Baby Eczema – Prevention and Treatment
Babies have natural smooth and soft skin. However, often they might suffer from rashes. Nearly 25 percent of these rashes are eczema. The signs of baby eczema might develop in infants between 2 and 6 months of age. Parents should take immediate steps to treat baby eczema. Untreated eczema could increase the risk of asthma. Causes of baby eczema
Eczema usually develops in babies with a family history of eczema, allergy and asthma. The child might inherit genes from either of his parents that make him vulnerable to this skin disorder. Often eczema could be the symptom of allergy. Certain allergens such as dust, pollen, animal dander, molds or certain foods can trigger eczema. If your baby is allergic to cow’s milk, orange, wheat or egg, he might develop eczema.
Symptoms of baby eczema
The eczema flare-up looks like dry, itchy and red rash that appears in the face or scalp. It might appear around the mouth and on the checks. Sometimes the eczema rash might develop on the chest, back and feet.
Baby eczema prevention
If eczema develops as an allergic reaction to certain foods, avoid giving these foods to your child. Cow’s milk, dairy products and acidic fruits and vegetables such as oranges and tomatoes are commonly associated with this skin problem in babies. Keep your child away from environmental allergens such as pollens, mold, dust and animal dander.
Excessive heating and excess perspiration might irritate the skin, leading to eczema. If your child’s skin is sensitive to certain types of fabrics, you should not use that fabric for making your child’s clothing and bedding. Wool and course fabrics are known to trigger skin problems in babies. Do not use any harsh detergent and fabric softeners for cleaning your child’s clothes.
Baby eczema treatment
To reduce irritation, bathe your baby in warm water for about 5 to 10 minutes. Use only mild soaps or specially formulated baby soaps. Gently dry the skin with a soft towel. Do not rub the areas of the skin affected by eczema. Apply baby oil to reduce dryness. To reduce the itchiness, you can apply a cool compress on the affected areas.
