Treating Your Baby's Eczema Problem

Atopic dermatitis and infantile eczema are very common skin disorders in the western world. Infants suffering from eczema have dry and rough skin, and they are quite sensitive to itching. Having atopic dermatitis also increases the chances of infants developing other atopic conditions such as allergy, hay fever and asthma. Most children, however, outgrow eczema as they age, while many continue to suffer for rest of their lives. The cause of eczema is not really known, but family history is known to be a factor.

Eczema can be very frustrating for a baby, as well as for the parents. There are many things that can trigger it, including overheating, rubbing the skin, moisture, cat or dog dander, body soap, water, cigarette smoke and detergent.

The first step towards baby eczema treatment is to identify the trigger or precipitating event so that they can be avoided whenever possible. There may not be immediate improvements, but breaking the cycle is important to successfully treat the condition in the long run. Successful baby eczema treatment includes avoiding the situations that make baby sweat, such as not piling on the blankets or putting your baby in a blanket sleeper. It is advisable to exclude eggs, cow’s milk, peanut products and citrus fruits from your baby’s diet. You’re your infant’s clothes in a detergent that is suitable for sensitive skin, and avoid dressing the child in harsh fabrics or woolens. Cotton is the best choice.

Another effective baby eczema treatment is to avoid long hot baths, because when skin prunes, the moisture-retaining layer of the skin gets disrupted. It is best to give the baby short and frequent baths using lukewarm water and mild cleanser. If the baby is not dirty, don’t use any soap.

For baby eczema treatment, apply moisturizer to the affected area twice a day immediately after the bath while the baby's skin is still damp. Alpha Keri, Moisturel, Curel, Aquaphor, Eucerin and Vaseline are good products to choose. The use of a humidifier in the room also helps prevent skin dryness.

Many parents opt for natural eczema treatments for their children. Making a smooth paste of nutmeg and applying it on the affected area may provide relief. Another homemade baby eczema treatment includes adding one tablespoon of turmeric powder to a few bitter neem leaves and grinding it into a paste. Applying this paste to the affected area can also relieve the symptoms of eczema.