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What Does Baby Eczema Look Like?
Baby eczema often appears as raw, red patches of skin. It can occur on any part of the skin. When it appears on the scalp, it is sometimes mistaken for cradle cap. Eczema on the scalp is considerably redder and than cradle cap. Cradle cap is more yellow and flakier. The former can feel painful and itchy. Infants have a hard time communicating pain. So, if your baby starts getting fussy or scratching their face, it may be eczema. Cradle cap typically appears on the scalp, cheeks, and forehead [2].
Baby Acne vs Eczema
There can be some confusion between eczema and acne. However, there are crucial distinctions.
What Is Baby Acne
This skin condition appears on your baby starting from birth until around six months. Typically, red and yellowish pustules will randomly appear on your baby’s face between the 3rd and 6th week. Like teen acne, it is triggered by excessive oil production, hormones, and even bacteria.
What Is Baby Eczema
Baby eczema commonly appears on the face, outside of the elbows, and on the knees. A teething baby may also develop a drool rash around the mouth which can trigger a flare-up of eczema. Parents who have a child that is susceptible to eczema need to be careful with infant formula so that any drips are cleaned promptly. With a toddler, older child or adult, the rash tends to appear on the hands, feet, arms and the back of the knees. However, symptoms vary among individuals.
Eczema is very common. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases estimates at least 10 percent of infants and children have this condition [3]. Doctors diagnose this condition based on the physical appearance and medical history of the baby. Physicians will also ask about family history, a personal history of asthma and allergies, and blood tests.
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What Is Baby Eczema And What Causes Eczema?
Researchers are still trying to determine the actual cause of atopic dermatitis. Parents who experience eczema tend to have babies that develop this condition [4]. However, triggers vary widely and can worsen the condition. Triggers include allergies, environmental stress, pet dander and even sweating. Baby eczema can worsen when the air is dry such as during the winter months when the temperature drops.
Flare-ups can also be triggered by exposure to certain ingredients that are present in shampoos, bubble baths, and even fabric softener. That is why it is important to use organic baby products that do not harm your baby’s skin.
What Are Baby Eczema Remedies
For babies who develop eczema, the goal is to identify the source and reduce flare-ups. Treatment is dependent on the source of the flare-up as well as providing overall comfort.
Baby Eczema Remedies Tip 1: Warm Water Bath
Since dry skin may cause baby eczema, it is important that you bathe your little one with just warm water at times. Avoid hot water as this can further dry out the skin. Some of the water will be absorbed by your baby’s skin. When using baby products, use organic, non-irritating soaps and lotions. MADE OF baby products use only organic natural ingredients.
Baby Eczema Remedies Tip 2: Moisturizing Creams
After the bath, remove excess water by patting (not rubbing) your baby’s skin with a clean towel until the skin is damp. Then, generously apply an organic moisturizing cream that is smooth, not greasy, and does not contain any irritants. It is important to keep dry skin at bay as this can cause eczema.
Baby Eczema Remedies Tip 3: Test Food Allergies
Your physician may recommend checking for food allergies. This way you will know which foods to introduce slowly or avoid completely.
What Is Baby Eczema – Overheating
Remember that your baby’s eczema can worsen when the temperature is too dry or when your little one is exposed to heat. This means that you should dress your baby in light clothing as much as possible especially during the summer [5].
What Is Baby Eczema – Limit Scratching
Scratching can make baby eczema worse. Young children have a hard time holding back the impulse to scratch. Ensure your baby’s nails are cut short or put some gloves on their hands at night. This will keep them from injuring themselves while they sleep.
What Is Baby Eczema – Topical Ointments
Severe eczema can be a problem that requires stronger treatments such as the application of topical ointments and creams that contain steroids. It is important to know how much to apply and the times of application. You should also familiarize yourself with possible side effects.
Medications that do not include steroids are being actively researched. Currently, there is a new type of medication called topical immunomodulators (TIM). This medication is steroid-free and can be used anywhere on the body. It relieves itching, redness, and pain caused by eczema. However, the FDA has not approved it for children under age two [6].
How To Prevent Baby Eczema
While baby eczema is not preventable, researchers are learning how to better manage flare-ups. In addition to the above treatments, parents should try these methods.
What Is Baby Eczema – Humidifier
In an effort to keep your baby’s skin moisturized, it is always a good idea to invest in a cool-mist humidifier. Make sure that the equipment is frequently cleaned so there is no build up of bacteria that can cause health problems in your little one [7].
What Is Baby Eczema – Coconut Oil
You can use natural remedies to prevent baby eczema flare-ups. Coconut oil contains saturated fats, lauric acid, phytonutrients, caprylic acid, polyphenols, vitamin E, and capric acid. These are known for their abilities to soothe and heal damaged skin. Because coconut oil is easily absorbed, your baby’s skin will look healthier and be well-moisturized. [8]
What Is Baby Eczema – Baking Soda
Another remedy for your baby’s eczema is baking soda. Sprinkle a bit of baking soda in your baby’s bath water. This will help soothe your little one’s skin and lock in moisture. You can also use colloidal or uncooked oatmeal in the bath water to help ease flare-ups.
What Is Baby Eczema – Quality Bath Products
It is critical to use healthy bath products on your baby. MADE OF manufacturers have created a perfect blend of natural and organic ingredients in their baby shampoo and body wash. They healthy, safe and soothing for the skin.
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What Is Baby Eczema – Drool Patrol
Drool can irritate your baby’s skin, particularly where it collects around the corners of the mouth. Frequent salivation leads to rashes and eczema flare-ups. Wipe off the drool with a soft, clean towel or napkin whenever you see it.
Proper Dress For Baby Eczema
Overheating can cause rashes. Ensure that your baby is dressed comfortably depending on the weather. Dress your little one in light clothing during the summer. As the weather cools, increase the layers of light fabric so that your baby does not sweat. Also, choose clothing that is made from cotton. Cotton breathes more than synthetic fibers so that your baby will not sweat.
What Is Baby Eczema – Cleaning Products
Look for detergents and softeners that do not use harsh ingredients. When these are transferred to clothes and bedding, they may cause eczema flare-ups.
What Is Baby Eczema – Hypoallergenic Lotions
If your baby is prone to dry skin, it is always a good idea to moisturize as much as possible. Look for a moisturizer that is natural and organic. Apply after bath time and several times during the day to keep your little one’s skin nourished. MADE OF body lotion is “made with nothing to hide.” You know exactly what you are putting on your baby’s skin.
Consult A Doctor About What Is Baby Eczema
Because baby eczema shares some symptoms with other skin conditions, it is important to check with your physician for proper diagnosis. Your doctor will work with you to determine the triggers and help you learn how to prevent flare-ups [8].
Although baby eczema is not considered a serious condition, infections can occur if fissures in the skin develop. This skin condition can make your baby irritable and cranky. Work with your doctor to help ease your baby’s discomfort.
What Causes Baby Eczema And How To Help Your Baby Cope
Best Lotion For Baby Eczema – Eczema Products To Soothe Your Baby
What Is Baby Eczema References:
[1] Eczema in Babies
[2] Shea Mooti, How to tell the difference between cradle cap and eczema, April 9, 2016
[3] The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease.
[4] Children’s National Health System, Pediatric Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis).
[5] Itchy Baby Co., Why Does Heat Make Eczema Worse?, Julia Simmonds, October 13, 2016.
[6] American Academy of Dermatology, Atopic Dermatitis.
[7] What to Expect, Best Humidifiers for Babies, What to Expect Editors, December 19, 2017.
[8] Itchy Baby Co., All You Need to Know About Coconut Oil for Baby Eczema, August 25, 2015.
