How to treat and prevent eczema in your newborn

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that affects about 25% of babies.

Majority of people who develop the condition experience it during their first year of life. So the chances are high that it will appear in your newborn’s skin.

Eczema isn’t deadly or very severe. However, it can open up a baby’s skin to infections like bacteria and other microorganisms lodge within the inflamed area. So there’s every reason to treat eczema as soon as you notice it on your baby’s skin before it can flare up.

Although there’s no known cure, you can do the following to prevent or manage atopic dermatitis to avoid flare-ups.

1. Bathe your baby with their condition in mind

Knowing your baby is prone to eczema, it’s best to take your time and bathe them with that in mind. Use lukewarm water to bathe your baby, and avoid scrubbing their skin as you’d do yours.

Focus more on the dirty or smelly parts and wash with a mild cleanser. 5-10 minutes is recommended for your baby’s bath.

2. Don’t forget baby skincare

There are skin care products designed for your newborn’s delicate skin. To treat eczema in babies, avoid products for adults and go for a fragrance-free, non-toxic one like the Baby Eczema Lotion. These products are designed with natural ingredients to prevent adverse reactions no matter how sensitive your baby’s skin is.

Such lotions or creams can help calm and relieve the itching and prevent eczema outbreaks.

You should apply the lotion topically immediately after the baby’s bath and before rubbing a moisturizer. Remember, it must be fragrance-free.

Also, keep in mind that thick creams are more effective moisturizers than oils. Moisturize at least twice daily.

3. Avoid exposing your baby to triggers

Eczema is more or less a reaction to triggers. Some of these triggers are:

• Sweat
• Uncomfortable Fabric
• Clothing washed with harsh detergent
• Products containing fragrance
• Smoke
• Dry air
• Saliva
• Scratching
• Pollen grains
• Pet dander
• Certain Baby wipes and powders

It’s worth investing time in identifying these triggers and keeping your newborn away from them. For instance, you might discover that your baby develops eczema whenever you use a particular product or wear a particular piece of clothing. If your baby’s saliva is causing the condition on their face, apply petroleum jelly around your baby’s mouth before they feed or sleep.

Staying cautious of these things can help prevent an eczema outbreak on your baby’s skin.

4. See a doctor when the condition gets out of control

If you discover that your baby’s eczema is challenging to control, no matter what products you use, it’s best to see a dermatologist ASAP. Your dermatologist may recommend carrying out a bleach bath therapy, which helps to reduce bacteria and inflammation on the skin.

Since untreated eczema can put your baby at risk of bacterial and viral infections, bleach bath therapy can significantly reduce such risks. Ensure you follow the dermatologist’s guidelines for bleach bath therapy.

Wrapping up

Baby care can get any mom anxious, whether it’s her first or fifth child. If you’re worried about your baby’s skin condition, you’re not alone.

Follow the tips discussed above or see a dermatologist if things seem beyond your control.