Eczema is a complaint that is more common in infants and babies than adults. The most common form in babies and young infants is called Atopic Eczema, which often appears between the ages of 2 months and 18 months. It normally starts with an intensely itchy rash usually on the face, inner creases of the elbows and behind the knees. The skin often starts to scale in these areas and small red pimples begin to appear. When the baby starts to scratch, the pimples begin to ooze and join to form large weeping areas. Infections can occur, particularly in the nappy area due to the high level of dampness.
Ways to help treat baby eczema
Eczema in babies can sometimes be caused by environmental factors like low humidity.
Clothing made from uncomfortable materials like scratchy wool will also irritate your baby. Be aware of allergic reactions from soaps and hygiene products, which contain perfume, and even some foods may cause this skin condition.
So, how do you help your baby avoid getting eczema?
Below are some of the more effective ways:
1. Ensure that your baby’s skin is properly moisturized.
Use lukewarm water when washing your baby, because it is the ideal temperature for avoiding skin dryness. Always apply a mild and fragrance-free moisturizer to help keep your baby’s skin soft and supple.
2. Never “over clean” your baby.
Excessive bathing or cleaning can have damaging effects. Always wash your baby’s hands, feet, genitals with water, then rinse the rest of the body.
3. It is important to make sure that your baby wears cotton clothing.
Cotton is considered one of the most comfortable kinds of clothing. Ensure that you choose loose clothes made of cotton for your baby and keep away from any tight, itchy and uncomfortable materials that could aggravate the condition further.
4. It is important that you pay attention to your baby’s diet and provide them with fresh and nutritious foods. One of the biggest factors of eczema is malnutrition. If your baby is unhealthy, the immune system will be unable to fight the eczema bacteria. Stay away from giving your baby processed and junk food.
5. Easier said than done but always try to keep your little one stress-free.
Babies can get very stressed if they are in uncomfortable situations, or feel anxious and irritated.
6. Never apply any creams, ointments, or solutions to your baby’s eczema, unless it has been prescribed by a medical practitioner first.
In many cases this condition often clears up itself as the child grows older, although it could come and go for several years. Most children normally outgrow atopic ezema by the time they reach puberty.