Twenty percent of children at one point or another will have eczema by the time they reach two years old.
What we do know is that eczema is triggered by internal stimuli, external stimuli, and an overactive immune system that is probably genetic.
If someone in your family has eczema, then your baby is more likely to have it.
What Exactly Is Baby Eczema?
Eczema is the general term for several skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, contact dermatitis, and cradle cap which is also called seborrheic dermatitis [1]. When we say eczema, we mostly refer to atopic dermatitis.
The body’s immune system triggers a skin inflammation that causes patches of skin to become dry, red and itchy. It may also be painful and tender to the touch [2].
Baby Eczema is not an allergy
Eczema is not an allergic reaction, though it can be triggered by allergens such as smoke or pollen.
Allergens in food consumed by the child or the breastfeeding mother can also provoke eczema. It can also be triggered by extreme changes in temperature and irritants from soap, detergent, lotions, etc.
Dry skin and stress can also lead to an eczema flare-up.
Eczema in Infants (newborn to six months)
Eczema will usually appear on the face and scalp.
It is typically reddish and wet-looking. It rarely appears in areas where moisture gathers.
Baby Eczema (6 – 12 months)
Eczema can appear on the elbows and knees especially if the baby has started to crawl.
Infected eczema will form a crusty, yellowish skin, and pus-forming bumps.
Eczema In Toddlers
By toddler age, eczema appears most often on the hands, wrists, ankles, and in elbow and knee creases.
The skin may look dry, scaly and thick.
How To Help Your Baby Cope With Eczema
Baby eczema will eventually go away in most cases.
However, it is uncomfortable. Eczema can cause severe irritation, itchiness, and pain at to the touch.
The best way to help your baby cope with eczema is to manage flare-ups.
#5 – Know the Triggers of baby eczema
Observe and note what triggers your baby’s eczema.
Is it a sudden change in temperature moving indoors to outdoors or vice versa?
Does eczema settle when you switch laundry detergents?
Keep track of anything noticeable so you can avoid what may be causing eczema.
#4 – Create a Bathing Routine while your baby has eczema
Moisturizing eases afflicted area and the discomfort that comes with it.
How to wash your baby with eczema;
- Use lukewarm water and mild organic baby soap or non-soap cleanser
- Leave the shampoo for last, so there is no time spent soaking in soapy water
- Lightly pat dry
- While the skin is still damp, apply oil, ointment or organic sensitive baby lotion to seal in the moisture
#3 – Breath and Air Dry
Let the skin breathe. Choose natural fibers for your baby’s clothing.
If you can, expose the affected area. This will relieve the skin of some irritation.
#2 – Manage the Scratching of baby eczema
Eczema is itchy; it can make even adults cry with discomfort.
Trim your baby’s nails, and place cotton mittens on the child’s hands to lessen the effects of scratching.
Use natural fibers in all of the bedding linens. Using the softest and smoothest materials available will help ease the discomfort.
You will have to live with an irritable baby, so be prepared for some fussing and crying.
#1 – Mind the Medicine
Never use medication, even over-the-counter drugs, without first consulting your doctor, especially if your baby is less than four months old.
Mild, topical steroids are usually used to manage eczema flare-ups that do not clear within a week or two.
A doctor will usually prescribe stronger steroids if the over-the-counter variety does not control the symptoms.
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Baby Eczema Reference:
[1] National Eczema Association; Understanding Your Child’s Eczema.[2] National Eczema Association; Eczema Causes and Triggers.
