Fragrances and preservatives commonly found in baby wipes, cosmetics, skincare products and toy "slime" are among the most common causes of eczema in Australian children.

Authors of a new study, published in the Australasian Journal of Dermatology on Monday, said children suffering from suspected skin allergies should be patch-tested for 30 of the most common allergens and potential allergens identified in their research.

Fragrances and preservatives commonly found in baby wipes are among the most common causes of skin allergies for Australian children. Credit:iStock

Allergic contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash that develops as an immune response in the days after exposure to an allergen. The condition is diagnosed by patch-testing the skin on the back.

Historically it was thought it rarely affected children due to their immature immune systems and limited exposure. In fact, the researchers, from the Occupational Dermatology Research and Education Centre at Melbourne's Skin Health Institute, found it was not uncommon for children to suffer from allergic contact dermatitis – and rates appeared to be increasing.