Up to one-fifth of infants may suffer from baby eczema at one point or another. It is distinguished by red patches of dry, leathery skin located on the joints of the legs and arms, as well as on its cheeks. The patches may be tender to the touch, rough, and dry. Many factors can cause baby eczema and natural skin care may help lesson its effects.
Baby eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis. It has many causes and can be hard to track down to a single factor. Heredity is a strong factor, with a child having a 50% chance of suffering outbreaks if both parents have had it in their past. Factors such as harsh soaps, synthetic fibers, new unwashed clothes, allergies to the environment as well as diets, stress, heat, wind, and sweating may all cause outbreaks. A child may start having outbreaks when it is two months old, and most outbreaks stop before the child turns four.
As with any medical condition, it is best to consult your family physician so that you may make an informed choice about treatment options. Outbreaks can be treated with topical steroid creams, antibiotics and exposure to UV light. There are other options besides treating outbreaks with prescription medicines. These alternatives may help to reduce outbreaks, without exposing your child to strong medicines. Before starting any home remedies, carefully research them to identify warnings and side effects.
Controlling the exposure to the factors may help stop eczema. Any detergents or soaps should be mild and unscented. Synthetic fiber clothing should be avoided, as natural fibers cause less outbreaks. Foods, such as dairy products, nuts, wheat and soy may be causing an allergy. This can be passed on by breastfeeding mothers, as well. Keep your infant out of wind and extreme temperatures if possible, and adjust clothing as needed to reduce sweating.
For bathing infants use mild unscented soap. Oatmeal based products have been used with some success, as well as salt water, epsom salt, and apple cider vinegar mixed in with the bath water. Limit the contact with water, by using a shower, and wash only areas that need it. Pat your child dry with clean dry towels, and do not rub affected areas.
Natural creams, Shea butter, and petroleum jelly can be used on patches to help relieve itching and redness. Check the list of ingredients and to make sure it is not too harsh for use on infants.
See your doctor before beginning any treatments. There are many cures for baby eczema and natural skin care methods may help.
Natural skin care is critical no matter what the age of the individual. Natural baby products should be the preferred option for your baby.