Watching their baby endure the discomfort of eczema, whether on their face, scalp, feet, or elsewhere, can be a challenging experience for parents. This chronic skin condition is a reality for many infants, the most common being atopic dermatitis, and can affect up to 25% of children. Baby Eczema manifests as patches of bumpy, dry itchy skin, often most pronounced on the face, known as baby face dermatitis.
Infants have a fragile protective barrier on their skin, leaving them susceptible to baby eczema due to increased water loss and permeation of irritants and allergens. Symptoms, including dry, itchy, and sensitive skin, can last for a couple of weeks, coming and going unexpectedly. This can lead to babies rubbing their skin on surfaces to get rid of the itch, worsening skin breakdown and causing rashes.
Can my Baby’s Eczema be Cured?
Most eczema cases resolve by age 4 or 5, while others may experience milder symptoms closer to adolescence or adulthood. However, studies have shown that it is common for individuals with eczema to experience flare-ups throughout their lives, with an estimated 60% developing eczema in their first year of life. While eczema has no cure, there are ways to manage symptoms to enhance comfort.
What Causes this Eczema?
Baby eczema primarily stems from environmental irritants and allergens, with genetics also playing a significant role; if you have a family history of eczema, your little one is more likely to develop it. Eczema genes contribute to a weakened skin barrier, which leads to the indicators associated with the condition. Immune system reactions could also lead to eczema if it mistakes healthy skin cells with small irritants with foreign invaders.
Certain triggers that cause flare-ups include clothing materials, temperature changes, dry air, sweating, soaps or foods. While winter conditions may intensify symptoms, air conditioning in the summer can dry out the skin, leading to heightened susceptibility to eczema. Sweat and chlorine are also known triggers for flare-ups.
What are Natural Remedies for this Eczema?
The best way to reduce flare-ups for your child is to identify and avoid potential triggers. Opt for cotton clothes free of itchy adornments like lace or fringe. Wash their clothes with detergents free from perfumes and harsh chemicals, and avoid dryer sheets. While scratching is a normal response to itchiness, it can become a habit and lead to rashes. Keep your baby’s nails short, and consider sleep suits with built-in mittens for sleeping.
Bathe your baby daily for 5 to 10 minutes in lukewarm water. Afterward, pat dry immediately and apply a thick moisturizing cream twice daily to maintain a better skin barrier, decreasing itchiness and skin breakdown. Choose a product with natural oils and fewer chemicals, such as LEMYKA's Hydrating Cream, an all-natural product that is steroid free, no having any form of fragrances, parabens, or petrochemicals. This cream provides soothing relief, holds moisture in the skin for up to 48 hours, and works as a natural barrier cream to restore and protect the skin barrier. Test on a small area for 1 to 2 days for allergies. Explore LEMYKA’s Calming Cream on our website, and learn more about managing eczema with our products through our post, LEMYKA's Approach on Managing Baby Eczema.
Breastfeeding moms should monitor to see if certain foods trigger more frequent outbreaks in your child. Before making any changes in your diet, contact your physician, as an unrestricted diet is generally best for the healthiest breastmilk. If you are formula feeding, create a structured plan with your physician rather than switch formulas abruptly.
If your child’s eczema is severe and difficult to control, consult a dermatologist regarding bleach bath therapy. Dilute bleach baths can help reduce bacteria and inflammation. Follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully to ensure safety and prevent further irritation. If you notice an infection on your baby’s skin, such as blisters, sores, or yellowish-orange crusts, or other concerns, don’t hesitate to seek advice from your dermatologist.
