Understanding Eczema -- Prevention

How Can I Prevent Eczema?

Since eczema often runs in families, parents may have a good idea whether their own children may be at risk. But even if your baby inherits the predisposition, you may be able to lower his or her chances of being a chronic sufferer. One study suggests that children with a family history of allergy-related problems (like atopic dermatitis) who were weaned from breast milk before the age of 4 months were more likely to develop recurrent eczema than children who were weaned later. If possible, babies should live on their mother's milk exclusively for the first three months, and doctors advise continuing breast milk for at least up to six months (preferably one year) as you introduce your baby to solid food. However, dietary factors in eczema prevention are still not clear.  

Babies should also be protected from such potential allergens as pet hair and airborne irritants such as mites and molds.