dander. It involves placing tiny drops of allergens on the skin and then pricking the skin so the substance can enter just beneath the surface. If your baby is allergic to the substance, a small bump or redness will appear on the skin.

Does a Skin Prick Test Hurt My Baby?

One of the first questions I had before taking my son for the test was, "Does it hurt?" Fortunately, the answer is no. The test is very mild and didn’t cause my son any distress. The needles used for the skin prick are extremely small and only scratch the surface of the skin. My son didn’t even cry or seem bothered by it at all. For babies, the discomfort is minimal—more like a tickle than anything painful.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Skin prick tests are generally very safe, even for young babies. The only side effect your baby may experience is a slight redness or bump where they reacted to an allergen. This goes away within a few hours. In very rare cases, a baby might have a more serious allergic reaction, but because the test is done in a controlled environment with medical supervision, the risks are low.

How Much Does a Skin Prick Test Cost?

The cost of a skin prick test can vary depending on your location and whether you have insurance. On average, the test can cost between $200 and $1,000, depending on how many allergens are tested. Thankfully, most health insurance plans cover allergy testing, especially if it’s recommended by your pediatrician for managing a medical condition like eczema.

How to Make an Appointment for a Skin Prick Test

If you think your baby may need a skin prick test, the first step is to talk to your pediatrician. In my case, my pediatrician referred us to an allergist at UCLA, who performed the test. If your pediatrician doesn't have an in-house allergy specialist, they can refer you to an allergist nearby. It’s important to follow your doctor's advice, as they’ll help you decide if and when the test is necessary.

Can a Pediatrician Perform a Skin Prick Test?

Most pediatricians do not perform skin prick tests themselves but will refer you to a specialist known as an allergist. An allergist is a doctor with special training in diagnosing and treating allergies, and they are best equipped to handle the test and interpret the results.

How Long Does the Test Take?

The actual skin prick test is very quick! The entire process took about 20-30 minutes for my son, from start to finish. You’ll typically wait for about 15 minutes after the allergens are applied to see if there’s a reaction. It’s a simple test, and you’ll know the results almost immediately.

Does Insurance Cover Skin Prick Tests?

Yes, most insurance plans cover skin prick tests if your doctor determines that they are medically necessary. Since eczema and allergies are considered medical conditions, most providers will cover the test, but it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance company beforehand to confirm coverage and ask about any potential out-of-pocket costs.

How Old Does a Baby Have to Be to Get a Skin Prick Test?

Babies can typically be tested for allergies as early as 6 months old. In my case, my son had the test at around 7 months. If your baby is showing signs of allergies, like eczema, hives, or frequent reactions to certain foods, talk to your pediatrician as soon as possible. Early testing can make a big difference in identifying and managing triggers.

Removing Allergens: The Key to Managing Eczema

For my son, removing the allergens that were triggering his eczema—dairy and eggs—was the most effective way to manage his condition. Since switching to dairy-free milk and cutting out eggs, his skin has significantly improved. This is why I always recommend getting a skin prick test to parents whose children are struggling with eczema. Identifying the trigger and eliminating it from their diet or environment can make a huge difference.

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