Up to 25 percent of babies develop eczema. It's the most common skin condition in children under the age of 10. Thankfully, most babies with eczema will outgrow it around the age of 4 or 5. There is no cure for eczema, but there are steps you can take to manage your child's eczema and reduce their symptoms.
What Causes Eczema in Babies?
There are several different factors that cause eczema, including:
- Heredity, since eczema often runs in families
- Skin barrier issues that interfere with moisture getting to the inner layers of the skin
- A lack of fatty tissues called ceramides, which help skin keep its moisture balance
- Dry homes, climates, or seasons without enough humidity
Avoid Triggers
One of the most important things you can do to help your baby is identify and avoid anything that triggers their eczema. Triggers are irritants that cause your baby's skin to flare up. It may help to keep track of what your baby was eating, wearing, or doing around the time their eczema got worse. Some common triggers include:
- Heat and sweat
- Saliva
- Scratching
- Smoke
- Dust
- Dry air
- Harsh chemicals
- Pet dander
- Tight-fitting clothes
- Foods
Home Remedies for Eczema
Keeping your baby's skin protected will help control their eczema. Here are some ways you can protect your baby's sensitive skin at home:
Clean and moisturize
Wash your baby in lukewarm water with a mild soap-free cleanser for no more than 15 minutes. After bathing, gently pat your baby dry and apply an ointment such as petroleum jelly to their skin while it's still damp. Moisturize your baby's skin at least twice a day. If your baby's drooling is irritating their skin, apply petroleum jelly to their cheeks frequently.
Use a humidifier
Since a dry environment can cause eczema, using a humidifier can help restore moisture to your baby's skin. This is especially helpful during the winter when many babies' eczema gets worse.
Prevent scratching
Trim your baby's nails so they can't damage their skin when they scratch. It may help to put cotton mittens on your baby as well.
Use eczema-friendly fabrics
Itchy clothes, towels, and bedding can irritate your baby's skin. The detergent you use can also be a trigger. Dress your baby in soft, loose clothing and choose soft fabrics for their bedding, blankets and towels as well. Check your laundry detergent to make sure it doesn't have any irritating ingredients such as fragrances in it.
Prescription Treatments for Eczema
If your baby's eczema isn't controlled with home remedies, discuss it with their pediatrician. Around 30 percent of babies with eczema also have food allergies. Your pediatrician can let you know if your baby needs to be tested for allergies. If your baby's symptoms aren't improving at home, their pediatrician may prescribe a steroid cream.
