How to Cure Eczema in Babies

Eczema is a skin condition characterized by dry, flaking and irritated skin. In some cases of infant eczema, the skin may appear raised, blistered and cracked. Secretions of blood and other mucus-like substances can occur; in such severe cases, medical treatment should be sought. Regardless of the severity of the case, all infants should be treated immediately and lifestyle changes subsequently implemented to sustain those treatment efforts.

Things You'll Need

• Creams
• 100 percent cotton bedding and clothing
• Natural Detergents

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Instructions

• 1

  Eliminate exposure to the irritant. Either more frequently launder the infant's bedding and clothing to eliminate bacterial growth and build-up or eliminate all bedding and clothing that is not 100 percent cotton and free of perfumes. Avoid all scented detergents, and favor detergents with natural ingredients.

• 2

  Bathe the baby in warm water (approximately 85 degrees) twice daily. Soak the infant's body in kelp and bentonite clay. According to Dr. R. Lincoln Graham, soap should be avoided: "Soap can contain excessive amounts of alkali. Because alkali removes the delicate fatty substances used to protect the skin, its surface is left dry and harsh. When soap is used, cracks in the skin, from eczema and other other condition, go from bad to worse." Instead of using soap, use natural skin wash or soak the baby in warm salt water. According to Shelley's Wellness Cafe website, warm salt water is an excellent substitute for soap and is just as effective in cleansing the skin.

• 3

  Towel-dry the baby gently patting down affected areas with a softer touch. Follow with an unscented moisturizer such as shea butter; apply the butter to the body in a circular motion. For more advanced eczema, apply the unscented moisturizer to moist skin; skin is softened when not 100 percent dry and more completely absorbs moisture.

• 4

  Use a 100 percent natural (i.e. no steroids or cortisone) eczema treatment cream like Skin-e-Dip. Rated number one by the HowToTreatEczema.com website. According to the website, Skin-e-Dip is highly effective in eliminating the itching, redness and inflammation associated with eczema and as of 2009, is the number-one rated and most recommended eczema cream available.

• 5

  Speak to your doctor about adding flax-seed oil to your baby's diet. Ask if the following oils can be feed to your baby or added to his meals: evening primrose oil, black cumin oil, sesame oil, hemp seed oil, pumpkin seed oil, borage oil, sunflower oil or flaxseed oil. The serving size will depend on the age of the baby, and a doctor should be consulted first.
  According to Dr. Paul Fleiss, author of "Healing Psoriasis: The Natural Alternative," eczema can be the result of a deficiency in essential nutrients (mainly the omega-3 oils). In some cases, adding these oils can cure eczema.

• 6

  Use a soaking wrap. Soak a cotton cloth in warm salt water. Wring to eliminate excess water and place over the affected areas. (Do not cover the baby's face.) Allow each cloth to sit on the skin for 30 minutes before removing. Apply a non-scented moisturizer immediately after.

• 7

  Use a topical anti-inflammatory medication or anti-inflammatory prescription medication. Apply to the affected areas (i.e., flare-ups) or use as directed by a physician.