Eczema is characterized by itchy and inflamed patches on the skin that may blister and ooze. For adults, this skin condition can cause great discomfort. Imagine how bad it is for your baby with very sensitive skin.
If your infant exhibits signs of eczema, seeing a pediatric dermatologist as early as possible can help prevent complications and protect your baby’s delicate skin. Infant eczema needs specialized care.
Here is a skin care guide specifically designed for infants with eczema, offering practical tips and strategies to promote greater comfort and symptom relief.
Understanding Infant Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, often manifests in infancy, with symptoms typically appearing between two and six months of age. It can affect any body part, from the face down to the legs. Up to 25 percent of children have eczema, and it is often inherited or genetic.
One thing to know is that eczema has triggers, which are environmental factors. Examples of these are fragrances and fabrics. Your baby’s skin could have trouble maintaining its protective barrier, causing the reaction.
Eczema comes and goes, and prevention is part of comprehensive treatment. Your pediatric dermatologist can develop an individualized treatment plan for you..
Skin Care Tips for Managing Infant Eczema
When it comes to managing eczema in infants, be patient and prepared for some trial and error in finding the right therapies for your baby’s unique needs.
Below are some skin care tips for pediatric eczema:
- Choose products formulated for eczema-prone skin – Many products are formulated especially for the eczema-prone. These are usually made with hypoallergenic ingredients and help your baby’s skin retain moisture.
- Avoid fragrances – Perfumes and scents can trigger eczema; therefore, it is best to avoid them when choosing bath products and detergents. Therefore, choose fragrance-free products.
- Avoid hot baths – Lukewarm water and short baths are recommended to prevent skin over-drying. In addition, keep bath time short to prevent drying out the skin.
- Keep skin moisturized – Moisturizing is key to managing infant eczema. Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer immediately after bathing – while the skin is still damp – to lock in moisture and hydrate the skin. Choose emollients such as ointments or creams with ingredients like ceramides or petroleum, which help repair the skin barrier and soothe irritation.
- Choose soft, breathable fabrics – Dress your infant in soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to minimize skin irritation and promote airflow. Avoid rough, scratchy materials such as wool or synthetic fibers, which can aggravate eczema and cause discomfort.
- Keep nails short – Trim your infant’s nails regularly to prevent scratching and minimize the risk of skin damage and infection. Consider using cotton mittens or socks on your baby’s hands at night to prevent inadvertent scratching during sleep.
- Use a humidifier – In dry climates or during the winter months when indoor heating can lead to dry air, use a humidifier to add moisture to your baby’s room. Choose cool-mist humidifiers and regularly clean them to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
- Avoid extreme temperatures – Limit exposure to extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, as they can aggravate eczema symptoms. Protect your baby’s skin from harsh weather conditions by dressing appropriately and using protective clothing and hats outdoors.
- Identify and manage triggers – Identify and avoid potential triggers that can exacerbate eczema symptoms in your infant. Note the time and date of flare-ups and identify patterns that may help pinpoint triggers.
If your prevention and skin care strategies are not working or if you are not satisfied with your current eczema treatment plan, seek medical advice from a pediatric dermatologist, as some eczema treatments are only available through a dermatologist’s clinic. Combined with personalized recommendations, this is a more effective strategy for maintaining your baby’s skin.
Infant Eczema Treatment in Phoenix, AZ
As parents, eczema can be a heavy load to bear. With busy schedules and a baby suffering from eczema, you need the support of a compassionate medical professional. Samantha Casselman, DNP, CPNP-PC of Happy Skin Pediatric Dermatology is a nurse practitioner experienced in treating eczema.
In our dermatology clinic, we provide individualized care and listen to you with undivided attention. Allow us to ease your load by providing comprehensive support. Our team is highly committed to your child’s and family’s health and wellness.
For better outcomes from treatment, address the problem of eczema the moment you notice symptoms. To schedule a consultation with our pediatric dermatologist, call our pediatric dermatology clinic in Phoenix at (602) 837-3376 or use our convenient online appointment request form.
