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Preventing Eczema in Babies

Eczema is a common skin condition that can affect people of all ages including babies. The symptoms of eczema include itching with red or brown scaly patches. These patches commonly appear on the face, behind knees and in the crooks of elbows. While sometimes the cause of the eczema is never known, there is thought to be a genetic link. If you have eczema there is a good chance that your baby could develop it. This being said, there are some things you can do to prevent eczema in your baby.

  1. Foods

    • Some eczema outbreaks are the result of an allergy to a food. Watch your baby carefully as you introduce new foods and introduce those foods one at a time, waiting five days before trying the next one. If your child breaks out with eczema after trying a new food, avoid that food for the time being. If your baby has had continuous eczema from a young age, she might have an allergy to her formula or something that you are eating if you are breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about alternative formulas or a food elimination diet for yourself. Do not introduce new foods if you are trying a different formula or are experimenting with your own diet.

    Avoid Irritants

    • Avoid exposing your baby to harsh chemicals and excessive heat, both of which can lead to eczema. Wash your baby's clothes and bed linens in a hypoallergenic detergent or one that is free of dyes and fragrance. Do not expose him to cigarette smoke, chemical cleaners or perfumes.

    Skin Care

    • Wash your baby with a soap that is designed for babies and bath her in lukewarm water. After the bath, pat her dry and give her an infant massage with a moisturizing lotion, preferably one that is fragrance free. You can add some hydrocortisone cream to the lotion to help clear up and prevent eczema.
      There is a new study that came out in the journal Pediatrics that shows adding half a cup of bleach to a full tub of water and letting the baby soak for ten minutes will help clear up eczema and prevent the symptoms of eczema in babies. This method, along with the use of hydrocortisone cream, should be discussed with your child's pediatrician before you try it.

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