How to care for your baby's eczema
- Eczema is most common among children
- Usually eczema appears in babies up to six months old and carries on until about five years of age before disappearing.
- You can care for your baby's eczema by remembering 5 simple tips
How can I tell if my baby has eczema?
Babies frequently acquire rashes around their face, on their cheeks and chin areas, as well as at key joint points like elbows and knees. Don’t panic! It’s a common scenario and although it can look pretty bad, it can be managed with the right care.
How can I care for my baby’s eczema?
New parents are understandably anxious when it comes down to caring for their baby, and baby’s eczema. You can always consult a dermatologist or chat to your pharmacist about your options, but for now, here are our tips:
1. Keep moisturising
It’s important to keep the skin nourished and moisturised. Apply your balm or emollient just after the bath or shower, when the skin absorbs the most.
2. Steer clear of allergens
If you know what type of eczema your baby is suffering from and what triggers it, keep away from the causes. Common culprits are scratchy wool clothing, strong or fragranced detergents and simply: dust!
3. Go fragrance free
Remember to check all skincare products to make sure they are fragrance-free. In fact, the fewer ingredients, the better!
4. Go for emollient
Adding an emollient oil to the bath can be soothing. Dermatologist Dr. Stefanie Williams (www.eudelo.com) also recommends to shorten bath times and keep the water at a mild temperature, avoiding any excesses – be it too cold or too hot.
5. Go for glycerol
When choosing your baby’s skin’s moisturiser, skip any with preservatives. Opt for a glycerol base that can help relieve itching and rough skin patches so common with eczema. Additionally, skin expert and dermatologist, Dr Justine Kluk (www.drjustinekluk.com) recommends avoiding certain products, advising “Avoid urea or lactic acid - they may irritate the skin of very young children.”
La Roche Posay: Lipikar Range
Fragrance free and suitable for babies over 3 months. The Lipikar range helps to repair the skin’s natural barrier, and soothes and reduces dryness and discomfort immediately. It respects the skin’s microbiome, and gives 48-hour hydration. This is particularly welcome, so you don’t have to reapply on a wriggling child more than once daily!