Eczema, often referred to as atopic dermatitis, is a common condition in people of all ages. Even though it is more common in babies, toddlers, and children, this condition can impact just about anyone. Furthermore, eczema is more common in individuals who have a family history of this condition.
Eczema commonly presents with a rash that usually shows up in the skin flexures. This means that eczema is more commonly found in areas where the skin tends to rub together. In babies and toddlers, eczema usually shows up in the skin folds around the neck, the creases in the elbows and armpits, and creases in the hips and around the knees. Also, eczema can be found on the hands, feet, or cheeks.
Similar to other medical conditions, eczema can range in severity. Some toddlers might develop eczema that is barely noticeable, while others might have eczema that is so bad it leads to weeping wounds, bloody scratches, and constant irritation.
The good news is that there are a handful of ways to treat eczema in babies. What are a few of the tips to keep in mind?
How Often Should Parents Bathe a Baby with Eczema?
Children, teenagers, and adults are used to showering about once per day. Therefore, many parents think that they should be bathing their babies once per day as well. This is not the case.
As long as parents are applying moisturizers to their babies and changing their diapers on a regular basis, there is no need to bathe the baby any more than three times per week.
On the other hand, for babies that have developed eczema, it is better to try to bathe this baby at least once per day. Water is helpful because it will moisten the skin and hydrated, reducing the chances of the skin cracking, leading to the zoo reciprocal rash and wounds that accompany eczema.
Try to keep baths to around three minutes. Then, pat the baby dry, and quickly apply moisturizer to lock in the hydration. If moisturizer is not applied, then the skin will start to dry out.
What Causes Eczema in Babies that are Breastfed?
Some studies have suggested that babies that are breastfed may be at a higher risk of developing eczema. While it is possible that this is one contributing factor, the reality is that there are a number of factors that contribute to children developing eczema.
There are a few common food groups for babies who are breastfed that could lead to eczema development. These are the same food groups that commonly cause allergic reactions in children and adults susceptible to them.
Common food groups that might lead to the development of eczema in babies who are breastfed include soy, wheat, eggs, shellfish, tree nuts, and peanuts.
Obviously, this is a very large swathe of food. Therefore, parents simply need to remain cognizant of what they are eating and how their child’s skin is reacting.
Parents with questions or concerns should raise them at their next pediatrician’s visit. If your baby is breastfed and not drinking as much as usual, we have another post on that topic.
What Are the Top Lotions for Baby Eczema?
Most parents understand that the top treatment for baby eczema and balls moisturizing lotion that can create.
There are a number of eczema creams that are exceptional at treating baby eczema. These include:
- CeraVe Baby Moisturizing Cream is a great overall lotion for eczema on all parts of the body.
- Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream is an exceptional cream that does a great job of reducing itching and scratching in babies. This could help to keep those wounds from opening up.
- Eucerun Baby Eczema Relief Body Cream is great for babies that have widespread eczema on multiple parts of the body. This cream will do a great job of common irritation and relaxing the skin overall.
- Weleda Sensitive Care Face Cream is commonly recommended for eczema that shows up on the face of babies. Because facial skin is more sensitive, these areas sometimes require a more specialized cream.
With these products in mind, it’s important to know that these are all sold over the counter. Any parent who finds they are applying these creams multiple times a day without making a dent in eczema needs to visit their pediatrician for help.
In some cases, baby eczema could require a steroid cream. It is important to follow your pediatrician’s instructions when using steroid creams because these creams can lead to side effects.
On the other hand, if the eczema is so bad that babies are bleeding regularly and having trouble sleeping, then this cream might be warranted.
A Comprehensive Approach to the Treatment of Baby Eczema
These are a few of the key points to keep in mind when treating baby eczema. Although some foods can cause eczema in breastfed babies, the benefits of breastfeeding a baby far outweigh the risks.
It’s simply important for parents to be cognizant of what they eat while their baby is breastfed.
Babies that do develop eczema should continue to bathe regularly. It is important to keep these baths short and lock in the moisture with a moisturizing lotion as soon as the bath is finished.
Also, eczema that continues to spread can be treated with certain over-the-counter creams. If this is not enough to keep eczema in check, then it is a good idea to visit the pediatrician. There could be situations where a steroid cream is warranted.
